Weather Comparison
Penang vs Langkawi
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Penang vs Langkawi
| Metric | Penang | Langkawi | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 30°C (86°F) | 30°C (86°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 26°C (79°F) | 26°C (79°F) | Tie |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 27 days | 26 days▲ | Langkawi |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 237 mm | 232 mm▲ | Langkawi |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 10h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 82% | 82% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 8 | 8 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 9 km/h▲ | 13 km/h | Penang |
Which City is Better in May?
Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Langkawi edges ahead as the better destination in May. Langkawi offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 26 rain days, while Penang sees 10 sunshine hours and 27 rain days.
Penang can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Langkawi runs hot at 30°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Langkawi is the stronger choice in May.
Temperature Comparison in May
Penang reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 26°C (79°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Langkawi averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Penang receives approximately 237 mm of rainfall across 27 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Langkawi sees 232 mm over 26 rain days. That makes Langkawi the drier option by 1 rain day and 5 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.
What to Pack: Penang vs Langkawi
Packing for Penang in May
Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 27 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Packing for Langkawi in May
Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 26 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.
Year-Round Comparison: Penang vs Langkawi
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Penang | Langkawi | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 29°C | 15d | 31°C | 8d |
| Feb | 30°C | 16d | 32°C | 8d |
| Mar | 30°C | 23d | 32°C | 16d |
| Apr | 30°C | 28d | 31°C | 24d |
| May | 30°C | 27d | 30°C | 26d |
| Jun | 30°C | 22d | 30°C | 22d |
| Jul | 30°C | 21d | 29°C | 23d |
| Aug | 30°C | 24d | 29°C | 24d |
| Sep | 29°C | 26d | 29°C | 26d |
| Oct | 29°C | 29d | 29°C | 28d |
| Nov | 29°C | 27d | 29°C | 25d |
| Dec | 29°C | 21d | 29°C | 15d |
Penang Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Langkawi Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities