HMX 1989 vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical switches for your keyboard, the HMX 1989 and the Akko Fairy are both excellent linear options, each catering to different preferences and use cases. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep and thocky sound profile, offers a nostalgic touch that can enhance the gaming experience, making it a delightful choice for enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback. Conversely, the Akko Fairy switches excel in office environments, thanks to their factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth and quiet typing experience, ideal for maintaining focus during long hours of work. With a medium weight that provides just the right amount of resistance, the Fairy strikes a balance between comfort and performance, reducing fatigue while promoting productivity. While both switches have their unique strengths, they ultimately cater to different needs—whether you're a gamer seeking robust feedback or a professional in need of a refined typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Akko Fairy, it is notable that both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon effectively absorbs sound due to its softer plastic composition. Consequently, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience with a rounded sound on the bottoming out moment. In contrast, the top housing materials diverge—a significant factor in how sound is produced upon releasing a key. The HMX 1989 employs polycarbonate for its top housing, lending a sharper, higher-pitched resonance due to the material's stiffness. In contrast, the Akko Fairy utilizes nylon, which contributes to a more muted and softer sound profile upon key release.
The difference in the top housing materials fundamentally alters the auditory experience of the two switches. The polycarbonate top of the HMX 1989 enhances the clarity and brightness of the sound when a key is released, making it particularly well-suited for users who value a crisp auditory feedback in their typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Akko Fairy, while allowing for a consistent deeper sound from the nylon bottom, will yield a rounder and softer sound when the keys are actuated. This characteristic reinforces the unique tonal qualities of each switch, ensuring that users experience distinct sounds depending on their choice of housing material.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the HMX 1989 and the Akko Fairy leads to unique sound profiles, despite both switches sharing nylon in their bottom housing. Users looking for a crisper sound and a more pronounced key release will likely prefer the HMX 1989, while those who favor a mellow, subdued typing experience will find the Akko Fairy's nylon configuration more appealing. By understanding how these materials affect sound delivery and tactile feedback, potential switch users can better match their preferences with the right keyboard switches, ultimately influencing their overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The HMX 1989 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to those who favor a more effortless typing experience suitable for long hours of use, such as in office work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Akko Fairy switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, giving it a more substantial feel that those who prefer a firmer key press might appreciate. Regarding bottom out forces, the HMX 1989 weighs in at 53 grams, while the Akko Fairy has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making the Fairy switch heavier overall. While both switches have their unique attributes, those seeking a lighter typing experience might gravitate toward the HMX 1989, while individuals desiring a stronger push would likely favor the Akko Fairy.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, the HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference means that users of the 1989 switch will experience a more substantial key press, providing a traditional feel that many prefer for its depth and feedback. In contrast, the Akko Fairy, with its reduced travel distance, caters to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, making it an ideal choice for speed-oriented tasks. Therefore, if you favor a more pronounced key press, the HMX 1989 would be your preference, whereas the Akko Fairy would be better suited for those who appreciate a snappier feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by a notably deeper and thockier profile, which provides a rich auditory sensation that is often favored by enthusiasts seeking a more immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Fairy linear switch is designed to minimize noise, offering a muted sound signature that makes it a fitting choice for office environments. The Fairy's sound is neutral, which ensures it doesn't disrupt the ambiance of shared spaces, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. Despite the differences, the overall sound experience can still be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch stands out for its robust and engaging typing experience, known for delivering a sensory feedback that appeals to those who enjoy a substantial key press. Meanwhile, the Akko Fairy linear switches are celebrated for their polished and mild qualities. The factory-applied lubrication lends a smooth and refined feel, while the subtle resistance provides a gentle typing experience, allowing for comfortable use without fatigue. This combination makes the Fairy switches incredibly approachable, aligning well with typical typing demands in diverse environments.
In conclusion, while the HMX 1989 linear switch offers a thocky and rich sound with a more pronounced tactile response, the Akko Fairy linear switch prioritizes a muted sound and a smoother, more refined typing experience. Both switches provide unique attributes that cater to different preferences, and while they do differ in sound and feel, either option can yield satisfying results depending on the user's environment and typing needs. Whether you prefer a more resonant key press or a softer, more subdued sound, both switches can contribute positively to your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch depends largely on your personal use case and environment. If you prefer a switch that offers a deeper, more pronounced thock sound with a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, the 1989 could be your ideal companion, especially if you're a gaming enthusiast seeking that immersive auditory feedback while playing. On the other hand, if you’re more inclined towards a smooth, subtle typing experience suitable for both home and office settings, the Akko Fairy switch should be your go-to. With a bottom-out force of 60 grams, it strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, making it perfect for long work sessions where a muted sound profile aligns well with a professional atmosphere. Ultimately, if you value auditory feedback and a more tactile experience, choose the HMX 1989; however, if you prioritize a polished, refined typing experience in shared spaces, the Akko Fairy is the switch for you.
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