Dareu Aqua vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Akko Fairy both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, is distinguished by its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy, also a linear switch, stands out for its refined, factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth typing experience, making it an ideal choice for office settings. The Fairy switch strikes a perfect balance with its medium weight, offering enough resistance for a satisfying press without causing fatigue. While the Aqua switch may be favored for its distinct sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the Fairy switch excels in creating a quieter workspace and comfortable typing experience for extended use. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Akko Fairy both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Aqua featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Fairy has a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Fairy produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a variety of sound profiles depending on the housing material used.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Aqua and the Akko Fairy utilize nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics allows for a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and tactile feedback when typing, highlighting the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience.
While the housing materials differ between the top and bottom of the Dareu Aqua and the Akko Fairy switches, each material brings its own qualities to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a combination of sharp, crisp sounds from the polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua, and deep, full sounds from the nylon bottom housing of both switches. Whether you prefer a stiffer plastic for a clear sound or a softer plastic for a fuller sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is influenced by the housing materials used.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Akko Fairy linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Aqua switch may be more preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Fairy switch has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, since the bottom out force for the Aqua switch is not available, it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of overall typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Aqua switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Fairy switch, making it the longer option of the two. The Aqua switch, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional feel, while the Fairy switch offers a shallower 3.3 mm travel distance which may appeal to those seeking a faster response time. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Aqua switch providing a more deliberate key press and the Fairy switch offering a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a unique and distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, ideal for quieter office environments and all-around use. While the Aqua switch delivers a more attention-grabbing sound with its chirpy and clacky nature, the Fairy switch provides a more subtle and calming typing experience with its muted sound profile. The choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and the desired sound ambiance in your workspace.
In regard to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering minimal resistance and light actuation force for effortless typing. Conversely, the Akko Fairy linear switch boasts a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, providing a smooth and refined keypress with reduced friction. While the Aqua switch caters to those seeking a low-impact and comfortable typing feel, the Fairy switch appeals to users looking for a more polished and gentle typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations that cater to different typing preferences and comfort levels.
Taking all the available information into account, the Dareu Aqua linear switch excels in providing a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature along with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch stands out for its muted and neutral sound profile, alongside a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound uniqueness and light actuation force or seek a quieter, refined typing experience with smoother key travel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to various preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and Akko Fairy linear switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you value a factory-lubricated, medium-weight switch that offers a smooth typing experience and minimal noise, the Akko Fairy switch would be more suitable, especially for office settings. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lighter touch and distinctive sound or a balanced, comfortable typing experience for extended use.
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