KTT Ash Gray vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko Fairy stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Ash Gray, a tactile switch, is praised for its tactile response that strikes a balance between being substantial and unobtrusive. It offers a light touch with a crisp actuation, providing a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy, a linear switch, boasts factory-applied lubrication for a smooth typing experience, making it a perfect choice for office settings. Its medium weight offers enough resistance for a satisfying press without causing fatigue, catering to a quieter workspace and comfortable 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko Fairy, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared feature results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches, as nylon's softness allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Ash Gray uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Fairy features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate in the Ash Gray.
The difference in top housing materials between the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko Fairy leads to distinct sound profiles when typing on these switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray produces a clear and resonant sound, enhancing its compatibility with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Fairy results in a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing a different typing experience. While the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, the split between the two materials in the top and bottom housings highlights the impact each material has on the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Ash Gray and the Akko Fairy plays a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. The differences in material – polycarbonate and nylon for the top housing – result in distinct auditory experiences for users. However, the shared nylon material for the bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing on both switches. Ultimately, whether opting for the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Ash Gray or the fuller sound of the nylon top housing in the Fairy, users can expect high-quality typing experiences with unique auditory characteristics.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Akko Fairy linear switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams while the Fairy needs 60 grams, making the Fairy the heavier option in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. For those looking for a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of use, the Ash Gray may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Fairy would be the better option. Ultimately, understanding one's preference for actuation and bottom out forces is crucial in choosing the right switch for a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Fairy's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly more pronounced feel when typing on the Ash Gray switch compared to the Fairy switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress may opt for the Ash Gray, while those who prefer a slightly shallower keypress may prefer the Fairy.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is considered neutral, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as muted, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings or shared spaces. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, but the Fairy switch takes it a step further with its muted sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch is noted for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Alternatively, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience thanks to factory-applied lubrication. This ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it comfortable for extended use.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. The Ash Gray switch provides a tactile response with a light touch and crisp actuation, suitable for those looking for a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is tailored for office settings, offering a smooth typing experience with factory-applied lubrication and a muted sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a tactile switch with a light touch and subtle tactile feedback, the Ash Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a linear switch that is smooth, quiet, and comfortable for extended use, the Fairy switch could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the Ash Gray might be more suitable. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a muted sound and a polished, refined feel, the Fairy switch may be the better fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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