Gateron Beer vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Beer and the Akko Fairy. The Gateron Beer switch is a tactile switch that evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its mesmerizing translucent green design. It offers a refreshingly lightweight feel with a stepped tactility that provides a subtler typing experience. Additionally, it has a characteristic clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch is a linear switch that is ideal for office settings due to its refined, factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth typing experience. It has a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance, offering enough resistance for a satisfying press without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for creating a quieter workspace and comfortable for extended use throughout the day. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and the Akko Fairy both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Beer featuring polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Fairy uses nylon for both components. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, making it ideal for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with this material. Despite these differences, both materials excel in enhancing the overall sound experience of the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Beer switch allows for the RGB lighting to shine through brightly, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Meanwhile, the opaque nature of nylon in the Fairy switch gives off a more classic and subtle look that may appeal to those looking for a more understated design. While the overall appearance of the switches may differ due to the housing materials used, both the Beer and the Fairy offer a unique visual appeal that caters to different preferences in terms of style.
One key factor to consider when comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Akko Fairy is how they affect the sound and feel of the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate material in the Beer switch will contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly when letting go of a key. On the other hand, the softer nylon material in the Fairy switch will create a more rounded and duller sound, enhancing the typing experience when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics when selecting a switch for a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, we see that the Beer is lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Fairy is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Beer offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a gentler push and longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Fairy provides a more substantial typing feel, ideal for those who enjoy a stronger push and a more pronounced keystroke. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences in typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Beer switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Fairy switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular as they offer faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press feel, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive and satisfying clacky sound when pressed, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch produces a muted sound, making it a more suitable option for quieter work environments. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Fairy switch would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy the sharp and clacky sound of a mechanical keyboard, the Beer switch would be a more appealing option.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses for a light and effortless typing experience. The stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a subtle feel, allowing for a more gentle typing experience without causing finger fatigue. Conversely, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as polished and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Fairy switch's subtle resistance provides a comfortable typing feel without being overly pronounced, making it suitable for most users.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel of both switches, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is best suited for those who appreciate a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Akko Fairy linear switch is ideal for users looking for a quieter and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience regardless of which option you choose.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force, a unique clacky sound, and a stepped tactility, the Beer switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth typing experience with a moderate weight, factory-applied lubrication, and a quieter sound profile, the Fairy switch might be more suitable for your daily professional tasks in an office setting. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and environment. Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
