TTC Bluish White vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch. The Bluish White switch is known for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience and snappy sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch is praised for its refined lubrication and medium weight, offering a smooth and comfortable typing experience that is perfect for office settings and extended use. Ultimately, the Bluish White switch is ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience, while the Akko Fairy switch is better suited for those who prioritize a smooth and comfortable 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Akko Fairy switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Fairy utilizes a nylon top housing, which gives a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White may provide a clearer and more resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the Fairy offers a more absorbent and rounder sound quality.
Interestingly, both the Bluish White and the Akko Fairy switches use nylon for their bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different top housing materials, the switches share the benefits of nylon in their bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound experience when typing on either switch. The qualities provided by the nylon bottom housing are impactful on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, contributing to a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact its sound profile and feel. While the polycarbonate top housing of the TTC Bluish White offers a crisper and more resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the Akko Fairy provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches benefit from the absorbent and round sound quality of nylon in their bottom housing. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Bluish White or a deeper tone with the Fairy, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Fairy switch's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Bluish White requires 50 grams, while the Fairy necessitates 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Bluish White switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the Fairy switch. In both cases, the actuation and bottom out forces contribute to the overall typing feel, allowing users to customize their keyboard experience to their preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which can be preferred by gamers for quicker response times. The Bluish White switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Fairy switch. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so the overall feel when using either switch will be fairly similar in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted sound, producing a softer and quieter typing experience, making it ideal for office settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The neutral sound profile of the Fairy switch, which is moderate in both actuation force requirement and sound level, also makes it suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Bluish White is described as offering a buttery, mild, and stepped typing experience. This indicates a smooth, gentle keystroke with two stages of tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and approachable typing feel. Additionally, the switches have a subtle and polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch shares similar characteristics with a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for a comfortable typing session.
Overall, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch provide satisfying and comfortable typing experiences, each with its unique sound and feel qualities. While the Bluish White offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile, along with a buttery and stepped typing feel, the Fairy switch provides a muted sound and a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience. Whether you prefer a more tactile sound or a smoother typing feel, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience suitable for different preferences and environments. Regardless of choice, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, you should consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile and a light bottom out force, the Bluish White is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth typing experience with refined lubrication, a medium bottom out force for satisfying presses without fatigue, and a switch that is conducive to a quieter workspace and extended use, the Akko Fairy is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prefer a light, tactile experience or a medium, linear feel. Consider your typing habits, environment, and personal preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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