Kailh Box Navy vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Kailh Box Navy and the Akko Fairy, two switches with distinct characteristics. The Box Navy is ideal for those seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Fairy switches from Akko are perfect for office settings, offering a smooth typing experience with a medium weight that strikes a balance between satisfying press and comfort 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Akko Fairy, it is clear that they both have distinct characteristics. The Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the material. On the other hand, the Fairy's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While the polycarbonate housing of the Box Navy is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the nylon housing of the Fairy is a classic material known for its sound-absorbing qualities.
When it comes to the bottom housings of the switches, both the Box Navy and the Fairy utilize nylon material. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon tends to create a duller and rounder sound by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel experienced when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, while the top housings of the Kailh Box Navy and the Akko Fairy differ in material – polycarbonate for the Box Navy and nylon for the Fairy – both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Fairy creates a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches enhances the overall sound experience by absorbing more sound to produce a rounder sound profile. In essence, despite the differences in materials used for the housings, each switch offers its own distinct typing experience based on the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottom out. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, making it a heavier option compared to the Fairy, which has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Fairy switch is lighter in both aspects, which may appeal to users looking for a smoother typing experience or gamers who prefer a faster response time. On the other hand, the Box Navy is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Fairy switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can offer a faster response time during gameplay. On the other hand, the Box Navy switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a high-pitched and sharp sound profile reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch provides a muted and neutral sound, which is softer and quieter, making it ideal for office environments. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Box Navy being more immersive and intense, while the Fairy creates a more subdued and professional typing atmosphere. The choice between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a crisp and crunchy sound or a quiet and refined typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch delivers sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feedback with a prominent and crisp tactile bump, creating a highly tactile and engaging typing sensation. In contrast, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, with a smooth and refined key travel that reduces friction and provides a gentle resistance for comfortable extended use. The Box Navy switch emphasizes a strong and reactive feel, requiring more force to actuate, while the Fairy switch focuses on a gentle and approachable typing feel that is suitable for most users. Whether you prefer a stiff and intense tactile feedback or a smooth and gentle typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing comfort.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch present contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and usage scenarios. The Box Navy excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound with sharp and stiff tactile feedback, ideal for those seeking a vintage and intense typing experience. On the other hand, the Fairy offers a muted and polished sound with a mild and subtle typing feel, perfect for professional settings and extended use. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize sound intensity and tactile feedback or a quiet and smooth typing experience, ensuring that you get a satisfying and comfortable typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy typing experience with a nostalgic sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience that is suitable for office settings, the Akko Fairy linear switch with its moderate actuation force and refined lubrication would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences, so make your choice based on what suits you best.
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