Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, and the Akko Fairy, a linear switch, there are distinct characteristics to consider. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is renowned for its lively and tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a poppy and clacky sound profile along with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Fairy switch is known for its refined lubrication, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience ideal for office settings. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro is more accented and bouncy, the Fairy switch is polished and muted. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
20mm spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Akko Fairy both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Fairy's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing mirrors the qualities of the Fairy's nylon top housing, with both providing a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Akko Fairy both play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a clear and resonant sound, ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Fairy provides a dull and round sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, showcasing the impact that different materials can have on the overall typing experience.
In terms of construction, the split between the top and bottom housings of a switch allows for a mix of qualities from each material. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon bottom housing of the Fairy or the V3 Cream Blue Pro, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing, like the polycarbonate or nylon top housing of these switches, affects the sound when releasing a key. By combining different housing materials in a single switch, manufacturers can create a nuanced typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko Fairy linear switch. The V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Fairy switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the V3 Cream Blue Pro, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue setting in. On the other hand, the Fairy switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for the actuation force and bottom out force desired in a keyboard.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, it can be noted that both switches offer a consistent and uniform keystroke experience. This means that whether you choose the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Fairy switch, you can expect to receive a similar tactile feedback and typing sensation due to their identical travel distances. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so choosing either one will result in similar performance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, creating a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch provides a muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office settings. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by both switches, so customization options should be considered for achieving desired results.
When it comes to the feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile experience with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. It offers a tactile sensation that is not overwhelming yet not too subtle, suitable for users who enjoy responsive switches. On the other hand, the Fairy linear switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The switch provides a light typing feel and a sound signature that is suitable for shared spaces, making it comfortable for extended use in professional environments.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Blue Pro switch excels in providing a lively, audible feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation, while the Fairy switch focuses on a quieter and smoother typing experience ideal for office settings. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound, feel, and intended usage. Depending on personal preference and typing requirements, users can achieve satisfying results with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the Akko Fairy linear switch, your decision should be based on your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a lively sound profile and creamy tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience for office settings, with a balanced medium weight and quieter sound profile, the Fairy linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so it is important to consider what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
