Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro and the Akko Fairy mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is perfect for budget-conscious enthusiasts who enjoy a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth tactile feel. On the other hand, the Fairy switches are ideal for office settings, offering a refined typing experience with factory-applied lubrication for a smoother operation. While the Cream Yellow Pro is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished', the Fairy is characterized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko Fairy have nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature compared to harder plastics. However, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Fairy's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Overall, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while their top housings have different impacts on the overall sound produced.
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko Fairy showcase the different qualities of nylon and polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housings in both switches absorb more sound, creating a fuller and deeper sound experience. This contrasts with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound that is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The Fairy's nylon top housing offers a rounder and duller sound profile when compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing, showcasing the impact that housing material can have on the overall sound profile of a switch.
While the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko Fairy both feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a similar deep and full sound profile, their top housings showcase the differences between nylon and polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro creates a clear and resonant sound profile with a sharper, higher-pitched quality, suitable for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Fairy's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound experience. Despite the differences in top housing material, both switches provide a unique sound profile that showcases the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equally medium in terms of weight. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes and bottoming out. The actuation force is the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures pressing all the way down. Some prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others favor heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko Fairy offer a balanced weight that suits a variety of preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the key travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent feel and experience for users. Whether you choose the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the Fairy, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Yellow Pro linear switch produces a poppy, clacky sound that adds a satisfying auditory experience to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings or shared spaces. When considering sound quality, it is important to note that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced by the switches.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a feathery and bouncy sensation, enhancing the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch adds to the smoothness and comfort during typing sessions. Conversely, the Akko Fairy switch boasts a polished and mild feel, striking a balance between gentle resistance and light typing feel. The subtle characteristics of the switch make it suitable for most users, ensuring a comfortable typing experience without causing fatigue.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch stands out for its vibrant sound profile and easy-to-press feel, making it a great choice for those looking for a tactile and auditory typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch excels in providing a muted sound and polished feel, ideal for professional environments where quietness is essential. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately deliver a satisfactory typing experience with their respective characteristics. Whether choosing the Cream Yellow Pro or Fairy switch, users can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a satisfying tactile feel and produces a poppy, clacky sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you value a smoother typing experience with factory-applied lubrication for enhanced comfort, especially in office settings where a quieter workspace is desired, the Akko Fairy switch would be more suitable. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium weight that strikes a good balance between satisfying keypresses and long-term comfort. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the auditory experience and tactile feel of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro or the smoothness and comfort of the Fairy switch.
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