KTT Darling vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and Akko Fairy mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options catering to different preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Akko Fairy linear switches are known for their factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth typing experience, making them ideal for office settings with their polished and muted characteristics. While the Darling offers a bouncy and clacky feel with high-pitched feedback, the Fairy provides a more subtle and neutral typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you determine the best fit for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Akko Fairy differ in terms of the top housing. The Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing effect. On the other hand, the Fairy utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling offers a crisper sound compared to the Fairy's nylon top housing.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the KTT Darling and the Akko Fairy feature nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Whether typing on the Darling or the Fairy, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the overall sound profile. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, showcasing the versatility and effectiveness of this material in enhancing the typing experience on both keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Darling and the Akko Fairy significantly impacts the sound profile and typing experience of each keyboard. While the Darling's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Fairy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, both keyboards share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the Darling or the softer nylon of the Fairy, both keyboards offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, we can see that the Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Fairy's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams while the Fairy needs 60 grams. This means that the Darling is lighter in terms of actuation force, but heavier when it comes to bottom out force than the Fairy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Darling, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Fairy. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium level of force and can provide similar results in terms of typing experience when considering the actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Darling switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Fairy switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to users who prioritize quick key actuation. Overall, while the Darling switch has a slightly longer travel distance, the difference between the two is minimal and both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant experience, providing a sharp, crisp sound with each keystroke. This creates an engaging auditory feedback that some users may find satisfying and immersive. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, making it a more suitable choice for quiet office environments or shared spaces where noise level is a concern. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the vibrant sound of the Darling or the subtle sound of the Fairy to enhance their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by its bouncy sensation, offering a springy and elastic feedback with each key press. This bounciness adds a lively feel to typing, providing users with a responsive and dynamic experience. In contrast, 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 mild characteristics of the Fairy switch make it approachable for a wide range of users, providing a comfortable and gentle typing feel suitable for extended use.
Overall, the KTT Darling and Akko Fairy linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and environments. Users who enjoy a sharp, resonant sound and a bouncy, substantial feel may opt for the Darling switch, while those seeking a muted, neutral sound and a polished, mild feel may prefer the Fairy switch. Both switches provide unique typing experiences that can enhance productivity and comfort depending on individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user's typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences and needs. If you enjoy a typing experience that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a resonant, high-pitched sound, the Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, comfortable typing experience with a medium weight that is perfect for extended use in office settings, the Fairy switch from Akko might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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