Huano Elf vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and Akko Fairy present two appealing linear options, each with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and use cases. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also delivers a deep sound signature alongside a medium-light feel, creating a satisfying typing experience that many gamers and typists crave. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switches are specially designed for office environments, characterized by a refined, factory-applied lubrication that ensures a buttery-smooth keystroke. With a medium weight that strikes a delicate balance between resistance and comfort, these switches reduce fatigue during long typing sessions while maintaining a discreet noise level, ideal for professional settings. Both switches offer unique advantages, catering to different priorities whether one seeks an immersive auditory experience or a quiet, comfortable typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Akko Fairy switches, it is clear that both utilize nylon in their bottom housing, providing a consistent sound profile characteristic of this material. The nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in deeper and fuller acoustics when typing. This similarity ensures that regardless of the switch’s branding, the user experience regarding bottom-out sounds will remain comparable due to the sound-dampening properties inherent in nylon. Consequently, both the Elf and Fairy switches can be expected to deliver a similar auditory experience when considering their bottom housings.
However, the top housings distinguish the two switches significantly. The Huano Elf utilizes POK material, known for its exceptional durability and lower coefficient of friction compared to conventional materials like nylon. POK’s properties allow for a smoother feel during key presses and more resilient switches, thus contributing to longevity and tactile response. In contrast, the Akko Fairy's top housing remains consistently nylon-based, which, while offering a softer feel, does not possess the same durability and smoothness as the POK material. This means that the overall typing experience with the Elf will typically be characterized by a snappier, more responsive action, while the Fairy will provide a softer, more cushioned touch.
In terms of the overall user experience, the interaction between the dissimilar top housings and uniform bottom housings means that while both switches will provide a similar depth and roundness to sound due to their nylon bottoms, the feel and responsiveness during typing will vary greatly. The Huano Elf will appeal to those who prioritize performance and durability, while the Akko Fairy will cater to users seeking a more muted and relaxed typing experience. This striking contrast in top housing materials illustrates how different choices can directly affect not just feel but also the auditory and tactile sensations that users derive from their keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces become evident. The Huano Elf requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, which can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, as it demands less effort from the fingers. However, its bottom out force is not specified, making it unclear how it would feel when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Akko Fairy has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, requiring more effort to register a keystroke. Additionally, its bottom out force is established at 60 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when the switch is fully depressed. Thus, the Akko Fairy provides a more substantial typing experience, favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel. In summary, the Elf is the lighter option, ideal for ease of use, while the Fairy is heavier and may be preferred by typists seeking a more robust bottoming out experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, the Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Fairy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch with a more responsive feel, the Akko Fairy would be the better option due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses that some gamers prefer. However, if you're someone who enjoys a more substantial and hearty depth in your key presses, the Huano Elf’s travel distance provides that fuller experience, making it the longer option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or satisfaction in key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf linear switch creates a deeper sound signature that offers a satisfying auditory experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more engaging sonic profile while they type. Conversely, the Akko Fairy linear switch is designed to produce a much more muted sound. This is ideal for office environments or shared spaces, where minimizing noise is appreciated. The Fairy’s sound is neutral, making it versatile enough for various settings. Both switches will sound different depending on the keyboard and keycap combinations used, but the Elf’s deeper tones contrast sharply with the Fairy’s more subdued profile.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf switch provides a medium-light actuation force which creates a pleasant typing experience; it strikes a balance between ease of use and tactile feedback that can be enjoyable for typists who prefer a bit of resistance without being taxing. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch features a polished feel due to its refined, factory-applied lubrication, resulting in a smooth key travel that enhances comfort for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Fairy switch is characterized by its mild and subtle nature, providing gentle resistance that is accessible to users of all experience levels. While the Elf offers a more engaging typing experience, the Fairy emphasizes comfort and a smooth, efficient action.
Overall, both the Huano Elf and Akko Fairy linear switches serve distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Elf is favored for its deeper sound and engaging feel, making it a suitable choice for users seeking a more tactile experience, while the Fairy excels in quieter environments with its muted acoustics and polished smoothness, catering to those who prioritize comfort and a serene typing ambiance. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience or a subtle and refined one.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Elf and Akko Fairy linear switches, your decision should ultimately hinge on your intended use. If you prefer a light and satisfying typing experience with enhanced acoustics for a more immersive sound, the Elf switch may be your best choice, particularly if your setup leans towards a more gaming-focused environment or if you're a typing enthusiast who appreciates a deeper auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that excels in a professional setting, characterized by smooth, polished keypresses and a muted sound profile, the Akko Fairy switch would serve you well. Its 60-gram bottom-out force strikes a balance that minimizes fatigue during extended typing sessions while ensuring a quieter workspace, making it ideal for office use. Ultimately, consider your environment and typing preferences to make the most informed selection—whether it's the immersive feedback of the Elf or the refined experience of the Fairy.
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