Akko Fairy vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and TTC Flame Red both stand out as popular linear options with their own unique characteristics. The Akko Fairy switches are lauded for their refined, factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth typing experience, making them ideal for office settings. With a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, they are not only conducive to a quieter workspace but also comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switches are best known for their dazzling light diffuser, making them perfect for those who prefer backlit, RGB keyboards. While typing on them, users can feel a weighty smoothness and enjoy a clacky sound profile. Both switches offer different strengths that cater to specific preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the TTC Flame Red, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing on them, providing a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a quieter switch option.
While the top and bottom housings of the Fairy and Flame Red switches are both made of nylon, the impact of each housing material differs in how it influences the typing experience. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, affecting the overall typing experience when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound emitted when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch as a whole.
Overall, the similarities in the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and TTC Flame Red switches result in a comparable typing experience for users. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile attributed to the nylon material used in their top and bottom housings. This consistency in material choice ensures that users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing on either switch, making them both reliable options for those seeking a quiet and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch both fall within the medium weight category when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Flame Red's 45 grams, while the Fairy also has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Flame Red's 54 grams. This means that the Fairy will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience overall. However, both switches offer a similar feel due to their comparable weights, making them suitable options for those who prefer a medium to medium-light key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and desired weight for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is evident that the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Flame Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy's 3.3 mm travel distance is ideal for individuals looking for a faster response time, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Flame Red's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper actuation, which some may find more satisfying due to its hearty depth. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose depends on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial keypress feel. Both options offer different benefits based on their specific travel distances, catering to various user preferences.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Akko Fairy and TTC Flame Red linear switches offer a neutral experience with a moderate sound profile. The Fairy switch produces a muted sound, ideal for creating a quiet typing environment suitable for professional settings. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch provides a clacky sound with a weighty smoothness, making it a visually stunning choice for RGB backlit keyboards. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. This results in reduced friction and comfortable key travel, making it suitable for extended use in shared spaces. Similarly, the Flame Red switch is also described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and approachable feel for users, ensuring a satisfying typing experience without causing fatigue.
Overall, whether you choose the Akko Fairy or TTC Flame Red linear switch, you can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with different sound profiles to suit various preferences. The Fairy switch is best suited for office settings with its muted sound and polished feel, while the Flame Red switch stands out visually with its RGB compatibility and weighty smoothness. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced combination of sound and feel that cater to different user needs, providing a versatile choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience for office tasks, the Fairy switch is the ideal choice with its medium bottom out force and factory-lubricated design. On the other hand, if you value a visually stunning and colorful keyboard setup with a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, the Flame Red switch with its lower bottom out force and light diffuser is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences and needs, whether it be for work or personal use.
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