Akko Fairy vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, both of which are linear switches. The Akko Fairy is praised for its smooth typing experience, thanks to its factory-applied lubrication, making it an ideal choice for office settings. With a medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, the Fairy switch is perfect for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its premium quality at a budget-friendly price, with a heavier actuation and bottom-out force for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. While the Fairy switch is described as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Neutral', the G Pro 3.0 Black is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, it is evident that both switches use top housings made of unique materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Fairy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp, known for its satisfying and clacky sound profile. While both materials offer diverse sound experiences, the Fairy emphasizes a softer and deeper tone, while the G Pro delivers a sharper and more defined sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black showcase distinct characteristics that influence the switches' overall sound. The Fairy's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic nature. In comparison, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a unique, deep, and relatively muted sound that sets it apart from the Fairy. These differences in bottom housing materials impact the switches' bottom-out sound and feel, with the Fairy offering a rounder tone contrasted against the G Pro's deeper and more muted sound experience.
Overall, while the Akko Fairy and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black feature different housing materials for their top and bottom parts, each brings its own unique sound profile to the switches. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings result in distinct tactile experiences when typing on these switches. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material impacts the sound released when a key is released. Despite their differences, both switches provide satisfying typing experiences due to the careful selection of housing materials that contribute to their distinctive sound profiles.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black's 60 grams. This means that the Fairy switch requires less force to initiate a keystroke, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams, making the latter switch slightly heavier. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, offering a good balance between responsiveness and durability. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Akko Fairy. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Fairy's shorter 3.3mm travel distance offers a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a deeper or quicker key press feel.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted tone, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. This makes it a great choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when typing. While the Fairy switch offers a more neutral sound profile suitable for various environments, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a more vibrant and pronounced sound that may appeal to those looking for a more dynamic typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Fairy switch is characterized by its polished and mild qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. The subtle feel of the Fairy switch makes it suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced typists. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy and silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. The medium-heavy feel of the G Pro 3.0 Black switch appeals to users who prefer a more substantial typing feedback.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch is best suited for those looking for a quieter and more subtle typing experience, making it ideal for office use. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch caters to users who prefer a more dynamic and pronounced sound with a creamy and silky typing feel. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that aligns with their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, you should take into account your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office settings, offers a smooth typing experience, and strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, the Akko Fairy switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a more substantive typing experience, with a heavier bottom-out force and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on factors such as your typing style, desired sound profile, and overall typing feel preference.
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