Akko Fairy vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, another linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Fairy switches from Akko are perfect for office settings, with their factory-applied lubrication providing a smooth typing experience and medium weight offering a balance between resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro Red is budget-friendly and designed for a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force. Additionally, the G Pro Red allows for brighter RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience with its medium-high pitch. While both switches fall in the 'Mild' and 'Neutral' categories, the Fairy switch is more 'Muted' and 'Subtle' compared to the G Pro Red, which is more 'Creamy' and 'Polished'. 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
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, we can see distinct differences in their compositions and resulting sound profiles. The Fairy utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the Fairy provides a more muted typing experience compared to the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches adds to the overall typing experience by creating a deeper sound and providing a softer feel when pressing down on the keys.
While the top housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red differ in composition and resulting sound profiles, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches provides a commonality in the typing experience. The differences in sound characteristics between the softer nylon top housing of the Fairy and the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red may affect the overall typing feel and sound profile. However, the shared nylon bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, with a softer feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that the Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force at 50 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red at 45 grams. Both switches have a medium to light bottom out force, with the Fairy requiring 60 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Red needing 50 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly more substantial typing experience with the Fairy, while the lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Red may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko Fairy. The shorter travel distance of the Akko Fairy may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Red may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific feel that you are looking for in your keyboard. Both switches offer unique benefits, and using either one will result in a comfortable typing experience tailored to individual 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments, whether you are working in an office setting or typing at home. The Fairy switch offers a muted sound compared to regular switches, which can be beneficial for creating a quieter workspace. On the other hand, the G Pro Red switch provides a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice of board and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle. This indicates that the switch offers a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. The Gateron G Pro Red switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. This suggests that the G Pro Red switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall within the mild and polished categories, offering a middle-ground typing feel that is approachable to most users.
Taking all the available information into account, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch provide a comfortable typing experience with a moderate actuation force. The Fairy switch is favored for its muted sound and polished feel, making it ideal for office settings, while the G Pro Red switch offers a satisfying auditory experience and a creamy, silky feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations, as well as how they complement your overall typing experience. Given their similarities in terms of sound and feel, you can expect to achieve comparable results with either switch as they both offer a reliable and balanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, you should consider the specific needs of your typing environment. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office settings with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, factory-applied lubrication for a smooth typing experience, and a muted sound profile, the Akko Fairy switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a budget-friendly option with a medium-light actuation force, and a creamy typing feel with vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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