Akko Fairy vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct factors to consider. The Akko Fairy is renowned for its smooth and refined typing experience, perfect for office settings with its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its budget-friendly nature and unique clacky sound profile, offering a bouncy typing feel. While the Fairy leans towards a polished, muted, and subtle typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow boasts a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow differ in terms of the material used for both the top and bottom housing. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow also differ. The Akko Fairy's nylon housing is not translucent, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing is transparent, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Yellow a more visually appealing option for users who prioritize customizable lighting effects. However, both switches offer a unique sound profile based on their housing materials, with the Fairy providing a duller and rounder sound and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offering a clearer and more resonant sound.
Overall, while the Akko Fairy and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both offer distinct sound profiles. The nylon housing of the Fairy creates a deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow produces a crisper sound. Despite these differences, both switches effectively utilize the properties of their housing materials to enhance the typing experience for users, whether they prefer a softer and fuller sound or a sharper and more resonant sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Fairy has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, which has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Fairy switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Akko Fairy would be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Fairy switch offers a quicker response time compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the Akko Fairy switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Akko Fairy linear switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it perfect for office settings where a quieter typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch produces a higher-pitched and resonant sound, which may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper and crisper auditory experience. When it comes to feel, both switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The Fairy switch is noted for its mild and subtle feel, providing a comfortable typing sensation without being too pronounced. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy, offering a buttery and smooth typing experience that feels like effortless gliding across the keys.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Fairy switch is ideal for a quieter workspace with its muted sound and comfortable, medium-weight feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile along with a creamy and smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for an enhanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, consider the environment and typing preferences that best suit your needs. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings with its smooth typing experience, medium weight, and muted sound profile, the Akko Fairy linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly option with a higher pitched sound profile and a more bouncy typing feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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