Akko Fairy vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko Fairy and Jwick Ginger Milk are both linear switches that offer unique advantages for different typing experiences. The Akko Fairy is praised for its refined lubrication, making it an ideal choice for office settings where a smooth typing experience is crucial. With a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, the Fairy switches are not only conducive to a quieter workspace but also comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk stands out for its soft and pastel typing experience, offering a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. While the Fairy switch is categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Ginger Milk switch is labeled as neutral and buttery. Both switches have their own unique advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Fairy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic nature that enhances clarity and resonance. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, users may prefer one over the other based on their personal typing preferences.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Akko Fairy and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches feature nylon material, which elicits a similar deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon plastic allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the identical housing material in this aspect, the overall typing experience may still vary based on other factors such as keycap material and typing technique. Users who enjoy a softer bottom-out sound and feel may appreciate the nylon bottom housing of these switches.
Overall, the choice between the Akko Fairy and Jwick Ginger Milk switches will depend on the sound profile and typing feel that users prefer. While the Fairy's nylon top housing offers a softer and fuller sound, the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound experience. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that provides a deep and resonant typing feel. Whether users prioritize sound quality, aesthetics, or typing comfort, they can find suitable options in these switches based on their individual preferences.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams, which is considered medium, while the Ginger Milk requires 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. This slight difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly heavier typing experience for the Ginger Milk switch compared to the Fairy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Fairy switch may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Ginger Milk switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, it is clear that the Fairy offers a shorter distance at 3.3 mm compared to the Ginger Milk's 3.7 mm. The Fairy switch would be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, but the slight difference in length may cater to different preferences in key feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences. The Fairy switch, however, is noted for its muted sound, which produces a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Ginger Milk switch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished and mild characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. This switch provides reduced friction and a comfortable key travel, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. While both switches offer a pleasant typing feel, the Fairy may appeal more to those looking for a refined and polished typing experience, while the Ginger Milk is ideal for those seeking a buttery and seamless feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch is best suited for those in office settings looking for a refined and comfortable typing experience with muted sound, while the Ginger Milk switch provides a soft and pastel typing experience with a buttery feel. Depending on your typing habits and desired sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, you should consider your typing environment and preferences. If you work in an office setting and prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a refined feel, the Akko Fairy switch with its medium bottom out force of 60 grams and muted sound profile would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and pastel typing experience with a silky smooth push feel and muted, snappy sound, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and buttery keystroke sensation might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, whether you prioritize comfort and balance or a unique typing experience, both switches offer their own advantages to cater to different preferences. Choose wisely based on your needs and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey!