Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Glory Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Fairy and Gateron Glory Yellow are two compelling linear options that cater to different preferences and environments. The Akko Fairy switches are ideal for office use, renowned for their refined, factory-applied lubrication, which provides a notably smooth and muted typing experience. With a medium weight that balances resistance and ease of press, these switches are designed to minimize fatigue during long typing sessions while promoting a quieter workspace. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches, being the heavier option in the Glory lineup, deliver a satisfying keystroke with an enjoyable travel distance, making them perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced feel in their typing experience. While both switches excel in providing a smooth linear action, their distinct characteristics make them suitable for varying user 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Glory Yellow feature nylon as their primary housing material, encompassing both the top and bottom components. This choice of material results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a fuller and deeper auditory experience. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, allow the switches to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, which contributes to a muted and rounded acoustic ambiance. Consequently, users can expect a harmonious typing experience from either switch, making them well-suited for environments where noise reduction is desired.
Despite the similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, one can consider the design nuances and other potential factors influencing the overall performance of the Akko Fairy and Gateron Glory Yellow. Both switches might have slightly different designs or internal structures that could affect aspects like the feel of the keypress or the actuation force. It’s worth noting that while nylon generally provides a similar auditory experience, variations in the weight and construction of the switch itself could lead to subtly distinct performance characteristics that are unique to each model.
Ultimately, users can achieve comparable results when using the Akko Fairy and Gateron Glory Yellow due to their shared nylon housing composition. Whether one chooses to type on the Fairy or the Glory Yellow, the qualities imparted by nylon will ensure a smooth and mellow sound profile that is less likely to be harsh or jarring. This makes both switches appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who value sound dampening in their typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, which allows for a similar typing experience in terms of how much pressure is needed to register a keystroke. This commonality means users looking for a lighter touch while typing or gaming may find both switches equally accommodating for long sessions. However, the bottom out force presents a difference: the Akko Fairy has a clear specification of 60 grams for this measurement, indicating a medium resistance when bottoming out. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Gateron Glory Yellow is unknown, leading to uncertainty regarding how it compares in terms of the overall feel when pressing the switch all the way down. If the bottom out force were to be determined and found to be lower, the Gateron Glory Yellow may be preferable for users who value a lighter overall feel; otherwise, the Akko Fairy would be considered the heavier of the two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, the differences are quite clear. The Akko Fairy features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a shorter option ideal for those who prefer quicker response times often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which aligns with the more traditional feel and depth that some users may find preferable for a more satisfying keystroke. Thus, while the shorter travel distance of the Fairy may enhance responsiveness for some, the longer distance of the Glory Yellow provides a more substantial experience, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for key feel and performance.
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 Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 considering the sound profiles of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, the Fairy is characterized by its muted and neutral qualities. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional clacky switches, making it particularly suitable for office environments where noise levels might be a concern. The neutral sound profile adds versatility, allowing the Fairy to cater to both novice and experienced users alike. In contrast, while the sound profile of the Glory Yellow is not specified, it is worth mentioning that sound can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's construction and keycap materials. Therefore, if the goal is a quieter experience, the Fairy would likely be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switches provide a mild and subtle typing experience. This translates to a gentle resistance that promotes a comfortable typing rhythm without being overly taxing on the fingers, making it particularly suitable for long hours of typing. The combination of its mild characteristics and subtle feedback offers an approachable feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Glory Yellow are not detailed, leaving it unclear whether it can match the Fairy's gentle typing experience, which sets a high standard for comfort and ease of use.
In conclusion, if you are searching for a switch that offers quiet operation and a smooth, comfortable typing experience, the Akko Fairy linear switch stands out as an excellent option. Its muted sound and mild feel make it particularly advantageous for office settings or environments where noise control is important. While the Gateron Glory Yellow offers its own enjoyable typing experience, the specific characteristics related to sound and feel remain unknown, leaving potential users to consider their own preferences for resistance and auditory feedback. If you are leaning towards a more subdued typing experience, the Fairy would likely deliver consistent results in both sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch will depend largely on your specific typing needs and environment. If you are looking for a switch that provides a smooth and muted typing experience, particularly in a professional or shared workspace, the Akko Fairy is the ideal option. Its medium actuation force and factory-applied lubrication not only ensure comfort during extended use but also minimize noise, making it a strong candidate for office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a bit more weight and a satisfying keystroke with a pleasant travel distance, the Gateron Glory Yellow might be the better choice for you. While the exact bottom out force is unknown, its reputation suggests that it provides a greater tactile feedback which can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced feel. Therefore, consider your personal preferences for sound, resistance, and overall typing feel when making your decision, as both switches cater to different typing styles and environments.
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