Akko Fairy vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and TTC Gold Red Pro both stand out for their unique features. The Akko Fairy linear switch is preferred for office settings due to its factory-applied lubrication, providing a smooth typing experience and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. This switch is ideal for creating a quieter workspace and ensuring extended use without fatigue. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers versatility with its ease of press and neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments, from gaming to office work to leisurely typing sessions. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the TTC Gold Red Pro, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb more sound than harder plastics. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Fairy uses nylon while the Gold Red Pro employs polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red Pro creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Fairy. This contrast highlights how the choice of material for the top housing can significantly impact the sound characteristics of a switch.
The differences in sound profiles between the Akko Fairy and the TTC Gold Red Pro can also be attributed to their respective bottom housing materials. Both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The qualities of the bottom housing have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, which enhances the overall typing experience. Despite both switches having nylon bottom housing, the distinction in top housing material further shapes the sound produced by each switch. The combination of different housing materials in these switches demonstrates how subtle variations can result in distinct typing experiences.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the TTC Gold Red Pro showcase how the choice of materials can influence the sound profile of a switch. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the Fairy's nylon top housing creates a different sound compared to the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing. The softer properties of nylon absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate material produces a sharper and crisper sound. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound characteristics and typing experience of a switch.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's 43 grams, making the Fairy switch require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy has a bottom out force of 60 grams while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Fairy switch also requires more force to completely press the key down compared to the Gold Red Pro switch. In terms of weight, the Fairy switch is slightly heavier overall compared to the Gold Red Pro switch. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Akko Fairy switch for a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Red Pro has a longer travel distance compared to the Fairy. A switch with a shorter travel distance, like the Fairy, is often preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, a switch with a longer travel distance, like the Gold Red Pro, may provide a more satisfying and deeper typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when selecting the switch with the most suitable travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 is characterized as having a muted and neutral sound profile, which minimizes noise and is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, creating a deep, rich sound that is still harmonious for different settings. The comparison shows that while both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, the Fairy switch leans towards a softer and quieter sound, while the Gold Red Pro switch produces a more deep and satisfying tone.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko Fairy and TTC Gold Red Pro switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. They are also both considered mild and subtle in their tactile feedback, offering a gentle typing feel that is approachable and suitable for shared spaces. This indicates that users can expect similarly comfortable typing experiences from both switches, with a focus on reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking into account the information provided, the Akko Fairy switches are tailored towards a quieter working environment with their muted sound and refined feel, making them ideal for office settings. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro switches offer a more versatile option with their thocky sound and silky smooth feel, catering to a wider range of preferences and purposes. Ultimately, both switches excel in different aspects, providing users with a choice based on their specific preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, particularly in office settings, the Akko Fairy switch with its medium weight and refined lubrication is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you seek versatility and adaptability in various uses, from gaming to office work, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch's neutral sound profile and ease of press make it a fitting option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your specific needs and the kind of typing experience you desire.
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