Akko Fairy vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and TTC Gold Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy switch is ideal for office settings with its factory-applied lubrication, providing a smooth typing experience and medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts rapid responsiveness with its shortened travel distance, leading to a decisive bottom-out and a resonant sound signature. While the Fairy switch focuses on a quieter and comfortable typing experience, the Gold Silver switch prioritizes speed and precision. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and TTC Gold Silver both feature nylon top housings, which have a soft and sound-absorbing quality that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, especially beneficial for RGB lighting effects. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of both switches reinforces the deep and full sound profile from the top housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Akko Fairy and TTC Gold Silver share a common nylon bottom housing. This ensures that the switches maintain a similar sound profile, with the nylon material absorbing sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a combination of qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This balance in housing materials creates a harmonious typing experience for users of both switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and TTC Gold Silver play a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the Fairy's nylon top housing provides a duller and rounder sound, the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, especially with RGB lighting. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent and deep sound profile for both switches, enhancing the overall typing experience regardless of the differences in top housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the sound qualities that users prefer in their typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is evident that both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Fairy has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Silver's lighter 45 grams. However, the Fairy also requires a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Gold Silver does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that while the Fairy may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, the Gold Silver may offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly shorter than the TTC Gold Silver linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The Fairy offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter distance, while the Gold Silver provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 best described as muted and neutral, offering a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for office settings. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and rich auditory feedback with each keystroke. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them versatile for various environments and user preferences.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko Fairy and TTC Gold Silver linear switches are polished and offer a smooth typing experience. The Fairy switch is described as mild and subtle, providing a gentle and refined typing feel with reduced friction. Similarly, the Gold Silver switch is also described as mild and subtle, emphasizing the smoothness and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience. These qualities result in a comfortable and satisfying typing feel for extended use.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and TTC Gold Silver linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch excels in providing a quieter and comfortable typing experience suitable for office environments, while the Gold Silver switch emphasizes rapid responsiveness and a solid bottom-out with a resonant sound signature. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer polished finishes with smooth key travel, making them suitable for various typing scenarios. Whether you choose the Fairy or Gold Silver switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, you should consider the specific needs of your typing environment and preferences. If you value a smooth and comfortable typing experience with medium resistance, the Fairy switch would be an excellent choice, especially for office settings where a quieter workspace is desired. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed, precision, and a satisfying sound profile, the Gold Silver switch offers rapid responsiveness and a thocky, low-pitched sound signature. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize comfort and quietness (Fairy) or speed and tactile feedback (Gold Silver) in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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