Akko Fairy vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Akko Fairy and the KTT Grapefruit mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Akko Fairy switches are ideal for office settings, with their smooth typing experience and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. They are known for being quiet and comfortable for extended use, making them a great option for daily professional tasks. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches offer a unique typing feel with a "baritone" sound profile, showcasing a light and soft touch. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the KTT Grapefruit are quite different, with the Fairy featuring a nylon top housing and the Grapefruit featuring a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Fairy creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate in the Grapefruit's top housing allows for RGB lighting, giving it a unique aesthetic appeal that the Fairy does not have.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akko Fairy and the KTT Grapefruit feature nylon housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in the bottom housing material means that typing on both switches will feel similar in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, the differences in the top housing material of the two switches will still impact the overall sound profile and aesthetics of the typing experience.
Overall, the differences in the top housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the KTT Grapefruit play a significant role in the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of each switch. While the nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, the nylon top housing of the Fairy and the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit create distinct sound profiles. The duller and rounder sound of the Fairy contrasts with the sharper and higher-pitched sound of the Grapefruit, making each switch unique in its own way. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch both fall within the medium to medium-light range in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Fairy requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Fairy is slightly heavier in both aspects compared to the Grapefruit. For individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Grapefruit may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Fairy could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the difference in force between the two switches may result in a slightly varied typing experience, with the Fairy offering a slightly firmer feel and the Grapefruit providing a slightly lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Grapefruit's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on personal preference, with the Fairy being the shorter option and the Grapefruit offering a longer travel distance for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your individual typing or gaming 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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches have a neutral sound profile, the Fairy may be more suited for those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the Grapefruit may appeal to those who prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko Fairy and KTT Grapefruit switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Fairy offers a mild and subtle typing feel, striking a balance between gentle resistance and comfortable key presses, making it suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. Similarly, the Grapefruit switch showcases a soft and light typing feel, aligning well with the demands of daily typing tasks.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and KTT Grapefruit linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch provides a quieter typing experience with a medium weight and comfortable resistance, making it suitable for office environments and extended use. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch stands out with its low-pitched sound profile and soft typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound. Ultimately, both switches offer a polished and refined typing experience, with the choice between them depending on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings and provides a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the Akko Fairy switch would be an excellent choice due to its medium weight and muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a unique low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs. Both switches offer their own advantages, so make sure to choose the one that best fits your typing style and environment.
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