Akko Fairy vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the Akko Fairy and HMX Gravel offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The Akko Fairy switches excel in office environments, featuring a factory-applied lubrication that not only enhances smoothness but also ensures a quieter typing experience. Their medium weight provides a comfortable balance, making them suitable for prolonged use without causing fatigue, which is crucial for daily professional tasks. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switches cater to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, providing a medium-light actuation force that promotes a responsive and effortless typing experience. Their exceptionally smooth feel appeals to those who value performance and finesse in their keystrokes. Both switches have their merits—whether you prioritize a muted workspace or seek a more spirited typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and HMX Gravel switches showcase distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles during use. The Fairy utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that create a deeper and fuller sound. This quality allows the switch to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder audio experience. In contrast, the Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is notably stiffer. This stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. The aesthetic differences are also notable; the translucent nature of polycarbonate not only allows RGB lighting to shine through brilliantly but also contributes to the switch's overall sound profile. As such, the material choices lead to two fundamentally different typing experiences in terms of audio feedback.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akko Fairy and HMX Gravel switches share a commonality as they both utilize nylon. This choice leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches when the key is bottomed out, as nylon’s softer plastic absorbs sound effectively. Regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that a rounded audio experience is maintained during key presses. Since the bottom housing influences feeling and sound when a switch bottoms out, users should expect a consistent experience in that regard, with both switches delivering satisfying tactile feedback.
When using these switches, the interplay between the distinct top housing materials and the shared nylon bottom housing results in unique overall performance. For the Fairy, the combination of a nylon top and bottom housing creates a wholly cohesive sound profile that emphasizes warmth and richness. In contrast, the HMX Gravel, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, blends a clear and crisp sound from the top with a rounded feedback from the bottom. Thus, while both switches may utilize the same bottom housing material leading to similar bottom-out experiences, the differing top housings ensure varied auditory characteristics that could cater to preference in typing feedback and sound. Users can select their desired typing experience based on whether they lean towards a fuller, muted sound profile or a sharper, more resonant one.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom-out forces. The Fairy switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, making it a medium option. In contrast, the Gravel switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might lean towards the Gravel, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Akko Fairy. Overall, the Fairy is the heavier option, while the Gravel provides a lighter experience, catering to different preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Gravel linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction makes the Akko Fairy the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel, with its 3.5 mm travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Therefore, the choice between these two switches largely depends on personal preference: if you want increased responsiveness, the Fairy is the better pick, whereas if you prefer a more hearty depth, you might favor the Gravel.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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, the Akko Fairy switches are designed to be muted and neutral. This means they produce a softer sound profile that is ideal for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. Their muted quality minimizes the typical clacking associated with mechanical keyboards, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switches’ sound characteristics remain largely unknown, but it's important to note that sound can be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard case and keycaps. Thus, while the Fairy switches clearly provide a quieter typing experience, the sound profile of the Gravel switches requires further exploration.
In terms of feel, the Fairy switches are characterized by their polished, mild, and subtle traits. The factory lubrication ensures smooth key travel, resulting in a refined and effortless typing experience. Their mild resistance makes them approachable for both novices and seasoned users, appealing to a broad audience. Conversely, the HMX Gravel's tactile qualities are not specified, leaving a gap in their comparative feel. However, given that both switches are marketed toward providing a pleasant experience, users will likely find similarities in smoothness, though the specific characteristics may vary in intensity.
In conclusion, while the Akko Fairy linear switch excels in providing a muted sound and a polished feel, the specifics of the HMX Gravel switch remain less defined. The Fairy's medium weight and factory lubrication cater to those seeking both comfort and reduced noise, making it an excellent choice for office-related tasks. Without detailed descriptions on the Gravel's sound and feel, choosing between them requires consideration of individual preferences. If sound reduction and a smooth typing experience are your priorities, the Fairy switches are a reliable option, whereas the Gravel may require further research to ascertain their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and usage scenarios. If you're often working in an office environment or require a switch that can handle long typing sessions with comfort, the Fairy switch is your best bet. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams offers just the right amount of resistance to prevent finger fatigue while providing a smooth and muted typing experience, which is essential for maintaining a quieter work atmosphere. The polished feel of the Fairy further enhances your typing experience, making each keystroke satisfying and refined.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a lightweight, responsive touch for gaming or casual typing, the HMX Gravel switch might be more suitable for you. With a lower bottom-out force of 50 grams, it allows for effortless actuation, letting you type or game swiftly without feeling bogged down by the resistance. The Gravel's exceptional smoothness enhances your overall typing feel, which is particularly appealing for enthusiasts who enjoy a highly responsive keyboard experience. In summary, choose the Akko Fairy for a balanced, polished typing experience that excels in professional settings, and opt for the HMX Gravel if you desire a lighter, snappier switch that provides a smooth and enjoyable touch for leisurely or gaming pursuits.
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