Akko Fairy vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two impressive linear options stand out: the Akko Fairy and the HMX Hibiscus. The Fairy switches are specifically designed for office environments, featuring refined, factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth typing experience. Their medium weight provides a satisfying feel without leading to fatigue, making them ideal for long hours of work while maintaining a quieter atmosphere. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switches deliver an ultra-light actuation force that surpasses 80% of all switches on the market, offering an extraordinary typing experience marked by a satisfyingly clacky and crispy sound. While the Fairy is perfect for those seeking a muted and comfortable setting, the Hibiscus appeals to users craving a more vibrant and energetic feel. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the HMX Hibiscus utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, making them similar in terms of material and expected performance. Nylon, known for its soft flexibility, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that characterizes the typing experience on these switches. The choice of nylon as a housing material enhances sound absorption, allowing both models to produce a more muted and rounded auditory result when typing. This commonality in housing materials ensures that users will find the sound experience to be consistent across both the Akko Fairy and HMX Hibiscus, creating a satisfying acoustic environment conducive to extended typing sessions.
Despite the identical housing materials, there could be subtle differences in the overall typing experience based on the specific designs and structures of each switch. While the nylon top and bottom housings for both switches provide the foundation for a unified sound profile, the unique characteristics crafted by the manufacturers may lead to variations in feel and response. For example, depending on how each manufacturer's design integrates the switch’s actuation mechanism with the nylon housing, the typing feedback could differ slightly. These distinctions would be felt most notably during the bottom-out phase, where the feel of the switch culminates from the bottom housing's impact, affecting tactile perception.
In conclusion, while the Akko Fairy and HMX Hibiscus share the same nylon housing materials, their individual switch designs could impart different sensations to the user. Those seeking a deeper understanding of their keyboards will find the acoustics largely similar, thanks to the nature of nylon as a housing material. However, switching between the two may reveal a nuanced difference in feedback based on how each design optimizes the interaction between housing and actuation. Users willing to invest time in this comparison might appreciate the subtleties that contribute to a unique typing experience, despite the shared housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus is lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Hibiscus would be easier to press, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming periods, as users might find it less strenuous on their fingers. Meanwhile, the Fairy switch offers a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer resistance when typing. Overall, if you’re looking for a lighter option, the HMX Hibiscus is the clear choice, while the Akko Fairy provides a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Hibiscus linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Fairy is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that is often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more traditional and hearty depth in their key presses. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches highlights the variance in user preferences, where the Fairy offers a quicker actuation and the Hibiscus delivers a more pronounced tactile experience.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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 linear switches are designed with a focus on a muted and neutral profile. This makes them ideal for environments such as offices, where minimizing noise is important. Their refined, factory-applied lubrication further contributes to a quieter typing experience, allowing users to type without the auditory distractions typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switches present a stark contrast with their distinctive clacky sound signature. Known for their sharp, crisp notes, these switches offer a lively auditory feedback that many users find energizing. The Hibiscus's more pronounced sound makes it less suited for shared spaces, especially when compared to the subdued sound of the Fairy switches.
In terms of feel, the Fairy switches provide a mild and subtle experience, characterized by gentle resistance that caters to users looking for a balanced typing sensation. This approachability aligns well with those who prefer a less pronounced tactile feedback, making the Fairy switches suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. Conversely, the HMX Hibiscus switches boast a bouncy and feathery feel, designed for those who enjoy a lively and elastic feedback when typing. The exceptionally light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making the Hibiscus an excellent choice for activities requiring quick, repetitive keystrokes, such as gaming or prolonged productivity tasks.
In conclusion, selecting between the Akko Fairy and HMX Hibiscus linear switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. The Fairy offers a muted, smooth experience that’s perfect for professional settings, while the Hibiscus stands out with its engaging sound and lively feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Both switches cater to different needs and environments, but either choice will provide a satisfactory typing experience, making it easier to find the right one for your specific requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you often find yourself typing in an office environment or a shared space, the Fairy switch is a solid choice thanks to its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, muted sound profile, and subtle feel. This combination ensures a satisfying yet quiet typing experience, ideal for long hours without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you're someone who enjoys a bouncier, more dynamic feedback with an emphasis on sound, the HMX Hibiscus switch with its lighter 48-gram bottom-out force may be more appealing. Its clacky, poppy sound and feathery touch make it perfect for casual gaming or composing at home, especially if you appreciate an exciting auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your work or play environment and how much you value sound and tactile feedback in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
