Akko Fairy vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy and TTC Honey mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some notable differences to consider. The Akko Fairy is known for its refined lubrication that provides a smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office settings where comfort and quiet operation are essential. The medium weight of the Fairy switches strikes a balance between satisfying key presses and preventing fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switches offer a smooth and creamy typing feel with a deep and pleasant sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more subtle 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
42g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the TTC Honey are notably different in terms of the top and bottom housings. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Honey features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While the Fairy offers a duller and rounder sound with its nylon housing, the Honey provides a more clear and resonant sound with its polycarbonate housing.
The use of different housing materials in the Akko Fairy and TTC Honey switches results in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. The nylon top housing of the Fairy contributes to a softer and more absorbing typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Honey produces a sharper and crisper typing sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Fairy enhances the overall sound profile with its softer properties, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey adds to the clear and resonant sound output of the switch. These contrasting housing materials highlight the diversity of options available to keyboard enthusiasts looking for specific sound and feel preferences in their switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko Fairy and TTC Honey switches, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences. The split impact of the bottom and top housings on the sound profile and typing feel of each switch provides a nuanced typing experience for users. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of nylon housing in the Fairy or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate housing in the Honey, both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and TTC Honey linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Honey's lighter 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams while the Honey only needs 50 grams. This makes the Honey switch lighter overall, which could be preferable for those looking for a smoother and lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Fairy switch offers a slightly heavier feel, which may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing feedback. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying forces, catering to individuals with different preferences in keyboard weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Honey switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Fairy switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more pronounced keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Honey switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
The Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, which produces a softer and quieter typing experience, perfect for office settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened sound when pressed, creating a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Both switches cater to a quieter typing environment, making them suitable for shared spaces or professional settings.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The mild resistance of the Fairy switch provides a comfortable typing feel that is not overly pronounced, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch is known for its creamy and buttery typing experience, with lubricant applied at the factory for a smooth and effortless keystroke. The frictionless travel of the Honey switch ensures a fluid typing sensation, while maintaining a subtle resistance for a light typing feel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, catering to different preferences for key feel.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and TTC Honey linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Fairy switch is more polished and subtle in both sound and feel, the Honey switch provides a creamier and smoother typing experience with a more subdued sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for typing experience and sound levels, both switches offer satisfying options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether opting for the smoother feel of the Honey switch or the refined typing experience of the Fairy switch, users can expect comparable results in terms of comfort and quality.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the TTC Honey linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force and a polished, mild typing experience with a muted sound profile, then the Akko Fairy switch would be an excellent choice for office settings and daily professional tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a creamy, frictionless typing feel with a subdued sound profile, then the TTC Honey switch would be a great option for a smooth and pleasant typing experience. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, so it's important to evaluate which qualities align best with your personal typing preferences before making a decision.
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