Akko Fairy vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The Fairy switches from Akko are perfect for office settings, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience with their factory-applied lubrication and medium weight. They excel in creating a quieter workspace and can be comfortably used for extended periods, making them ideal for daily professional tasks. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switches boast a silky smooth typing experience with their full nylon construction and generous factory lube. They offer a frictionless feel and a creamy typing experience, appealing to users who value a polished and subdued 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
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Durock Ice King Linear utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material between the two switches ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Although both switches share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom housing, the impact of each housing on the overall typing experience can differ. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This difference in housing impact highlights how even small variations in material or design can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the use of nylon as a housing material in both the Akko Fairy and the Durock Ice King Linear contributes to a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the impact of the top and bottom housing may vary, the overall qualities of nylon allow for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Users can expect a smooth typing experience with a dampened sound quality, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that both switches have very similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the Fairy being slightly lighter. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes both switches fall into the medium force category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Fairy may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Fairy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Ice King Linear offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a more responsive keystroke, while the Ice King Linear's longer travel distance might be preferred by individuals who enjoy a deeper press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing 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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 switch is known for producing a muted and neutral sound profile, perfect for maintaining a quiet work environment without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle typing experience. Both switches are designed to minimize noise, making them suitable for shared spaces or office settings. However, if sound is a crucial factor, choosing between a more muted sound of the Fairy or a more subdued sound of the Ice King Linear would depend on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is praised for its polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel for comfortable extended use. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing feel. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the Ice King Linear may appeal more to those who prefer an even silkier sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Ultimately, the choice between the Fairy and Ice King Linear would come down to personal preference regarding the exact typing feel desired.
Taking into account the sound and feel characteristics of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, newcomers can expect similar results in terms of a quiet and smooth typing experience. Both switches are designed to provide a comfortable and satisfying typing experience suitable for office settings or casual use. While the Fairy offers a more balanced feel and sound profile, the Ice King Linear excels in providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing feel. For newcomers seeking a reliable linear switch, either the Akko Fairy or the Durock Ice King Linear would be a solid choice based on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a smoother typing experience with factory-applied lubrication and a medium bottom out force, the Akko Fairy switch is the way to go, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Durock Ice King Linear switch with its full nylon construction and generous factory lube may be more suitable for you. Both switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what will enhance your overall typing experience the most.
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