Akko Fairy vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko Fairy and the PH Studio Jacaranda mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy is known for its smooth and refined typing experience, ideal for office settings where a quiet and comfortable typing experience is desired. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out force and bouncy sensation, providing a crisp and clacky feedback that some users may prefer. The Fairy switch leans towards a more polished and muted feel, while the Jacaranda switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound signature. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and PH Studio Jacaranda switches differ significantly in terms of the top housing. The Fairy features a Nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch utilizes a Polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing of both switches, they share the same Nylon material. This commonality means that typing on switches using either the Akko Fairy or PH Studio Jacaranda will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic composition of Nylon. This consistency in housing material for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches, with the main differences in sound profile coming from their respective top housings. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile from Polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound profile from Nylon, both switches offer a unique typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Akko Fairy and PH Studio Jacaranda switches ultimately comes down to the sound profile preference of the user. The Fairy's Nylon top housing offers a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Jacaranda's Polycarbonate top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound. Both switches share the same Nylon bottom housing, providing a consistent deep and full sound experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper sound of Polycarbonate or the softer, fuller sound of Nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Fairy switch. The Fairy switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Jacaranda switch has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Fairy switch provides a more medium feel, while the Jacaranda switch offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Jacaranda switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Fairy switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Gamers looking for a more responsive typing experience may lean towards the Fairy switch, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes could opt for the Jacaranda switch. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of performance and feel when typing.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office settings. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, producing a sharp and crisp feedback with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference and workspace environment, users may choose the Fairy for a more subdued sound or the Jacaranda for a livelier typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko Fairy is characterized by its polished, mild, and subtle typing feel, offering a smooth and refined keypress with gentle resistance. This makes it comfortable for extended use without causing strain on the fingers. In comparison, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While both switches offer a pleasant typing feel, the Fairy may appeal to those seeking a more balanced tactile feedback, whereas the Jacaranda caters to users who prioritize a silky smooth keypress.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy excels in providing a refined, quiet typing experience ideal for office use, while the Jacaranda stands out with its bouncy feedback and clacky sound signature, maximizing the typing enjoyment for users who prefer a livelier experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing environment, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences and priorities in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a balanced typing experience with medium resistance and a quieter sound profile, the Fairy switch would be an excellent choice, especially for office settings and extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with a clacky sound profile, and a smooth typing experience, the Jacaranda switch might be more suited to your taste, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying for your typing style and environment.
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