Akko Fairy vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Akko Fairy and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, both of which are linear switches. The Fairy switches from Akko are known for their smooth and refined typing experience, making them ideal for office settings. With factory-applied lubrication, these switches offer a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, making them suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches stand out for their unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy and lightweight switch. While the Fairy switches come pre-lubricated for a seamless typing experience, the Keygeek Raw switches arrive unlubricated, providing a textured feel out of the box for enthusiasts who prefer hand-lubing. Ultimately, the Akko Fairy is perfect for those seeking a smooth and comfortable typing experience in a professional setting, while the Keygeek Raw is better suited for enthusiasts looking to customize and experiment with their switches. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and Keygeek Keygeek Raw utilize nylon in their housing materials, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The Fairy's nylon top housing offers a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw's Nylon & UPE blend top housing is exclusive to the brand, potentially offering a unique typing experience with a different sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Fairy and Keygeek Raw switches feature nylon in their construction. This material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a rounder sound due to its softer composition. However, the Keygeek Raw switches utilize a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, which is unique to the brand and may offer a different typing experience compared to the Fairy's nylon bottom housing.
While both switches share similar characteristics in their housing materials, the unique blends used in the Keygeek Raw switches set them apart from the Akko Fairy. The exclusive Nylon & UPE blend top housing and UMPE & Si blend bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw switches may provide a different sound and feel compared to the Fairy's nylon housing. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfactory typing experience, with slight variations in sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is clear that the Fairy is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Fairy requiring 60 grams and the Keygeek Raw requiring 57.5 grams. This means that while the Fairy may provide a lighter typing experience initially, both switches will ultimately have a similar feel when bottoming out. Some users may prefer the Fairy for its lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, the Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Keygeek Raw has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. The difference between the two distances is minimal, so in terms of feel, users may not notice a significant variation in travel distance. However, those looking for a slightly deeper keystroke may prefer the Keygeek Raw, while those seeking a more abrupt feel may opt for the Akko Fairy. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the Akko Fairy and Keygeek Raw switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound level that is suitable for various environments, whether it be at home or in a professional setting. The Fairy switch has a muted quality, producing a softer and quieter sound, making it ideal for office use where noise levels need to be kept low. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch provides a slightly textured sound out of the box, giving a unique auditory experience to those who prefer a bit of feedback in their typing.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished, mild, and subtle characteristics. With a smooth and refined finish, these switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel, creating a sleek typing experience. The mild typing feel of the Fairy switch falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw switches are described as textured, mild, and subtle. The unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon gives these switches a creamy yet lightweight feel, with a slight friction that some users may appreciate for added tactile feedback.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and Keygeek Raw linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience, ideal for professional environments, while the Keygeek Raw switch stands out with its unique blend of materials and slightly textured feel for those who enjoy a different tactile experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them versatile choices for a variety of situations. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office settings, offers a smooth typing experience, and a medium bottom out force, the Akko Fairy switch would be a perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique material blend, a slightly textured feel, and the opportunity to hand-lube your switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch would be the better option. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with medium bottom out forces, but it is important to choose based on what aligns best with your preferences and intended use.
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