Akko Fairy vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to choose between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch for your mechanical keyboard, it's important to consider your specific typing preferences and needs. The Fairy switches from Akko are perfect for office settings due to their smooth and refined feel, thanks to factory-applied lubrication. With a medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, these switches are ideal for a quieter workspace and prolonged use throughout the day. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches provide a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. Known for their satisfyingly snappy sound profile and factory lubed for smooth operation, the Kiwi switches deliver an immersive typing experience right out of the box. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and TKC Kiwi switches both play a significant role in the sound profile they produce. The Fairy's nylon top and bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housing provides a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. Despite both switch housings being different, they each contribute to the overall sound experience of the switch.
One key difference between the two housing materials is the type of sound they produce. The nylon housing of the Akko Fairy creates a duller and rounder sound, while the UHWMPE housing of the TKC Kiwi offers a brighter and more resonant sound profile. This difference in sound signature can greatly impact the typing experience and overall feel of the switches. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a bright, resonant sound can help determine which switch housing material is more suited to your preferences.
Although the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and TKC Kiwi switches have distinct sound profiles, they both contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the softer, deeper sound of the nylon housing in the Fairy or the brighter, resonant sound of the UHWMPE housing in the Kiwi, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired sound profile for the switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining which one is more suitable for different preferences. The Fairy has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Fairy provides a more consistent experience throughout the keystroke, while the Kiwi offers a lighter initial push but requires more force to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kiwi may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel, the Fairy may be more suitable due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch is 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Fairy offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Kiwi, which may appeal to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance is preferred for a comfortable typing 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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet office settings where minimizing noise is essential. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a satisfyingly snappy tone that enhances the typing experience. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and user preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is polished and delivers a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to the factory-applied lubrication that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. It offers a mild and subtle tactile feedback, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch features a stepped tactile feedback, providing a two-stage typing experience with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. Like the Fairy switch, the Kiwi switch is also polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a balanced medium weight and polished feel. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is perfect for users looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump and a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer factory lubrication for a smooth typing experience out of the box, making them suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Fairy and TKC Kiwi switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, you should choose the Akko Fairy linear switch if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience ideal for office settings or extended daily use. The Fairy's medium bottom out force and factory-applied lubrication strike a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, making it a great choice for a workspace where noise levels need to be kept low. On the other hand, you should opt for the TKC Kiwi tactile switch if you want a more immersive typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. The Kiwi's lightly factory lubed switches provide a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Akko Fairy and TKC Kiwi switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter and comfortable typing experience (Fairy) or a more tactile and immersive typing experience (Kiwi).
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