Akko Fairy vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy and the KTT Laurel mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Akko Fairy is best suited for office settings, providing a smooth typing experience with its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. This switch is ideal for creating a quiet workspace and comfortable extended use throughout the day. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel is a medium-light linear switch known for its responsiveness and comfort, thanks to its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. Additionally, the Laurel offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons for consideration, 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the KTT Laurel both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both top and bottom housings, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Laurel features POM housings for both top and bottom, resulting in a unique and pleasing sound that is more muted and on the deeper side. Despite the different materials used, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
While the Fairy's nylon top housing and the Laurel's POM top housing both contribute to a deeper sound profile, the Fairy may offer a slightly duller and rounder sound due to the nature of nylon being a softer plastic. In contrast, the Laurel's POM top housing creates a more muted sound, adding to the uniqueness of the switch's overall sound profile. Both materials play a significant role in enhancing the typing experience, with the differences in sound being subtle but noticeable to those with a keen ear for keyboard acoustics.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Fairy's nylon and the Laurel's POM materials both contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to provide a similar result in terms of creating a satisfying typing experience with a focus on delivering a deep and full sound profile to the user.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Fairy has a slightly heavier feel compared to the Laurel. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium weight option. On the other hand, the Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, giving it a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions, the Laurel would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push when pressing keys, the Fairy would be the preferred option. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches cater to different preferences, with the Fairy offering a medium-weight experience and the Laurel providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper feel when typing, the KTT Laurel switch may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for office environments where a quieter typing experience is appreciated. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that adds a touch of bass-heavy mellowness to your typing sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Fairy being more subdued and the Laurel having a slightly more distinct tone.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch boasts a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience due to its refined finish and factory lubrication, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it comfortable for extended use and suitable for shared spaces. Conversely, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience with its longer pole design. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more lively and tactile feel while typing.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch is tailored towards a quieter and smoother typing experience, making it suitable for office settings and everyday professional tasks. On the other hand, the Laurel switch provides a slightly more pronounced sound profile and a snappier feel, catering to those who prefer a more responsive and tactile typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. It's essential to consider these factors when choosing between the Akko Fairy and KTT Laurel switches to ensure you get the desired results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings, the Akko Fairy linear switch with its medium bottom out force and polished, mild feel would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with a low-pitched sound profile that offers a snappy typing experience, the KTT Laurel linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use case. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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