Akko Fairy vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Fairy and the Neo Lavender HE offer distinct advantages that cater to different user preferences. The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, is celebrated for its refined, factory-applied lubrication, resulting in a smooth and muted typing experience that is particularly well-suited for office environments. Its medium weight provides just the right amount of resistance, ensuring that users can type comfortably for extended periods while maintaining a quieter workspace. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE employs hall effect technology, which introduces a unique clean and low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a subtle auditory experience. These switches are designed to work seamlessly with Wooting keyboards, appealing to users who are interested in advanced features and responsiveness. While the Akko Fairy is ideal for everyday typing tasks with its polished and neutral feel, the Neo Lavender HE stands out for users seeking innovation and a distinct typing satisfaction. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Neo Lavender HE switches, it's essential to note that both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice means that both switches are likely to elicit a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is known for being a relatively softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to the harsher characteristics of harder plastics. As a result, users of both switches can expect a satisfying acoustic performance that enhances the typing experience, irrespective of any other differences in switch design.
While the use of nylon as a housing material is consistent across both the Akko Fairy and Neo Lavender HE switches, the nuanced impact of each housing on the overall typing experience should not be overlooked. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the feel and sound at the bottom-out point when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Since both switches share the same nylon composition, the dampening qualities and the softer acoustic profile should theoretically yield similar characteristics when typing on either switch. Thus, users will appreciate that both switches are designed to produce a satisfying sound throughout the keystroke action.
One notable aspect of both switches is the potential for the nylon housing to significantly influence how the switch feels and sounds during use. Although the structural design and switch mechanisms may differ between the Akko Fairy and Neo Lavender HE, the combined use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings suggests that the resulting typing experience is likely to maintain a degree of consistency. Therefore, users can confidently choose either switch, knowing that they will experience a rich sound that is typical of nylon-based constructions, as well as a tactile sensation that balances between auditory pleasure and keystroke feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy switch requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium option, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Lavender HE switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who seek to type or game for extended periods without fatigue. Overall, the Fairy switch is heavier, while the Lavender HE is lighter, highlighting a clear distinction in user experience. Consequently, if you favor a softer touch, the Lavender HE is likely the better choice, whereas the Fairy provides a firmer feel for those who appreciate more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, the travel distances clearly differ. The Fairy features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Lavender HE has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Fairy's shorter travel distance caters to gamers seeking quicker response times, providing a more immediate actuation. In contrast, the Lavender HE's greater travel distance of 3.8 mm may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel, allowing for a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference: if you value quick responsiveness, the Akko Fairy would be the better option, while the Neo Lavender HE is suited for those who appreciate more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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 switches are characterized by a muted profile, designed specifically for quieter environments. They produce a softer sound that minimizes the usual noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making them an excellent choice for office settings. The neutral sound quality also allows these switches to fit a variety of use cases, whether at home or in a professional space. The sound produced by the Neo Lavender HE is clean and low, similar to the Fairy switches, which makes both options conducive to avoiding disruptive noise. However, the Lavender HE’s distinct advantage lies in its compatibility with Wooting keyboards, which may enhance its adaptability for specific setups.
Regarding feel, the Fairy switches shine with their polished texture, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to factory-applied lubrication. Their mild and subtle resistance contributes to a gentle typing experience, striking a balance that is easy on the fingers during prolonged use. This means that users can expect reduced friction and comfortable key travel, which is particularly beneficial in office settings. The subjective feel of the Neo Lavender HE is not detailed; therefore, a direct comparison cannot be established. However, if you appreciate an experience similar to the Fairy switches, the Lavender HE may still provide a satisfying experience, albeit potentially with different dynamics.
In conclusion, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch cater to users seeking quiet and refined typing experiences, albeit with nuances in sound and feel. The Fairy’s design ensures a muted and polished typing feel ideal for work environments, while the Lavender HE switches offer a clean audio profile and unique compatibility features. As such, while you can expect quieter operation and a pleasant typing experience from both, the exact tactile feedback might differ, and further exploration is recommended to identify the best fit for your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch largely depends on your individual preferences and usage scenarios. If you're primarily using your keyboard in an office setting or require a switch for extended typing sessions, the Akko Fairy is the standout option due to its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and its polished, subtle feel. This switch delivers a muted sound profile and refined lubrication, ensuring a comfortable and quiet experience ideal for shared workspaces. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter feel and a unique typing experience, the Neo Lavender HE, with its 50 grams of actuation force, offers an intriguing option, especially for users of Wooting keyboards who appreciate the benefits of magnetic switches. Its clean, low sound makes it suitable for various environments, albeit without the same level of refinement as the Fairy. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a balanced, comfortable typing experience for long durations or a lighter switch that stands out for its different technology and low noise.
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