Akko Fairy vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy, a linear switch, and the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences. The Fairy switches from Akko are perfect for office settings with their refined lubrication that ensures smooth typing and comfortable extended use. Additionally, their medium weight strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, making them ideal for a quiet workspace. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer typing experience compared to more common tactile switches on the market. While both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and Durock Light Tactile switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The nylon material is softer, absorbing more sound than harder plastics, which creates a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
In contrast, the top housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Durock Light Tactile switches differ, with the Fairy using nylon and the Light Tactile using polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Fairy's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Light Tactile's translucent polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element that the Fairy's opaque nylon top housing does not offer.
Overall, while both the Akko Fairy and Durock Light Tactile switches share a nylon bottom housing material that provides a similar sound profile, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetics. The Fairy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Light Tactile's translucent polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding a visual element not present in the Fairy switch. These differences in top housing materials result in unique typing experiences and overall appearances for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Fairy has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Light Tactile's 52 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akko Fairy requires 60 grams while the Durock Light Tactile needs 67 grams, making the latter switch heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation force but the Durock Light Tactile leans towards the medium-heavy side for bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the Akko Fairy, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Durock Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch provides a deeper press with its longer travel distance, offering a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Both switches have their own unique advantages, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your 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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch are described as having a neutral profile, meaning they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most environments. This makes them versatile options for both home and office settings where a quieter typing experience is desired. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Fairy and the Light Tactile switches offer a polished and mild typing experience. The Fairy switch is known for its polished finish and subtle resistance, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Similarly, the Light Tactile switch provides users with a gentle tactility and refined typing experience, ensuring comfortable key presses without being too overpowering. These qualities make both switches appealing to a wide range of users who value smoothness and comfort in their typing experience.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch share similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished, mild typing experience that is ideal for everyday use. Whether you choose the Fairy for its factory-lubricated smoothness or the Light Tactile for its gentle tactility, you can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing experience from either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing needs of the user.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider the context in which you will be using them. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office settings and offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the Akko Fairy linear switch with its medium bottom out force of 60 grams may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a gentle tactility and a unique sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard.
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