Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Luciola stand out as linear switches with unique characteristics. The Akko Fairy switches are renowned for their refined lubrication, making them a go-to choice for office settings due to their smooth typing experience and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches are notable for their eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and distinctive sound profile. While the Fairy switches offer a quieter and more comfortable typing experience for daily professional tasks, the Luciola switches provide a visually appealing design and satisfying tactile feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and the Gateron Luciola both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Fairy's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a sharper, yet not overly sharp, sound profile described as clacky. Despite these differences, both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience by providing distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Akko Fairy and Gateron Luciola play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Fairy offers a deep and full sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Luciola provides a higher-pitched and satisfyingly clacky sound. These differences in bottom housing materials further showcase how each switch is designed to deliver a unique typing experience based on the user's preferences.
In conclusion, while the Akko Fairy and Gateron Luciola may have different top and bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon housing of the Fairy or a sharper, clacky sound from the INK blend housing of the Luciola, these switches offer unique characteristics that cater to a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in how the switches feel and perform. The Akko Fairy has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Luciola's 55 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of pressure needed to fully press a key. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Akko Fairy may be more suitable for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Gateron Luciola may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Fairy has a shorter travel distance compared to the Luciola. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Fairy may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Luciola may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both offer unique benefits based on their respective travel distances.
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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for office environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a more distinct and percussive typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Fairy switch would be a better choice for those who prefer a softer and less intrusive sound, while the Luciola switch would be ideal for individuals who enjoy a more crisp and vibrant typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. This aligns well with its reputation for all-day comfort and fatigue-free typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch is known for its snappy, buttery, and polished feel, providing a more responsive and fluid keystroke experience. Individuals who value a more lively and interactive typing feel may find the Luciola switch more appealing, while those who prefer a gentle and subtle typing sensation may lean towards the Fairy switch.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch provides a muted and neutral sound profile with a polished and subtle typing feel, making it a suitable choice for office settings and extended use. On the other hand, the Luciola switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a snappy and buttery typing feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more vibrant and responsive typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches deliver quality performance and can cater to a wide range of users with differing typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the user's specific needs and preferences for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider your environment and personal preferences. If you value a smooth and quiet typing experience with a medium weight and factory-applied lubrication, the Akko Fairy switch is a great choice, especially for office settings or prolonged daily use. On the other hand, if you prioritize a unique aesthetic with eye-catching glow-in-the-dark features, a bouncy and smooth typing feel, and a distinctive sound profile that includes a hollow and "marbly" sound, the Gateron Luciola switch may be more suited to your style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how each switch aligns with your typing habits and workspace requirements.
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