Akko Fairy vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Fairy and HMX Lucky are two compelling linear options that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy switches shine in office environments, renowned for their refined, factory-applied lubrication which guarantees a smooth and quiet typing experience. Their medium weight strikes an ideal balance, providing enough resistance for a satisfying key press without leading to fatigue, making them perfect for long hours of productivity. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switches are designed with softer, glittery nylon housings that contribute to a lightweight, neutral typing experience that many find deeply satisfying. While the Fairy focuses on a polished and muted experience suited for professional settings, the Lucky emphasizes a more playful and comfortable feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the HMX Lucky, we note that both feature nylon as their primary material for the top and bottom housings. This choice of nylon is significant, as it contributes to a distinctive typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon, a softer plastic, allows for greater sound absorption compared to harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Consequently, users of both the Fairy and Lucky switches can expect a similar auditory experience, highlighting the effective sound-dampening qualities inherent to nylon.
Despite the similarity in the top and bottom housing materials, there are differentiating factors that impact the overall typing experience. For instance, if the Akko Fairy were to use a different material for either the top or bottom housing, users would experience a unique blend of sound and tactile feedback as each housing material contributes its specific properties. When the housing materials are the same as in the case of both the Fairy and Lucky, the combined effects of nylon on sound and feel not only unify the typing experience but also assure firmer consistency in performance. This consistency allows for predictability when assessing user responsiveness and keystroke feedback.
Ultimately, the similarities in housing materials between the Akko Fairy and HMX Lucky ensure comparable results in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The exclusion of alternative materials in either switch fosters an environment of uniformity, allowing users to appreciate the acoustics and mechanics inherent to nylon. Therefore, when engaging either switch, users will likely encounter an equally satisfying experience, characterized by the rich sound and soft touch that nylon provides across the board. This consistency in material choice reinforces the notion that while variations can exist, a similar result is assured when the same housing materials are employed.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are quite significant. The Akko Fairy requires an actuation force of 50 grams and boasts a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in a medium range that appeals to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky is much lighter, with an actuation force of only 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes the Lucky more suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming, as its lighter force reduces finger fatigue. Therefore, if you prefer a softer feel that may alleviate strain during long use, the HMX Lucky would be the better choice. Conversely, if you appreciate a firmer push while typing, the Akko Fairy could provide that more engaging tactile experience. In summary, the Akko Fairy is the heavier option, while the HMX Lucky is the lighter, making them appealing to different types of users based on their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Akko Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the HMX Lucky has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is longer. For users seeking a quicker response time, the shorter Fairy switch may be more appealing, as it allows for faster key presses, catering to gamers who prefer that added responsiveness. Conversely, the HMX Lucky's longer travel distance can provide a more substantial feel, which some users might find more satisfying for typing or gaming, as it offers a greater depth to the key press. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired tactile feedback.
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 HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko Fairy and HMX Lucky linear switches, the Fairy is noted for its muted quality, producing a softer and quieter sound that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Fairy switches particularly suitable for office environments where a quieter workspace is essential. Additionally, the neutral sound profile of the Fairy provides a moderate acoustic experience, making them versatile enough for both beginner and advanced users. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Lucky switches remain unspecified, leaving a gap in the comparison for users who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Fairy switches stand out with their polished design, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience thanks to factory-applied lubrication. Their mild and subtle resistance ensures a gentle yet satisfying press, making them approachable for users of all skill levels while providing enough tactile feedback to maintain engagement during extended typing sessions. However, the feel of the Lucky switches is also not detailed, creating uncertainty about how they compare in terms of smoothness, resistance, and overall typing satisfaction.
In summary, the Akko Fairy linear switches are characterized by their muted sound, neutral acoustic profile, and polished, mild feel, making them ideal for professional use in quieter settings. The HMX Lucky linear switches lack provided sound and feel descriptors, creating a lack of information that could influence a newcomer’s choice. For users who appreciate the qualities offered by the Fairy switches, they can expect a refined typing experience with minimal noise, but until more details about the Lucky switches are available, it’s challenging to determine their suitability in comparison.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific preferences and use case. If you find yourself working in an office setting or need a switch that facilitates extended typing sessions without causing fatigue, the Akko Fairy is the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a balanced resistance that is both satisfying and comfortable, while the refined lubrication ensures a smooth and polished typing experience, making it suitable for quiet environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel with a softer touch or are drawn to the idea of a more playful typing experience, the HMX Lucky switch, with its lighter 43-gram actuation force, may be your best bet. Although less noise information is available for the Lucky, you can expect a neutral yet satisfying experience that might resonate well with those who enjoy a touch of whimsy in their setups. In summary, your ideal switch choice hinges on your typing environment and preferred tactile feedback—whether you opt for the refined comfort of the Akko Fairy or the light and playful feel of the HMX Lucky.
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