Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and Gateron Magnetic Jade offer distinctly different experiences that cater to various user preferences. The Akko Fairy switches, known for their smooth and muted operation due to factory-applied lubrication, excel in office environments where a quieter and more comfortable typing experience is essential for productivity. Their medium weight ensures that typists enjoy a satisfying press without fatigue, making them a practical choice for daily professional tasks. On the other hand, Gateron Magnetic Jade switches provide a vibrant and clacky sound, ideally suited for enthusiasts looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. These switches deliver an exciting auditory feedback that not only elevates the typing experience but also emphasizes superior acoustics, appealing to those who prioritize a more engaging interaction with their keyboard. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, a clear distinction emerges in their top housings. The Fairy utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a rounder and duller audio experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade features a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it suitable for users who prefer a more defined auditory feedback. As such, users may find that the typing experience varies significantly between the two switches based on the materials used for the top housing.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Fairy and Magnetic Jade share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both models employ nylon. This choice underscores nylon's status as a classic material in switch design, providing a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing facilitates a familiarity in feel and sound when pressing the keys down. As a result, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience in terms of the bottoming-out sound and feel, emphasizing how the bottom housing plays a pivotal role in delivering the tactile feedback that users rely on.
In summary, the contrast lies primarily in the top housing materials, where the Fairy's nylon offers a softer, deeper acoustic experience compared to the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate, which delivers a sharper tone. However, the inclusion of nylon in both switches' bottom housings bridges the gap, ensuring that both models provide a robust and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, while users may appreciate the distinct sound profiles resulting from the different top housings, the shared characteristics of the nylon bottom housing ensure that a level of consistency in feel and sound remains present across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Fairy has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Fairy switch requires a stronger push to register a keypress, making it feel heavier and providing a more substantial typing experience, which some users might prefer for tactile feedback. In contrast, the lighter actuation force of the Jade means it could be easier on the fingers for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, appealing to those who favor a lighter touch. Although the bottom out force of the Magnetic Jade is slightly lower than that of the Fairy, both switches maintain a medium-light to medium classification, with the Fairy being the heavier option overall.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means the Fairy switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Magnetic Jade. In the context of contemporary preferences, gamers might lean toward the Akko Fairy due to its quicker response time associated with the shorter travel distance, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade's longer travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke, providing a sense of depth that some find more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus 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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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
When considering the sound qualities of the Akko Fairy linear switch, it is characterized as muted and neutral, making it ideal for office environments where the goal is to minimize distractions. The softer, quieter sound produced by the Fairy switches allows for a more discreet typing experience, which is essential in settings that require focus and minimal noise. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches are known for delivering a bright and clacky sound, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback during use. This striking sound profile could be less suitable for shared workspaces, where the noise could disrupt others.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the Akko Fairy is described as polished, mild, and subtle, ensuring a smooth and comfortable typing experience. The factory lubrication provides reduced friction, while the medium weight offers the right amount of resistance for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Such characteristics create an approachable typing experience that feels gentle and accommodating to users of all skill levels. Unfortunately, there is no specific information on the feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches to make a direct comparison. Therefore, the tactile experience of these switches remains an unknown variable.
In summary, while the Akko Fairy linear switch prioritizes a quiet, smooth, and refined typing experience suitable for professional settings, the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch favors a louder, more tactile sound that enhances the typing experience but may not be conducive to quieter environments. Ultimately, if you're navigating office work or looking for a gentle typing feel, the Fairy switches are the way to go; however, if you're seeking a lively and dynamic auditory experience, the Magnetic Jade switches will deliver that excitement, bearing in mind that the overall feel remains to be explored further.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a switch that provides a smooth and polished typing experience, especially in an office or quiet environment, the Akko Fairy is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom out force and muted sound profile make it ideal for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue or disturbing those around you. This makes the Fairy particularly suited for work settings where concentration is key. On the other hand, if you crave a more vibrant and clacky typing experience, particularly for gaming or creative tasks, the Gateron Magnetic Jade is perfect for you. With its slightly lighter actuation force and superior acoustics, this switch excels in providing a lively and engaging feedback that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you value a refined, quieter operation or a more dynamic and resonant sound.
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