Akko Fairy vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Fairy's refined lubrication and medium weight make it an optimal choice for office settings, providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience perfect for daily professional tasks. On the other hand, the Mallo's gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel offer subtle feedback without being overpowering, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. While the Fairy is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle', the Mallo is categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle'. These general pointers can help you decide which switch may be more suitable for your needs; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
The Akko Fairy and the KTT Mallo each feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Fairy's nylon top housing creates a deep and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, with its stiffer plastic providing a clear and resonant sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their housing materials.
On the other hand, both the Fairy and the Mallo feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a similar deep and full sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This shared material in the bottom housing of the switches ensures a consistent typing experience for users who appreciate the characteristics of nylon housing. While the top housing may play a role in the sound when keys are released, the bottom housing remains consistent in providing a deeper sound profile for both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches such as the Akko Fairy and the KTT Mallo greatly impacts the sound produced during typing. Whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, each material brings its own unique characteristics to the sound profile of the switch. While the Fairy's nylon housing offers a deeper tone, the Mallo's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper sound. In the end, the housing material chosen for a switch can greatly influence the user's typing experience and preferences.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams while the Mallo only needs 55 grams. This makes the Mallo slightly lighter when bottoming out. Both switches fall under the category of medium force switches, but the Fairy has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Mallo. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mallo for its lighter bottom out force, which could be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, those who enjoy a more substantial push may prefer the Fairy for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is clear that the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Mallo's 4 mm. Generally speaking, a shorter travel distance often results in a faster response time, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a more pronounced feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts the typing or gaming 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 KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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, both the Akko Fairy and KTT Mallo switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. The Fairy switch provides a muted sound, which is softer and quieter, ideal for office settings where noise should be minimized. On the other hand, the Mallo switch offers a more subdued sound, dampened when pressed but still subtle, making it versatile for different scenarios. The choice between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound and the overall typing experience desired.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished and mild typing experience, providing smooth and refined key travel with a gentle resistance. This makes it comfortable for extended use without causing fatigue, perfect for daily professional tasks. In contrast, the KTT Mallo switch offers a feathery and stepped typing feel, exceptionally light to press with two stages of tactility. This can reduce finger fatigue and provide a unique typing experience that may suit users who prefer a lighter touch.
Overall, both switches offer a balanced typing experience with their medium weight actuation force and moderate sound profiles. The Akko Fairy switch is more geared towards a polished, refined typing experience suitable for office environments, while the KTT Mallo switch provides a more subtle tactility and feathery feel that may appeal to users seeking a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a balanced weight and a muted sound profile, the Fairy switch may be the ideal choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you enjoy a subtle tactile feedback with a medium-light typing feel and a subdued sound signature, the Mallo switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your individual typing style and the specific demands of your typing environment.
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