Akko Fairy vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Fairy switches are perfect for office environments, offering a smooth and comfortable typing experience with their factory-applied lubrication and medium weight that balances resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches provide a solid and responsive feel, ideal for those who enjoy a sharp bottom-out and tactile feedback. While the Fairy switch provides a quieter and more subdued typing experience, the Matcha Green Pro switch offers a more pronounced sound profile that many typists and gamers will appreciate. 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
63g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, one key difference is found in the top housing. The Fairy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound and producing a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. While the Fairy's nylon top housing is ideal for those seeking a softer typing experience, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing is better suited for users who prefer a more distinct and precise sound.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housing materials, both the Fairy and the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. As a result, both keyboards provide a similar duller and rounder sound when typing. While the choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures consistency in sound profile for both switches, it also means that users can expect a familiar typing experience regardless of the model chosen.
Overall, the different housing materials used in the Akko Fairy and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Fairy's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Although both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile, the choice between the two models ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound characteristics and typing feel. Ultimately, whether opting for the Fairy or the V3 Matcha Green Pro, both keyboards promise a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch both fall into the medium weight category when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Fairy has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 55 grams. Similarly, the Fairy has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is lighter than the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 63 grams. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Fairy being slightly lighter for those who prefer a softer touch, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Fairy or the V3 Matcha Green Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Fairy's 3.3 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for those seeking quick response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance, with the Fairy offering a shorter and more responsive feel, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a slightly longer and more tactile 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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral profile, making it a great choice for a quiet office environment where minimizing noise is essential. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound, providing a sharp and lively auditory experience that can be quite satisfying for typists and gamers alike. Both switches will deliver distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Fairy being more subdued and the V3 Matcha Green Pro offering a more pronounced and engaging sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is characterized by its polished, mild, and subtle qualities, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. This makes it suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing a lively and smooth keystroke that enhances the overall typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences, with the Fairy providing a more subtle and gentle typing experience and the V3 Matcha Green Pro offering a more dynamic and buttery feel.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience suitable for professional settings, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch delivers a more engaging and tactile feedback ideal for those seeking a lively and responsive keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a unique typing experience that will cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office settings, offers a smooth typing experience with medium resistance, and produces a muted and neutral sound, then the Akko Fairy linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that provides a substantial and satisfying keystroke, has a sharp and resonant sound profile, and offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, then the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and use case scenarios.