Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences catered to different preferences and needs. The Fairy switch is perfect for office settings, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience due to its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight that balances resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the Melodic switch by Gateron offers a clicky sound and tactile feedback that enthusiasts enjoy, with advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. While the Fairy switch is more polished and muted, the Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and specific use cases. 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
60g
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
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
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Melodic switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Fairy's nylon top housing, while both switches share the deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to nylon in the bottom housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the material composition of the top housing plays a significant role. The Akko Fairy's clear nylon top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic's polycarbonate top housing is also clear, making it suitable for RGB lighting applications. Both switches capitalize on the translucency of their respective top housings to create a visually stunning effect when paired with RGB lighting. However, the use of different materials in the top housing results in distinct sound profiles, with the Melodic offering a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the Fairy's rounder and duller sound.
Lastly, the division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches impacts the typing experience in unique ways. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are more prominent when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. While both the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Melodic switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, the choice of polycarbonate for the Melodic's top housing results in a sharper and clearer sound compared to the Fairy's nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we see some differences. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Melodic has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling into the medium category. Both switches have the same bottom out force, but the Fairy is lighter in terms of actuation force. This difference may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Fairy compared to the Melodic. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with some users preferring the lighter actuation force of the Fairy for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Melodic for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of distance, the Fairy has a shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic. The Fairy's 3.3 mm distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Melodic's 4 mm distance provides a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper press when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for travel distance - shorter for a quicker response or longer for a more substantial feel.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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
The Akko Fairy linear switch is known for producing a muted sound, which is softer and quieter, ideal for office settings where a quiet workspace is essential. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a more resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience, reminiscent of classic clicky switches. When it comes to feel, the Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance, perfect for extended use without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Overall, while the Akko Fairy linear switch caters more towards a quiet and comfortable professional environment, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a more tactile and immersive typing sensation. Depending on personal preference, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches by selecting the appropriate keycaps and keyboard configuration to complement their choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and use case. If you are looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience ideal for office settings, the Akko Fairy switch with its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you desire a crisp clicky sound and tactile feedback that doesn't compromise on smoothness, the Gateron Melodic switch with its dual-railed stems and factory lubing may be more appealing. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize a quieter, more refined typing experience or a more immersive, clicky feel.
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