Akko Fairy vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they both offer unique features and benefits. The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, is known for its refined lubrication that provides a smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office settings. The medium weight of the Fairy switch strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, ideal for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu, also a linear switch, leverages advanced molds for enhanced stem stability and smoother key action. The use of POK in its stem sets it apart from other switches, offering a bouncy and clacky typing experience. Each switch has its own advantages - the Fairy for a quiet and comfortable workspace, and the Miaowu for a responsive and unique typing feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and the KTT Miaowu have different top housing materials, with the Fairy using nylon and the Miaowu using polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate in the Miaowu's housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material contributes to the overall feel and sound of each switch, offering users a unique typing experience based on their preference for sound and feel.
Contrastingly, both the Fairy and the Miaowu use nylon for their bottom housing material. Nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer plastic composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This consistency in material between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when utilizing the bottom housing. Despite any differences in the top housing material, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a certain level of familiarity for users who enjoy that specific sound profile.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. With the Akko Fairy featuring nylon for both top and bottom housings, users can expect a consistent and rounded sound profile throughout their typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a dynamic sound profile that is both sharp and resonant, offering users a unique typing experience that balances different sound qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, the key difference lies in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Miaowu's lighter 43 grams. Similarly, the Fairy also requires a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Miaowu's 50 grams. This means that the Fairy switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, while the Miaowu switch offers a lighter and smoother typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the Fairy for its heavier push feel, while others may opt for the Miaowu for a lighter and more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of a switch can impact typing comfort and endurance, making it important to choose the right one based on individual preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Miaowu switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Fairy switch. Typically, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Fairy linear switch offers a muted and neutral typing experience, making it suitable for quiet office environments where minimizing noise is important. On the other hand, the Miaowu linear switch provides a clacky sound profile, which can be crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a bit more auditory feedback to your typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Fairy linear switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance, suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. Conversely, the Miaowu linear switch is characterized by a bouncy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with lively key presses that give a sense of rebound. Whether you prefer a more subtle and gentle typing experience or a bouncier and more dynamic feel, both switches offer unique tactile qualities to cater to different preferences.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch is a great option for those seeking a quieter and more refined typing experience, with smooth key travel and medium weight resistance perfect for professional settings. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch stands out for its stability and smooth keystroke action, along with the unique POK stem material for enhanced performance. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer high-quality options that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the specific needs of your typing environment and style. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience with a medium weight that balances resistance and comfort, the Fairy switch from Akko is an excellent choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer enhanced stem stability, smoother keystroke action, and a lighter bottom out force, the Miaowu switch from KTT may be more suitable for you. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel preferences described for each switch to ensure the best match for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your specific needs.
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