Akko Fairy vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, casual and professional typists alike often find themselves drawn to the unique characteristics of different options. The Akko Fairy switch stands out as an excellent choice for workplace environments, thanks to its refined, factory-applied lubrication that ensures a smooth and quiet typing experience. With a medium weight that strikes a superb balance between resistance and comfort, the Fairy ensures long typing sessions remain fatigue-free and enjoyable for daily tasks. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch, crafted by BSUN, offers a more vibrant auditory profile, combining a high-pitched sound with a muted essence for an engaging keystroke experience that remains subtly present without overwhelming the senses. The addition of Ly in the stem material promotes a silky feel, making typists feel as though their keystrokes flow effortlessly. For those prioritizing a tranquil work atmosphere, the Akko Fairy provides a polished and understated option, while the PH Studio Milk Tea appeals to those who enjoy a bit more liveliness in their typing with its unique sound profile. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and PH Studio Milk Tea switches exhibit both similarities and differences that influence their overall sound profiles and tactile feedback. Both switches use nylon for the Fairy's housings, while the Milk Tea utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is characterized by its softer nature, leading to deeper, fuller sound profiles that tend to absorb sound more effectively. This results in a rounder, more muted typing experience. In contrast, POM, while also producing a deeper sound, has its own distinct sound characteristics that are described as uniquely pleasing. The inherent properties of POM allow for a more refined and controlled sound than traditional plastics like nylon, resulting in a different auditory experience even if both switches aim for a depth in sound.
When comparing the effects of the different materials on overall performance, the nylon used in the Fairy's top and bottom housings produces a consistent auditory profile throughout. The sound produced is characterized by its softer, rounder qualities, giving users a coherent sound experience with a focus on the bottom-out feel when pressed down. On the other hand, the POM construction in the Milk Tea switches may create a slightly different tactile sensation and audible feedback. The separation of sound characteristics between the top and bottom housings in the Milk Tea design leads to a more divided experience wherein the top diverts from the bottom characteristics. Thus, while there's a shared pursuit for a deeper sound profile in both switches, their distinct materials lend themselves to different interpretations and experiences during typing.
Despite these differences, it’s important to note that both the nylon and POM materials aim to create a similar depth in sound profile, albeit through different acoustic properties. This means that while the specific tactile feel and auditory qualities may vary, users might still achieve comparable results by manipulating typing technique or switch tuning. For instance, experienced typists could find ways to optimize their keystrokes to adapt to the characteristics of either material, thus creating a more cohesive experience when transitioning between the two. Regardless of the distinct material choices, both switches have been crafted to evoke a unique typing sensation that is deeply satisfying for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Fairy features a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a slightly heavier option suited for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch is characterized by a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, which caters to users who prefer quicker keystrokes and less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. Thus, users looking for a lighter and faster response should lean towards the Milk Tea switch, while those who enjoy a firmer feel may prefer the Akko Fairy switch for its added weight. Overall, the Akko Fairy offers a more robust typing experience, while the Milk Tea switch provides an easier, more effortless action.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Fairy switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Milk Tea switch. For gamers who prioritize responsiveness, the Fairy switch may be a more appealing choice due to its reduced travel distance, allowing for faster key presses and more rapid response times. Conversely, the Milk Tea switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and deliberate typing experience, appealing to those who favor a deeper feel when pressing keys. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will largely depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus the depth of actuation.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it's clear that they present contrasting auditory profiles. The Fairy switch is characterized by a muted and neutral sound, making it particularly suitable for quieter environments, such as office settings. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch features a more pronounced sound profile, described as clacky, high-pitched, and marbly. It produces a sharp, vibrant auditory experience that can be quite engaging but may not be ideal for noise-sensitive surroundings. While the Fairy's subdued tones contribute to a more harmonious workspace, the Milk Tea's lively sounds can add an element of auditory satisfaction for those who prefer a more dynamic typing experience.
In terms of feel, both switches exhibit polished characteristics that afford a smooth typing experience. The Fairy offers a mild and subtle resistance, making it comfortable for extended use without overwhelming fatigue. Its refined finish, aided by factory lubrication, results in reduced friction during key travel. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch also boasts a polished feel, presenting a silky typing experience with minimal resistance. While the Fairy's slightly more restrained touch makes it more approachable for a broader range of users, the Milk Tea switch's silky texture can enhance tactile pleasure for those who appreciate a smooth keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Akko Fairy and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches present unique offerings, making them appealing to different types of mechanical keyboard users. The Fairy excels in providing a muted auditory experience with a mild feel, perfect for professional environments. Conversely, the Milk Tea switch offers a lively sound and a silky touch that might be more satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound and tactile feedback; if you seek a quieter typing environment, the Fairy should suffice, while the Milk Tea caters to those who desire a more vibrant and textured keystroke.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch will largely depend on your specific typing preferences and usage environment. If you find yourself in an office or shared workspace where minimizing noise is paramount, the Akko Fairy is your best bet. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, coupled with its polished feel and muted sound profile, offers an excellent balance of comfort and resistance, making it ideal for long hours of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more lively and experiential typing sound and feel, the Milk Tea switch may be more suited for your needs. Its lighter actuation at 43.5 grams, along with its clacky and high-pitched audio signature, provides an engaging auditory feedback that many tactile typists relish. This switch’s silky typing experience allows for quick, effortless keystrokes—perfect for gaming or typing at home where noise isn’t a concern. Ultimately, both switches offer polished experiences, but your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a quieter, comfortable typing experience or a more vibrant, audibly engaging one.
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