Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches for your office setup, the Akko Fairy's linear switch and the Gateron Mini i's tactile switch are both excellent options to consider. The Fairy's linear switch is praised for its smooth typing experience, medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, and factory-applied lubrication for a quieter workspace conducive to extended use. On the other hand, the Mini i's tactile switch offers gentle tactility in each keystroke, a muted sound profile, and lightweight design ideal for long hours of comfortable typing without the intrusive clack. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs in an office setting. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Mini i utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This common choice means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is favored by many enthusiasts for its pleasing auditory feedback.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, differences may arise from variations in the design and construction of their housings. The Fairy and the Mini i may differ in the specific shape and design of their housing, which can impact the overall typing feel and sound. Additionally, the manufacturing processes used for each switch may also play a role in the final product, potentially leading to subtle variations in performance between the two switches despite their shared housing material.
Overall, the choice of nylon for both the top and bottom switch housings of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Mini i reflects a commitment to providing a high-quality typing experience. The use of nylon creates a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. While subtle differences may exist between the two switches due to variations in design and manufacturing, the shared housing material ensures that users can expect a similar level of performance and sound quality from both the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Mini i.
Weight
Comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, the Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Fairy also requires more pressure at 60 grams, while the Mini i needs 50 grams. This makes the Akko Fairy switch slightly heavier overall compared to the Gateron Mini i switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Mini i, as it has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Akko Fairy switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are popular among gamers for faster response times. The slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant to most users, but if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may be the better choice for you. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Gateron Mini i being the longer of the two.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most environments, whether it be at home or in the office. The Fairy switch, however, is noted to produce a more muted sound, offering a quieter typing experience compared to the Mini i switch. This can be attributed to the factory-applied lubrication on the Fairy switches, which helps dampen the sound of keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Fairy switch may be the better choice for you.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance and a light typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a lively, responsive, and low-impact typing feel with various levels of tactile feedback. If you prefer a switch that offers more tactile feedback and responsiveness, the Gateron Mini i switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a smoother feel, the Akko Fairy switch is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience, the Gateron Mini i switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to the environment in which you plan to use them and your personal preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings with its smooth typing experience and medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, the Akko Fairy linear switch is the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch that offers gentle tactility, a lightweight feel, and a fairly muted sound profile that is perfect for long hours of comfortable typing without being disruptive, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Consider your workspace needs, typing preferences, and desired level of noise when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and environments, so choose based on what best fits your needs.
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