Akko Fairy vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch with the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique benefits for different preferences. The Fairy switches from Akko are renowned for their smooth typing experience in office settings, thanks to their factory-applied lubrication and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switches, perfected by Cherry with Hyperglide tooling, offer a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile when typing. While the Fairy switches are categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, the MX Black switches are categorized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and specific needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Black switches utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material contributes to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound production for both switches.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the Fairy and the MX Black may have slight variations in their top and bottom housing designs. The division of housing qualities between the top and bottom can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. These subtle differences in housing design can slightly alter the tactile feedback and overall typing experience for users of the switches.
Overall, the choice of nylon as the housing material for both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Black switches results in a similar typing sound profile. The duller and rounder sound produced by the softer nature of nylon creates a unique typing experience that is preferred by many enthusiasts. While there may be variations in housing design between the two switches, the consistent use of nylon ensures a familiar sound profile that is rich and full when typing on either the Fairy or the MX Black switches.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience with their linear design. However, when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force, there are some key differences between the two. The Fairy has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Black's 60 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Fairy. Additionally, the Fairy has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the MX Black's heavier 80 grams, providing a softer typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch and less strain on their fingers during extended typing sessions, the Akko Fairy may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the MX Black's 4 mm distance. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the MX Black's slightly longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Fairy leaning towards the shallower end and the MX Black being closer to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, the Akko Fairy linear switch provides a muted and neutral typing experience, making it a suitable choice for office environments where a quieter keyboard is appreciated. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, characteristic of Cherry switches, which may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper tone while typing. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so personal preference plays a significant role in determining which switch sound is preferable.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience due to its refined finish and medium resistance level, providing a smooth and comfortable key press ideal for extended use. Conversely, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured and stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and potentially appealing to users who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their individual needs.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch each offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Fairy switch provides a quieter and smoother typing experience suitable for professional settings, the MX Black switch delivers a deeper sound profile and a more tactile key press. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, ensuring that users can find the switch that best matches their individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. Opt for the Akko Fairy if you work in an office setting and prioritize a smooth, quiet typing experience with a medium bottom out force. The Fairy switches are well-suited for daily professional tasks and extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy a classic, textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switches with their Hyperglide tooling are the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a more refined, polished typing experience with the Fairy switch or a more traditional, low-pitched typing experience with the MX Black switch. Ensure your choice aligns with your typing style and environment for the best overall satisfaction.
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