Akko Fairy vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Brown stand out as popular options for different reasons. The Fairy switches are linear switches that are well-suited for office environments due to their smooth typing experience and medium weight, making them ideal for prolonged use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Browns are tactile switches known for their subtle tactility and quiet typing experience, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more delicate touch. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, catering to different preferences and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Brown utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
While both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Brown share nylon as their housing material, the impact of this material is divided between the top and bottom housing of the switches. The bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division in housing materials demonstrates how even slight variations in the composition of a switch can affect the overall typing experience. Despite this difference, both switches still offer a satisfying and consistent sound profile due to the qualities of nylon.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Brown play a significant role in enhancing the typing experience for users. The nylon material used in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a unique typing experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder sound. While the impact of the housing material may be slightly different between the two switches, the overall result is a similar typing experience that prioritizes sound quality and tactile feedback. Whether choosing the Akko Fairy or the Cherry MX Brown, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the qualities of the nylon housing material.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch both fall into the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Brown's 45 grams, making the MX Brown slightly lighter in this aspect. In terms of bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams of force while the MX Brown requires 55 grams, making the MX Brown again slightly lighter in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Akko Fairy may be the preferred option due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Akko Fairy switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Brown switch may be preferred by those who like a more substantial key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Brown 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 is known for its muted and neutral characteristics, creating a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for office environments and shared spaces. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. While both switches provide different auditory experiences, the overall sound can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap combination used.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is often described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is noted for its textured feel, which may vary in preference among users who either appreciate or prefer a smoother, friction-free typing sensation. Ultimately, the feel of a switch is a personal preference that can greatly impact the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings, while the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a gentle tactility and subtle audio feedback that may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use case. However, both switches can deliver satisfying results for users looking for a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you are in an office setting or need a quieter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Akko Fairy switch with its refined lubrication and comfortable feel may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light typing experience with gentle tactility and a low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a subtle and mellow typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific requirements of your typing needs and personal preferences.
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