Akko Fairy vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switches from Akko are renowned for their smooth typing experience, thanks to factory-applied lubrication, making them an excellent choice for office settings. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust and tactile typing experience. While the Fairy switch offers a more polished and muted typing experience, the MX Red switch delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound. 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Red both feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them similar in terms of the material used for construction. The nylon material in both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch, giving a satisfying auditory experience to the user.
However, while both switches use nylon for their housings, they may still have differences in the overall typing experience. The distribution of the qualities brought by the nylon material may vary between the top and bottom housing of each switch. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. These subtle differences could lead to variations in typing feel and sound between the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Red.
In conclusion, despite both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Red utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings, potential differences in the distribution of the properties of nylon within each housing could result in varying typing experiences. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon material's ability to absorb sound effectively. Whether the differences in housing structure impact the overall typing experience significantly would require a hands-on comparison between the two switches. Nonetheless, users can expect a similar sound profile and typing feel when using switches with nylon housings like the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Red.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience with a linear actuation style. However, when it comes to actuation and bottom out force, there are some differences between the two. The Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the MX Red's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Fairy switch provides a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier touch, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the MX Red switch offers a lighter actuation force, which can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the MX Red's 4 mm. The Fairy switch's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are becoming more popular in the industry. On the other hand, the MX Red switch's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter and quicker response or a longer and more tactile experience when typing or gaming.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red 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 it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral characteristics, producing a softer and quieter sound that is suitable for office environments where noise levels need to be controlled. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience that some users may prefer for a more immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, as well as the overall setup of the keyboard.
In regard to feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is characterized by its polished, mild, and subtle qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is mentioned to have a textured feel, which may provide a different tactile sensation due to noticeable friction when pressed. The choice between the two switches will primarily come down to individual preferences regarding the smoothness and level of feedback desired during typing sessions.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch each bring their unique characteristics to the table when it comes to sound and feel. While the Fairy switch offers a quieter and more refined typing experience suitable for professional settings, the MX Red switch provides a deeper sound profile and potentially more tactile feedback for users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke sensation. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's preferences, making them solid choices in the realm of linear mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings and prioritizes a smooth, comfortable typing experience with a medium weight and muted sound profile, the Akko Fairy linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel, deeper sound profile, and a more robust typing experience, the Cherry MX Red linear switch may be more up your alley. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize comfort and quietness or a more tactile and audibly satisfying typing experience.
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