Akko Fairy vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to choose between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Fairy switch is renowned for its smooth and medium-weight typing experience, making it perfect for office settings where a quiet and comfortable typing experience is essential. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a similar typing experience to the classic MX Red switch, but with the added benefit of operating silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Silent Red utilize nylon as the material for their switch housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder materials, creating a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in their housing materials suggest that both switches will offer a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both switches have nylon top and bottom housings, the impact of each housing material differs slightly in terms of the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is let go. Despite these slight differences, the overall typing experience between the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Silent Red is likely to be quite similar due to their shared use of nylon as a switch housing material.
In conclusion, the use of nylon as a switch housing material in both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Silent Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, creating a more satisfying typing experience overall. While the impact of the top and bottom housings may vary slightly in terms of sound production, the similarities in their housing materials indicate that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of other factors, such as actuation force or key feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Red's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Fairy is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Silent Red's bottom out force is not specified. This means that for those who prefer a slightly lighter actuation force, the Silent Red might be the better option, but for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Fairy would be more suitable. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of the overall feel of the switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Akko Fairy has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red. Gamers may prefer the Akko Fairy for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more hearty key press may lean towards the Cherry MX Silent Red with its longer travel distance. Both switches provide a different typing experience, with the Akko Fairy offering a quicker, more responsive feel, and the Cherry MX Silent Red providing a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch are known for their muted qualities, offering users a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. The Fairy switch provides a neutral sound profile that minimizes noise, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch not only operates silently but also produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and satisfying. Ultimately, both switches excel in reducing keyboard noise, but the MX Silent Red offers a unique and rich sound experience that may appeal to users seeking a quieter yet satisfying typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is polished and offers a mild and subtle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it a comfortable option for extended use, providing a refined and gentle typing feel. Conversely, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may be preferred by some users for its unique tactile feedback, providing a different typing experience compared to the smoothness of the Fairy switch. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feel, with the Fairy switch focusing on smoothness and comfort, while the MX Silent Red switch offers a more textured and tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch is ideal for office settings, providing a balanced typing experience with muted sound and polished feel, making it suitable for professional tasks. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch maintains a slightly heftier feel while operating silently, offering a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a satisfying yet quiet typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for users seeking a high-quality, linear mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using your keyboard. If you work in an office setting or require a keyboard for professional tasks that demand long typing sessions, the Akko Fairy switch may be the more suitable choice. With its medium weight and smooth typing experience, it offers comfort and a quieter workspace. On the other hand, if you are in a noise-sensitive environment and prioritize a silent typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch would be the better option. Its silent operation maintains the satisfying typing feel of the MX Red while significantly reducing sound output. Ultimately, your preference for typing feel and sound profile will guide you in choosing between these two switches.
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