Akko Fairy vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Akko Fairy and Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to understand their key features and differences. The Akko Fairy, with its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight, offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience, making it a great choice for office settings. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is designed for maximum speed and rapid response, perfect for gamers looking for that competitive edge. While the Fairy switch is known for its muted and subtle feel, the Speed Silver switch stands out with its low spring resistance and textured key press. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a similar typing experience for both switches. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic of nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, adding a unique touch to the overall typing experience of both switches.
In terms of differences, the Fairy and MX Speed Silver may have variations in the design and shape of their housing materials. The specific design of the housing can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on the switch. Additionally, the manufacturing process of the housing materials may differ between the two switches, resulting in subtle differences in sound and feel. These variations in the housing design and manufacturing process can influence the overall typing experience for users.
Despite potential differences in design and manufacturing processes, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Akko Fairy and Cherry MX Speed Silver ensures a consistent and familiar typing experience for users. The deep and full sound profile, as well as the softer plastic that absorbs sound, will be present in both switches, providing a similar tactile sensation while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the Fairy and MX Speed Silver may come down to individual preferences in terms of design, key feel, and overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams. However, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the MX Speed Silver due to its lower actuation force, which allows for a quicker keystroke. On the other hand, the Fairy may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, as it has a higher bottom out force. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance, making them popular choices for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the MX Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly deeper feel when typing or gaming compared to the Fairy switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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
The Akko Fairy linear switch offers a muted sound profile, making it a great choice for office settings where noise levels need to be minimized. The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, on the other hand, produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and satisfying, catering more towards gamers who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. In terms of feel, the Fairy switch provides a polished, mild and subtle typing experience with reduced friction and gentle key travel, ideal for comfortable prolonged use in professional environments. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver switch is textured, offering noticeable friction that may appeal to users looking for a more tactile feedback during intense gaming sessions. Overall, while the Akko Fairy and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches have different sound and feel characteristics, both provide quality linear switch options catering to different user preferences with the Fairy excelling in a quieter, smooth typing feel and the MX Speed Silver focusing on rapid response and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and intended use case.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings, the Akko Fairy linear switch with its medium weight and factory-lubricated design is a great choice. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking maximum speed and instant response, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch with its low spring resistance and linear action is the way to go. The Fairy switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, perfect for a quieter workspace, while the MX Speed Silver provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, ideal for gaming environments. In terms of feel, the Fairy switch gives a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, while the MX Speed Silver offers a textured feel for those who prefer a bit more friction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences and needs, whether it be for work, gaming, or general typing tasks.
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