Akko Fairy vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Haimu Neo White linear switch, both switches offer a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between satisfying key presses and comfortable extended use. The Akko Fairy switch is ideal for office settings with its refined lubrication for a smooth typing experience, while the Haimu Neo White switch stands out with its slightly reduced total travel and smooth actuation. The Fairy switch is categorized as polished, muted, and subtle, whereas the Neo White switch falls under mild and neutral categories. Each switch has its own unique strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and the Haimu Neo White both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, with the Fairy sporting a nylon top housing and bottom housing, while the Neo White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, the different top housings of polycarbonate and nylon create varying sound profiles. The Fairy's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound, while the Neo White's polycarbonate top housing yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the Haimu Neo White stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which allows for a clear and translucent appearance that is ideal for utilizing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy's nylon top housing provides a more traditional and opaque look. Despite the visual differences, both switches offer unique sound qualities based on their housing materials. The Neo White's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, contrasting with the Fairy's nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Neo White comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials, with the Fairy providing a softer and fuller sound profile due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Neo White offers a crisper and more resonant sound thanks to its polycarbonate top housing. Whether one prefers a more traditional sound profile with the Akko Fairy or a more modern and clear sound with the Haimu Neo White, both switches deliver unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, we can see some differences. The Akko Fairy has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Neo White's unknown actuation force. However, the Fairy has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Neo White has a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Akko Fairy may be the better option, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer slightly shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Akko Fairy switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, users who prefer a bit more depth and feedback may lean towards the Haimu Neo White switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance 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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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, both the Akko Fairy and Haimu Neo White switches fall under the category of neutral switches, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most environments. The Fairy switch, however, is known for its muted quality, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to the slightly more neutral sound of the Neo White switch. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience. The Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, offering a refined finish that results in sleek key travel with reduced friction. It falls under the category of mild switches, which provide a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch also falls under the category of mild switches, offering a smooth actuation and a satisfying typing feel. Both switches are designed to provide a comfortable typing experience without causing excessive fatigue.
Overall, the Akko Fairy and Haimu Neo White linear switches share similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile and a smooth typing experience, making them suitable for various environments including office settings. Whether you choose the Fairy for its slightly muted sound or the Neo White for its distinctive typing feel, you can expect a satisfying and comfortable typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of your workspace.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you value a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Fairy switch from Akko would be an excellent choice, especially for office settings where a quieter workspace is desired. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly reduced total travel and a distinctive typing feel with a medium bottom out force, the Neo White switch from Haimu may be more suitable for you. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with moderate sound profiles, so it ultimately depends on whether you prioritize smoothness and refinement (Fairy) or a unique typing feel (Neo White). Make your decision based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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