Akko Fairy vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct features to consider. The Fairy switches from Akko are praised for their factory-applied lubrication, providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings. With a medium weight that strikes the perfect balance between resistance and press satisfaction, the Fairy switches offer a quieter workspace and are conducive to extended use. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are favored for their sharp tactile bump, giving typists a pronounced and satisfying typing feel. These switches also produce a unique sound frequency that is lower than average, adding an extra dimension to the 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Fairy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the Blueberry's POM top housing produces a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both materials contribute to a rich sound experience, the nylon top housing of the Fairy may offer a slightly softer typing experience compared to the POM top housing of the Blueberry.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon and POM materials, respectively, to enhance their sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Fairy provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry contributes to a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While the materials differ, both switches aim to provide a high-quality sound experience that is distinct to their individual housing compositions.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that each type of material plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing is responsible for influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing significantly impacts the sound when releasing a key. While the Fairy and Blueberry switches may utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by each material ultimately converge to create a cohesive sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Fairy has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Blueberry's 55 grams, making the Fairy easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams while the Blueberry demands a heavier 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Fairy switch, while those who enjoy a more forceful typing experience may opt for the Blueberry switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, offering a variety of options for keyboard users.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Fairy switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Blueberry switch may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. Both switches offer a different feel when pressed, so selecting the appropriate switch will ultimately determine the overall typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for office environments where a quieter typing experience is desired. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound when typing, providing a unique auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the softer and more subtle sound of the Fairy switch, while others may enjoy the sharp and resonant sound of the Blueberry switch.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is known for being snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, offering a more responsive and tactile typing feel with pronounced feedback and varying levels of actuation force. Depending on individual preferences for typing feel, one may lean towards the smoother and gentler experience of the Fairy switch or the more tactile and responsive feel of the Blueberry switch.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch is best suited for those seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience, ideal for office use and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch caters to users who prefer a sharper tactile bump and a more pronounced feedback, providing a livelier and more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a balanced medium weight, the Akko Fairy would be a great choice for office use or extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency for a more engaging and lively typing feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be ideal. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize comfort and quietness or sharp tactility and a unique sound profile. Choose wisely based on what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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