Akko Fairy vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Oil King, both linear switches. The Akko Fairy is lauded for its refined and lubricated feel, making it an excellent choice for office settings where a smooth typing experience is crucial. Its medium weight strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, allowing for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King is praised for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This switch offers a low-pitched, creamy, and silky typing experience that many find enjoyable. 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
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Oil King share similarities as both utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon top housing. Essentially, users can expect a similar overall sound experience from both the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Oil King in terms of their top housing material.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Fairy features a nylon bottom housing which also contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King boasts a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that offers a distinct pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This unique blend results in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. Therefore, the bottom housing material of each switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound experience and feel when typing.
In essence, the choice between the Akko Fairy and the Gateron Oil King ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches share a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound, the bottom housing materials are where they diverge. The Fairy's nylon bottom housing contributes to a consistent sound profile, while the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a distinct clacky sound. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a pointed and higher-pitched sound, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that they both fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Fairy has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Oil King's 55 grams, while the Fairy also has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams in comparison to the Oil King's heavier 65 grams. This means that the Fairy switch would require a slightly lighter touch to register a keypress and to bottom out completely. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience without being too strenuous on the fingers. The difference in force between the two switches may be subtle, but it could make a significant impact for individuals who prefer a specific feel when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the Akko Fairy and Gateron Oil King switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing periods or a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy provides a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Oil King offers a longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying due to its deeper keypress feeling. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Fairy appealing to those desiring quick actions and the Oil King suiting those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in a linear switch.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a muted and neutral experience, making it perfect for office settings where a quieter typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch produces a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, reminiscent of a rich dark chocolate bar snapping. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Fairy being more subdued and the Oil King offering a deeper, more resonant tone.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch is known for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing sensation that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, with the Fairy leaning towards a safe middle-ground zone and the Oil King delivering a luxurious and buttery typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy and Gateron Oil King linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch is ideal for those looking for a quiet and refined typing experience, perfect for office settings and prolonged use. On the other hand, the Oil King switch provides a rich, deep sound profile and an exceptionally smooth, buttery feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Whether you choose the Fairy or Oil King switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that prioritizes comfort, smoothness, and a satisfying auditory experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a smoother and quieter typing experience, especially for office settings, the Akko Fairy switch with its factory-applied lubrication and medium bottom out force of 60 grams would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth feel with a rich sound profile, the Gateron Oil King switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and the specific environment in which you will be using your keyboard.
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