Akko Fairy vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and Haimu Orange Sea offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Akko Fairy switches shine in office settings, thanks to their factory-applied lubrication that not only enhances a smooth typing experience but also contributes to a quieter workspace. With a medium weight that provides just the right amount of resistance, they strike a balance between comfort and performance, making them suitable for long hours of typing. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches deliver an exceptionally smooth typing feel and a neutral sound signature, emphasizing a seamless experience that appeals to those who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes. While both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience, the Akko Fairy is tailored for professionals seeking a polished, muted touch, whereas the Haimu Orange Sea caters to users who value an effortless and smooth action. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Orange Sea, distinct differences emerge in their top housings, showcasing how material choices can significantly affect the overall typing experience. The Akko Fairy features a nylon top housing, characterized by its soft and absorptive nature. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon effectively dampens sound waves, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. As a result, its sound profile leans towards clarity and resonance, particularly enhanced for environments where RGB lighting is a factor due to the material's translucency.
Interestingly, both the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Orange Sea utilize nylon for their bottom housings, contributing to a unified acoustic experience that emphasizes a deeper sound profile regardless of the differences above. As noted, the nylon's softness leads to sound absorption, creating a consistent feeling of fullness that remains throughout the typing experience. This shared material choice means that, while the top sound may vary considerably between the two switches, the foundational qualities imparted by the bottom housing remain consistent. Consequently, users can expect a rounded and deep experience from the bottom-out sound and feel on both switches, creating a sense of familiarity.
In essence, the juxtaposition of different materials in the two switches demonstrates the intricate balance between the impact of housing materials on sound profiles. With the Akko Fairy's nylon top and bottom housings working together to produce a cohesive, smoothing effect, and the Haimu Orange Sea offering a dynamic auditory experience through its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, both switches cater to uniquely different sound preferences while maintaining a common element in their bottom housing. This nuanced interplay of materials not only signifies individual branding but also showcases how typing experiences can be sculpted through thoughtful design and material selection.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch present contrasting characteristics in both actuation force and bottom out force, catering to different typing preferences. The Fairy switch requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioning it in the medium range, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch is lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Orange Sea more suitable for users who favor a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions with less fatigue. Ultimately, individuals seeking a firmer keystroke may lean towards the Akko Fairy, while those prioritizing ease of use and comfort might find the Haimu Orange Sea to be a better fit.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that for users seeking a quicker response time, the Fairy, with its shorter travel distance, could provide a more immediate feel, making it particularly appealing to gamers who prioritize responsiveness. In contrast, the Orange Sea's greater travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. Consequently, if you favor quicker actuations, the Akko Fairy would be the better choice, whereas the Haimu Orange Sea may cater to those who appreciate a deeper typing experience. Overall, the distinction in travel distances suggests that users can expect different tactile experiences based on their preferences.
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 Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 is characterized by a muted and neutral profile, making it an excellent option for environments where quietness is essential, such as office settings. The muted quality significantly reduces the typical mechanical keyboard noise, allowing for a more subdued typing experience, while its neutral sound signature ensures it remains versatile enough for various uses, whether at home or work. This is especially beneficial for those who appreciate the tactile feedback of a mechanical switch without the audible distractions that may come with louder alternatives. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch remain unspecified, which leaves a gap in comparing the auditory experience directly.
In terms of feel, the Fairy switches shine with their polished, mild, and subtle characteristics. The factory-applied lubrication contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and fluid key travel. This combination ensures a gentle typing experience that is approachable for all users, whether beginners or seasoned typists. The balanced resistance provides a comfortable experience over extended periods, making them highly suitable for daily professional tasks. The Haimu Orange Sea switches, on the other hand, are noted for their impeccably smooth typing feel, but specific descriptors regarding their tactile feedback or resistance have not been mentioned, preventing a thorough comparison to the nuanced feel of the Fairy switches.
Overall, both the Akko Fairy and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches present distinct qualities suited to different user preferences. The Fairy proves ideal for those prioritizing a quiet, polished typing experience that accommodates extended use, especially in professional environments. Meanwhile, while the Orange Sea offers a smooth feel, the absence of sound and tactile feedback details slightly limits the depth of comparison. Nevertheless, regardless of the unknowns, users can expect smooth, pleasant typing experiences with both switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately depends on the context in which you'll be using your mechanical keyboard. If you frequently find yourself typing in an office environment or tackling extended periods of work, the Akko Fairy switch is an excellent option. With a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and its refined, factory-applied lubrication, it provides a smooth and polished typing experience that minimizes fatigue while offering a muted sound, making it ideal for quieter settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for casual use or gaming, the Haimu Orange Sea switch might be more suitable for you. With its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, it promises an effortlessly smooth typing feel and a neutral sound profile, which is great for fast-paced tasks or when speed is your priority. Overall, consider your typing habits and specific needs to choose the switch that will best enhance your experience.
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