Akko Fairy vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs, you may come across the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Cream Pink, both linear switches. The Fairy switches from Akko are praised for their factory-applied lubrication that provides a smooth typing experience, making them an excellent choice for office settings. With a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, the Fairy switches are ideal for extended daily use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Cream Pink switch from Outemu does not have a specific standout feature. However, the lack of distinct characteristics may appeal to those who prefer a straightforward and reliable linear switch. Both switches have their strengths and unique qualities. 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
50g
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
Partial box
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 Outemu Cream Pink switches utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches made with this material. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics, providing a unique typing sensation for users of both the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Cream Pink switches.
While the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Cream Pink switches are the same, it is important to note that the design and construction of the switches can still impact the overall typing experience. The Fairy's nylon top housing and bottom housing may be designed differently from the Cream Pink's, which could potentially impact the sound profile and feel of the switch. For example, the bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. These subtle differences in design can affect the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Cream Pink switches offer a similar typing experience due to their common use of nylon as the housing material. Both switches will provide a deep and full sound profile, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. While the design of the top and bottom housing may vary between the two switches, the overall typing sensation will be comparable in terms of the sound produced. Users can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience with either the Akko Fairy or the Outemu Cream Pink switches, thanks to the qualities that nylon brings to the table.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a difference. The Fairy has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Cream Pink has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Cream Pink slightly heavier than the Fairy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Fairy, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Cream Pink. Both switches provide a medium actuation force, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cream Pink has a longer travel distance than the Fairy, making it the more traditional option between the two. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Fairy's shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Cream Pink for its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different benefits, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but it is important to note that the perceived sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. The Outemu Cream Pink's feel qualities are not provided, but it is essential to consider that a switch with similar characteristics to the Fairy would likely provide a comparable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch stands out for its refined lubrication, medium weight, muted sound, and polished feel, making it a suitable choice for office environments and professional tasks. While information about the Outemu Cream Pink's sound and feel characteristics is not available, it is essential to consider how these switches align with individual preferences and typing needs to make an informed decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it is recommended to try them out firsthand to determine which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings, offering a smooth typing experience with a medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort for extended use, then the Akko Fairy switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and have specific preferences for sound and feel, the Outemu Cream Pink switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual typing style, environment, and personal preferences.
Mentioned in this article
