Akko Fairy vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch. The Akko Fairy switch is a linear switch best known for its ideal use in office settings. With factory-applied lubrication that results in a smooth typing experience, these switches offer a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, making them suitable for extended daily use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch presents a tactile typing experience with no specific standout feature to distinguish it. While the Fairy switch boasts attributes such as being polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Dustproof Brown remains unclassified. Each switch has its unique appeal, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches, we see a clear distinction in the materials used for the top housing. The Fairy's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer nature, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials have their unique qualities, they cater to different preferences in sound profile - with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound and polycarbonate offering a more vibrant and clear sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Fairy and Dustproof Brown feature nylon bottom housings, which share similar characteristics. The nylon material in the bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a similar typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Despite the differences in the top housing materials, having a consistent bottom housing material helps maintain a certain level of sound quality throughout the keystroke process.
Overall, the choice between the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches will largely come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Fairy offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Dustproof Brown provides a sharper and clearer sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their unique benefits, and selecting the right one will depend on whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a crisper and more resonant sound in your typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both fall into the medium weight category in terms of actuation force. The Fairy requires 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Dustproof Brown needs 45 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it slightly heavier in comparison. The Fairy allows for a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch, ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown offers a more solid push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force, with the Fairy being lighter and the Dustproof Brown being heavier.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Fairy offers a more responsive feel, ideal for gamers looking for faster response times, while the Dustproof Brown provides a deeper key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of travel distance, with the Fairy being shorter and the Dustproof Brown being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for key press depth.
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 Dustproof Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a muted and neutral typing experience, making it a great choice for office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two in terms of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In the realm of feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is lauded for its polished, mild, and subtle characteristics, providing users with a smooth and refined typing experience that is suitable for prolonged use. In contrast, information about the specific feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unavailable, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and typing feel. Both switches are designed to offer a comfortable typing experience, but without more details on the Dustproof Brown switch, it is unclear how it measures up to the Fairy switch.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch stands out for its quiet and comfortable typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office settings or for those who prefer a more subdued sound profile. While the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch may offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, without more information, it is difficult to determine how it directly compares to the Fairy switch. In conclusion, for those seeking a smooth and gentle typing experience with minimal noise, the Akko Fairy linear switch would be a reliable option, but the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch may also provide a similar experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, you should opt for the Fairy if you are looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience in an office environment. The Fairy's medium bottom out force and muted sound profile make it ideal for professional settings where comfort and minimal noise are important. On the other hand, choose the Dustproof Brown if you prefer a slightly heavier tactile switch without any specific standout characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize a refined and comfortable typing experience (Akko Fairy) or a medium-heavy tactile switch option (Outemu Dustproof Brown) for your keyboard setup.
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