Akko Fairy vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch both offer unique advantages. The Akko Fairy switches are perfect for office settings due to their smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to the factory-applied lubrication. Their medium weight provides just the right amount of resistance for comfortable typing without causing fatigue, making them an ideal choice for extended use. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switches lack a specific standout feature like the Akko Fairy's lubrication but are known for their satisfying clicky feedback. While the Fairy switches offer a polished and muted typing experience, the Dustproof Green switches provide a more intense and tactile typing sensation. In general, the Fairy switches are better suited for a quieter workspace and professional tasks, whereas the Dustproof Green switches are great for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches have a notable contrast in terms of sound profiles. The Fairy's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Dustproof Green's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic composition that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. This results in a distinct difference in the typing experience and overall sound output of the switches.
Despite their differences in sound profiles, both the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housings. This commonality leads to a similar typing experience in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the softer plastic material. However, the top housing materials of the switches, nylon for the Fairy and polycarbonate for the Dustproof Green, create a noticeable variation in sound characteristics when typing on the switches. This highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of a switch can significantly impact the typing experience. The bottom housing material plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction emphasizes the importance of carefully selecting housing materials to achieve the desired sound profile and typing feel for mechanical switches like the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Dustproof Green. Overall, understanding the unique properties of different housing materials is essential for customizing and fine-tuning mechanical keyboards to suit individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is clear that there are differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Fairy has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Green's 65 grams, making the Fairy more sensitive to keystrokes. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Fairy at 60 grams is also lighter than the Dustproof Green's 80 grams, indicating that the Fairy provides a less strenuous typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions would likely prefer the Fairy, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Dustproof Green. Overall, the Fairy offers a lighter and more sensitive typing experience, while the Dustproof Green provides a heavier and more forceful keystroke.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch at 4 mm. The Fairy offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend 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 Dustproof Green 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
The Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to more clacky switches. This makes it a suitable choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise levels need to be minimized. In terms of feel, the Fairy switch is described as polished and mild, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have any specific descriptions available for sound or feel qualities. However, based on the information provided, it is likely that the Fairy linear switch will offer a more subdued and ergonomic typing experience compared to the Dustproof Green clicky switch. Ultimately, when choosing between the two, if you prioritize a quieter and more comfortable typing experience, the Akko Fairy linear switch would be the ideal choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience suitable for office settings with a medium bottom out force, then the Akko Fairy linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch would be more suitable for you. Consider the environment you will be using the keyboard in, your typing style, and your sound preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits your needs best.
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