Akko Fairy vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique features catering to different preferences. The Akko Fairy is well-regarded for its smooth typing experience, thanks to its factory-applied lubrication, making it an excellent choice for office settings. With a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, the Fairy switch is ideal for extended daily use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch lacks a specific standout feature but is categorized as a tactile switch. This suggests that it may offer a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the Fairy. Deciding which switch to choose will depend on personal preferences and typing 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Maple Leaf utilize nylon as a housing material for their switches, providing a deep and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic creates a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
While both switches use nylon for their housing, the design of the top and bottom housings can vary between the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Maple Leaf. The qualities of the nylon material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This difference in housing design may result in subtle variations in sound and typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the similar use of nylon material in the housing of the Akko Fairy and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches ensures that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The soft and sound-absorbing nature of nylon enhances the overall typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound. Whether it be the Fairy's nylon top housing or the Maple Leaf's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that showcases the benefits of using nylon as a switch housing material.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams while the Maple Leaf needs 65 grams, making the Maple Leaf the heavier option overall. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a decent balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Fairy may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Maple Leaf offers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and feedback. The travel distance of 3.3 mm for both switches strikes a balance between providing a satisfying tactile response while also allowing for quick and efficient typing or gaming sessions. Overall, whether you choose the Fairy or the Maple Leaf, you can expect a similar experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Maple Leaf 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, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience in an office setting. The factory-applied lubrication enhances the smoothness of key presses, resulting in a polished and refined feel that reduces friction and ensures comfortable typing over long periods. The medium weight of the Fairy switch strikes a balance between resistance and fatigue, making it ideal for extended professional use without causing strain. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound and feel qualities are unknown. However, based on the information available, it can be inferred that the Fairy linear switch would provide a more refined and subtle typing experience compared to the Maple Leaf tactile switch. Both switches are designed to perform well in different environments and cater to a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office settings, offers a smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force, and produces a muted and polished sound and feel, then the Akko Fairy linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience, and are not particularly concerned about sound and feel descriptors, then the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch could be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them.
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