Akko Fairy vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and Akko Penguin stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Fairy, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth typing experience in office settings, thanks to its factory-applied lubrication that guarantees a satisfying press without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Penguin, a tactile switch, offers a silent typing experience with a rounded tactile bump that provides feedback without generating noise, making it ideal for noise-sensitive office environments. While the Fairy is more suited for those who prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the Penguin caters to individuals who value tactility and quiet operation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Akko Penguin, both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings, share similar characteristics in providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in both keyboards showcases a preference for sound quality and tactile feedback in typing experience.
While the Fairy and Penguin both use nylon for their housing materials, the impact of these materials differs in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how subtle variations in housing materials can affect different aspects of keyboard performance.
Overall, the similarity in housing materials between the Akko Fairy and Akko Penguin allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings reflects a commitment to providing a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for users. By prioritizing the qualities that nylon brings to the switches, both keyboards demonstrate a focus on enhancing the overall user experience through thoughtful material selection.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch both have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a similar typing experience when fully pressed. However, the Fairy has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Penguin's 43 grams, making the Fairy switch slightly heavier to activate. This means that the Fairy switch may require a bit more force to initiate a keystroke compared to the Penguin switch.
When considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Akko Penguin switch due to its lower actuation force. This lighter actuation force can help reduce fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Akko Fairy switch with its slightly higher actuation force for a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be said that both switches offer a consistent and similar tactile experience in terms of key press depth. This means that whether you choose the Fairy linear switch or the Penguin tactile switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance. Therefore, the feel and performance of these switches will be consistent, with both providing a satisfying typing experience without one having a shorter or longer travel distance than the other.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch are described as having a muted and neutral sound profile. This means that they produce softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, making them suitable for quieter environments like offices. The choice of board and keycaps can also impact the overall sound produced by the switches.
In terms of feel, both the Fairy and Penguin switches are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. They offer a mild typing feel, striking a balance between being gentle and approachable for most users. The Fairy switch is noted for its subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being too feather-light, while the Penguin switch is highlighted for its feathery actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer a pleasant typing experience with their medium weight, polished finish, and muted sound profile. Depending on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, both options cater to users looking for a comfortable and quiet typing experience, especially in office settings where noise minimization is essential. With their similar qualities in sound and feel, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of typing comfort and performance, ultimately making either choice a suitable option for daily professional tasks.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Akko Fairy linear switches and Akko Penguin tactile switches, consider the environment in which you will be using them. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings, providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience while minimizing noise, the Fairy linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet workspace but still desire a satisfying tactile feedback with each keypress, the Penguin tactile switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a smooth typing experience with a balanced weight or a quiet and tactile response in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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