Akko Fairy vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switches are ideal for office settings, boasting factory-applied lubrication for a smooth typing experience and a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. This makes them suitable for creating a quieter workspace and supporting extended daily professional tasks. On the other hand, the Piano Pro switches are known for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and pleasing tactile experience. While the Fairy switches offer a muted and subtle typing experience, the Piano Pro switches provide a bouncy and clacky feel. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are both made of nylon, a classic switch material known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to other plastics, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound. This results in a unique typing experience that is characterized by a rich sound with each keystroke. Both keyboards offer a similar sound experience due to their shared use of nylon in their top and bottom housings.
However, while both keyboards utilize nylon in their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the typing experience based on how the nylon is implemented. The Fairy and the V3 Piano Pro may vary in the texture or thickness of the nylon used, leading to slight differences in sound profiles when typing on the switches. Additionally, the design and construction of the housings, such as the internal components or shape, may also impact the overall typing feel and sound. Despite these potential differences, both keyboards are likely to provide a satisfying and consistent typing experience due to the shared use of nylon in their housing materials.
Overall, the nylon top and bottom housings of the Akko Fairy and the Akko V3 Piano Pro play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper sound profile with a fuller sound, adding to the overall typing experience. Whether pressing down on a key or releasing it, the nylon housing materials contribute to a consistent and enjoyable typing experience on both keyboards. In this way, the housing materials of the two keyboards may provide a similar typing experience, despite any potential differences in their design or construction.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a key role in determining the typing experience. The Akko Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Akko V3 Piano Pro, making it a bit more resistant to accidental keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams of force to fully press a key, while the V3 Piano Pro only needs 55 grams, giving it a lighter overall typing feel. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Akko Fairy, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the Akko V3 Piano Pro. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of force required, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in typing feel and the desired weight of the switch for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance, offering a slightly faster and more responsive typing experience compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch. However, the V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a bit more depth and tactile feedback due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro 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, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for a professional environment. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a more vibrant and resonant sound profile, with a distinct clacky and resonant quality that adds a lively and sharp auditory charm to each keystroke. Depending on your preference, the Fairy switch offers a more subdued sound, while the V3 Piano Pro switch provides a more pronounced and percussive sound.
Moving on 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. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Fairy switch focusing on a subtle and approachable feel, while the V3 Piano Pro switch delivers a more lively and smooth sensation.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter and more professional typing experience, with a focus on comfort and smoothness. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch caters to individuals who appreciate a more vibrant and snappy typing experience, with a focus on liveliness and crispness. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that align with your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a moderate bottom out force and muted sound profile, the Fairy switch may be the preferred choice, especially for office settings where a quieter workspace is desired. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy sound signature with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a touch of bounciness in the typing feel, the V3 Piano Pro switch could be the ideal option, particularly for those seeking a more lively and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
