Akko Fairy vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique typing experiences are the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. The Akko Fairy switches are praised for their smooth typing experience, perfect for office settings due to their refined lubrication and comfortable medium weight that strikes a balance between satisfying key presses and avoiding fatigue. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are known for their maximum tactility, offering a sharp and clean clack with each press for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. While the Fairy switches excel in providing a quieter and more comfortable typing experience for extended use, the POM T1 switches cater to those who enjoy a punchy and invigorating typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Fairy using nylon for both and the T1 using POM for both. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings produce a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Despite these differences, both housing materials contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience by creating distinct sound profiles.
While the Fairy and the T1 utilize the same housing materials for both top and bottom, the impact of these materials differs based on the position within the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, influencing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released, adding another layer to the typing sound profile. This split in qualities between the top and bottom housings showcases how each material interacts differently with the key press, adding complexity and depth to the typing experience.
Overall, both the Akko Fairy with its nylon housing and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) with its POM housing offer unique typing experiences characterized by their distinct sound profiles. While nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound, POM produces a more muted and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side. The differences in sound profile between the two housing materials highlight how the choice of material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with each material providing its unique contribution to the sound produced.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy. The Fairy is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the POM T1 (Sunflower). The lighter actuation force of the Fairy may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use, while the heavier bottom out force of the POM T1 (Sunflower) may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing pressure and overall typing experience desired.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we see that the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the longer 4 mm travel distance of the POM T1. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the POM T1's longer travel distance may offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference as to which one would be the best fit for individual needs.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 more muted and neutral experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant and neutral sound profile, with a sharper and cleaner clack. Both switches cater to different auditory preferences, with the Fairy being more subdued and the POM T1 delivering a punchier sound. However, the overall sound is also influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch offers a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced friction. It strikes a balance between comfort and feedback, making it suitable for extended use. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feel, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that enhances typing precision and satisfaction. The T1 offers a more intense and responsive typing experience compared to the Fairy switch, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Fairy switch provides a quieter and more subdued experience, ideal for office settings and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the POM T1 switch delivers a punchier and more tactile typing experience, with a sharper sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Fairy focusing on comfort and the T1 emphasizing tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings, the Fairy switch with its medium weight and muted sound profile could be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility and a sharp tactile bump that offers a satisfying feedback, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch with its resonant sound profile and sharp feel might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to whether you value a quieter typing experience or a more tactile one.
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