Akko Fairy vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and the KTT Purple Click offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth and refined typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office settings. With factory-applied lubrication and a medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort, the Fairy switch is ideal for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click, a clicky switch, stands out for its high-pitched, satisfying click and light keystrokes that provide a pronounced tactility. While the Fairy switch is categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Purple Click switch is described as crunchy, invigorating, resonant, and stepped. Both switches have their own unique qualities, catering to different preferences and 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
40g
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
4.00 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
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the KTT Purple Click, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. Interestingly, both the Fairy and the Purple Click leverage these qualities of nylon for their bottom housings, providing a similar tactile experience for users.
However, where the two switches differ significantly is in their top housing materials. The Akko Fairy features a nylon top housing, while the KTT Purple Click opts for a polycarbonate top housing. This contrast in materials leads to a stark difference in sound profiles when typing on the switches. The Fairy's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing a softer and more absorbent quality. In comparison, the Purple Click's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, due to its stiffer composition that results in a more resonant sound profile.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the Fairy and the Purple Click offer distinct tactile feedback based on their housing materials. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing is more prominent in the sound produced when releasing a key. By incorporating different housing materials for the top and bottom, both switches effectively balance the qualities of their respective materials to create a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Fairy has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Purple Click's 40 grams, making the Fairy slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams while the Purple Click needs 55 grams, again making the Fairy the heavier option. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the Fairy is slightly heavier overall. This means that the Fairy will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Purple Click will offer a lighter touch more suitable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. In comparison, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more tactile experience while typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and keypress feedback.
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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 muted typing experience, providing a softer and quieter sound that is ideal for office settings. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch produces a more resonant, higher-pitched sound profile that is often associated with clicky switches. The Purple Click switch delivers a satisfying crunch with each keystroke, creating an immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and environment, users can choose between the subdued sound of the Fairy switch or the crisp sound of the Purple Click switch.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is polished and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch provides an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation. The Purple Click switch is described as stepped, offering tactile feedback with two distinct stages in the keystroke process. Users can choose between the gentle and approachable feel of the Fairy switch or the more dynamic and responsive feel of the Purple Click switch based on their typing style and preferences.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience for office use, while the Purple Click switch delivers a satisfying click and tactile feedback that is invigorating for typing enthusiasts. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and environments, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, consider the specific needs of your typing environment and preferences. If you value a smooth and quiet typing experience for office settings, the Fairy switch with its medium bottom out force and muted sound profile could be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a crisp and satisfying click with light keystrokes and a resonant sound, the Purple Click switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and the specific requirements of your daily use. Experimenting with different switches can also help you find the perfect match for your typing needs.
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