Akko Fairy vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and KTT Purple Star both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy switch is ideal for office settings, boasting factory-applied lubrication for a smooth typing experience and a medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out, making it perfect for light typists. While the Fairy switch is polished, muted, and neutral, the Purple Star switch is mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and KTT Purple Star both feature unique housing materials for their switches. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Purple Star opts for POM material. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound profile. On the other hand, POM housing in the Purple Star switches produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to the Fairy.
In terms of sound characteristics, both the Akko Fairy and KTT Purple Star offer a deeper sound profile. However, the Fairy's nylon housing contributes to a fuller sound, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to the POM housing in the Purple Star. The unique sound produced by both switches is a result of the specific properties of their respective housing materials, showcasing how different materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound output.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. In the case of the Fairy and Purple Star switches, the split between nylon and POM materials in the top and bottom housings contributes to a balanced typing experience. While the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a key role in the overall typing feel, showing how each housing material brings unique qualities to the switch design.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter 43 grams of the Purple Star. When it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy once again requires more force at 60 grams, while the Purple Star bottoms out at a lighter 50 grams. This means that the Fairy provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch, while the Purple Star offers a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a comfortable typing experience for most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier touch when typing.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance, making them a popular choice for those who prioritize quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Fairy switch for faster in-game actions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper keypress experience may lean towards the Purple Star switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of keypress feel that is desired.
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 Star comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Fairy. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, but the Fairy may be more conducive to a quiet workspace due to its muted sound.
In terms of feel, both the Akko Fairy and KTT Purple Star linear switches offer a mild and gentle typing experience. The Fairy switch is described as polished and subtle, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing feel. Meanwhile, the Purple Star switch boasts an easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a comfortable typing experience. Both switches strike a balance between gentle resistance and ease of use, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both offer excellent qualities for different preferences. The Fairy switch excels in providing a refined and comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile, making it suitable for professional settings. Conversely, the Purple Star switch offers a buttery smooth typing feel with a low-pitched sound, catering to light typists who prefer an effortless key press. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch would be a reliable choice for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and requirements. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office settings, offers a medium weight for a satisfying press without causing fatigue, and provides a muted and polished typing experience, then the Akko Fairy switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a very light bottom-out force, buttery smooth typing experience, and low-pitched sound signature that is easy to press, then the KTT Purple Star switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
