Akko Fairy vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and the Bsun Ragdoll offer distinct experiences that cater to varying preferences and environments. The Akko Fairy switch is particularly suited for office settings, highlighting refined, factory-applied lubrication that delivers a smooth typing experience. Its medium weight provides an ideal resistance, ensuring a satisfying press while minimizing fatigue, which is essential for prolonged use in professional tasks. This switch is characterized by its polished, muted, and subtle qualities, creating a quieter workspace that many office workers crave. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll switch, known for its Y3 stem, promises exceptionally smooth travel combined with a nylon-fiberglass housing that produces a satisfying clacky sound; while not expressly quiet, this auditory feedback can be enjoyable for those who appreciate a more dynamic typing experience. While both switches fall under the linear category, their unique characteristics cater to different user needs and environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and Bsun Ragdoll both feature housings made entirely from nylon, which is a classic choice in the world of mechanical switches. This shared material choice contributes to a similar auditory experience when typing, as both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The intrinsic properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, allow for a unique resonance that absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing materials ensures that users will enjoy comparable acoustic outcomes, regardless of which switch they choose.
While the top and bottom housings for both the Fairy and Ragdoll are made from nylon, their effects on the typing experience can still vary slightly due to the inherent design characteristics of each switch. Given that the top housing predominantly influences the sound upon key release, and the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, even with identical materials, some differences may arise based on the specific engineering and internal mechanisms of the switches. However, the use of nylon in both parts lends consistency, as both the Fairy and Ragdoll will still feel and sound robust due to the acoustic qualities inherent to the material.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Bsun Ragdoll bring forth a harmonized typing experience defined by their nylon construction. Users can expect similar sound profiles and tactile sensations because both switches utilize the same material properties. The uniformity in their housing leads to a cohesive experience, despite any potential variations in design specifics that might exist. This shared nylon heritage ensures that enthusiasts of both switches will enjoy a satisfying click with an invitingly muted soundscape that typifies the aesthetic of these mechanical offerings.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch present interesting comparisons in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ragdoll switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This difference means that the Ragdoll requires less force to actuate, making it a more suitable option for those who favor longer typing sessions or lighter key presses. In contrast, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Fairy switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer feel. Ultimately, while both switches are categorized as medium and medium-light, respectively, the Ragdoll’s lighter force may be preferable for casual or extended use, whereas the Fairy may appeal more to users who enjoy a stronger key feel.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference highlights the varying preferences among users; those who favor the Fairy's 3.3 mm travel may appreciate the responsiveness it offers, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking quick key presses. Conversely, the Ragdoll's longer travel distance provides a more tactile and robust feel, which could be more appealing to users who prefer a deeper, more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual preference, with the Fairy being the shorter option and the Ragdoll providing a more traditional length.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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 considering the sound profiles of the Akko Fairy and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches, the differences are notable. The Fairy switches are notably muted and neutral, designed specifically to minimize mechanical noise and create a quieter typing environment. This is particularly beneficial for office settings or shared workspaces, where minimizing sound is essential. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch is characterized by a clacky sound due to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, though specific descriptions about its sound profile were not provided. Therefore, while the Fairy promotes a serene typing experience, the Ragdoll might introduce more auditory presence, which could be perceived as either satisfying or disruptive depending on the environment.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switches excel with their polished, mild, and subtle characteristics. The factory-applied lubrication contributes to a notably smooth typing experience with reduced friction, making each keypress comfortable for prolonged use. This gentle resistance allows typists to feel a satisfying yet approachable interaction with the keyboard. On the other hand, the Ragdoll's feel qualities go unmentioned, leaving an unknown variable in terms of how they might compare. Consequently, while the Fairy provides a consistent and enjoyable tactile experience, the Ragdoll's feel may vary based on unreported factors and user preferences.
In summary, the Akko Fairy linear switch stands out for its muted sound profile and smooth, gentle feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet and comfortable typing experience, particularly in professional environments. The Bsun Ragdoll switch, while possessing unique attributes related to sound that could appeal to different users, lacks detailed information about its tactile qualities. Thus, while both switches cater to linear preferences, the Fairy offers a distinct advantage in sound and feel for those seeking a serene typing atmosphere. If you're looking for a more pronounced acoustic feedback or different tactile sensations, exploring the Ragdoll could yield interesting results, but it ultimately might not deliver the same level of refinement found in the Fairy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, consider your specific environment and preferences. If you work in an office or a shared space where noise and comfort are key factors, the Akko Fairy switches would be an excellent choice. Their medium actuation force of 60 grams, combined with muted sound characteristics and a polished feel, ensures a smooth and quiet typing experience that is ideal for extended use. On the other hand, if you're seeking a lighter touch with a more tactile sound that can add a playful aspect to your typing without excessive noise, then the Bsun Ragdoll switch might be more appealing. With a lower actuation force of 52 grams and a distinct clacky sound profile, the Ragdoll is suitable for casual use and playful gaming sessions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter, more professional feel or a fun, engaging typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
