Akko Fairy vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Akko Fairy and the KTT Rose, both of which are linear switches. The fairy switches from Akko are perfect for office settings, as they come pre-lubricated for a smooth typing experience and offer a medium weight that strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, making them ideal for long hours of work without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches are not only visually stunning but also provide a unique typing experience with progressive springs that offer a substantial yet not heavy feel, creating a sound akin to bassy raindrops when typing. While the Fairy switches are categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, subtle, the Rose switches are defined as low-pitched, neutral, mild, polished. Both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different preferences, however, let's delve 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the KTT Rose both offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Fairy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Rose's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic makeup, which enhances clarity and resonance. Despite these differences, both materials have their strengths, with nylon offering a more muted sound and polycarbonate delivering a clearer, more resonant tone.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Fairy and the Rose utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material enhances sound profiles by providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of sound feedback and profile due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing. This consistent choice of material ensures that users will experience a similar level of sound depth and richness when typing on either the Fairy or the Rose switches.
When different housing materials are used for the top and bottom of a switch, the qualities of each material are divided between the two parts, impacting the sound profile differently. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon used in the Fairy and Rose, has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, plays a key role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding the distinct contributions of each housing material, users can choose a switch that best aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both have medium actuation forces, with the Fairy requiring 50 grams and the Rose having an unknown force. However, the bottom out force of the Fairy is lighter at 60 grams compared to the Rose's medium-heavy 63.5 grams. This means that the Fairy switch may be more preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, the Rose switch may be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their differing forces, so it ultimately depends on personal preference whether one is preferred over the other.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Rose linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy switch would offer a more responsive typing experience, ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Rose switch provides a slightly deeper feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Fairy being on the shallower end and the Rose being closer to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for key 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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches, making it suitable for office settings where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko Fairy and KTT Rose linear switches are described as providing a polished and mild typing experience. The polished finish of the switches results in smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing feel. Additionally, the switches offer a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use and suitable for shared spaces due to their subtle sound signature. Overall, both switches fall within the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel, providing a pleasant typing experience for users.
In conclusion, while the Akko Fairy and KTT Rose linear switches have some differences in sound profiles, they share similar qualities in terms of feel. Both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for various typing tasks. Whether you choose the Fairy for its muted sound or the Rose for its low-pitched tone, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and design aesthetics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a reliable and comfortable switch for office use, the Akko Fairy linear switch would be an excellent choice. With its medium bottom out force and muted sound profile, it offers a smooth typing experience that is conducive to a quieter workspace. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch with a more substantial yet not heavy typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch would be a great option. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and low-pitched sound profile, it provides a unique typing sensation that is both satisfying and pleasant to the ears. Ultimately, your choice between the Akko Fairy and KTT Rose linear switches will depend on your preferences for typing feel and sound, so consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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