Akko Fairy vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko Fairy and Jerrzi Seashell are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy is renowned for its smooth typing experience, ideal for office settings due to its quiet operation and comfortable feel during extended use. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell stands out with its visually appealing purple hue and light, clacky feel that provides an enjoyable typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Fairy offers a balanced medium weight for a satisfying press without causing fatigue, the Seashell provides an easy-to-press, high-pitched sensation that may appeal to those who prefer a more feather-light touch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and Jerrzi Seashell both feature a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials have their own unique sound qualities, the nylon top housing of the Fairy may provide a more rounded and duller sound compared to the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Seashell.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Fairy and Seashell utilize nylon material. This means that the typing experience on these switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both keyboards ensures consistency in sound quality and typing experience, despite the differences in the top housing material between the two models.
It is essential to note that the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of a switch. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing impacts the sound produced when a key is released. The different housing materials used in the Akko Fairy and Jerrzi Seashell provide unique tactile and auditory experiences for users, with the nylon top housing of the Fairy offering a deeper and duller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Seashell delivers a sharper and clearer sound for a more distinctive typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both have their own unique actuation and bottom out forces. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Seashell has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. When comparing the two, the Fairy requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke, while the Seashell offers a lighter initial push. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Seashell may be the better option, whereas those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Fairy. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, the Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Seashell has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference in distance is minimal, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko Fairy linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Akko Fairy, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may prefer the Jerrzi Seashell. Overall, both switches offer similar results due to their close proximity in travel distance.
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 Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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 described as producing a muted and neutral sound, making it a great choice for a quieter workspace without sacrificing typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, creating a sharp and crisp typing experience that may be more appealing to users who enjoy a distinct auditory feedback. Depending on your preference for sound profile, you can choose between the more subdued sound of the Fairy or the vibrant sound of the Seashell.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch offers a polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish with gentle resistance. This results in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a comfortable typing feel suitable for extended use. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, with light actuation force requiring minimal effort for key presses. This gentle resistance reduces finger fatigue and enhances the typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel. Depending on your preference for typing resistance, you can choose between the refined feel of the Fairy or the effortless feel of the Seashell.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Fairy excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience, ideal for professional settings, while the Seashell delivers a more vibrant and effortless typing feel suitable for enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches are great options for users seeking a high-quality linear switch for their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you value a smooth typing experience with medium resistance and a quieter workspace, the Akko Fairy switch would be the ideal choice for you, especially in an office setting. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a visually appealing switch with a light and clacky feel that is enjoyable for long typing sessions, the Jerrzi Seashell switch may be more suited to your liking, making it a joy for keyboard enthusiasts. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so it is important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on what you prioritize in your typing experience.