Akko Fairy vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it's evident that both offer unique benefits for different typing experiences. The Fairy switch from Akko stands out for its smooth and refined typing experience, making it an excellent choice for professional settings with its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is praised for its approachable tactility and deep sound profile, making it a great option for those seeking a tactile switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. While the Fairy switch offers a muted and mild typing experience, the Aflion Shadow switch provides a bouncy feel with its tactile feedback. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the Fairy uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both. The Fairy's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer composition, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound experience. Both housings have their unique characteristics that contribute to the overall auditory experience of typing on the switches.
The difference in housing materials also affects the aesthetic appeal of the switches. While nylon is a classic switch housing material and is opaque, polycarbonate is clear and transparent. Therefore, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual experience of using the switches. In contrast, the Fairy's nylon housing provides a more traditional look without the translucency of polycarbonate. Nonetheless, both housing materials have their own distinct visual appeal that caters to different preferences in terms of aesthetics when it comes to mechanical switches.
With the qualities of the housing materials split between the top and bottom of the switches, users will feel and hear different attributes depending on how they interact with the keys. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the two housings allows for a dynamic typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both nylon and polycarbonate in the Akko Fairy and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, respectively.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, one can see that the Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams. Similarly, the Fairy also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Shadow has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out force, with the Shadow being considered slightly lighter in comparison to the Fairy. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Shadow may be the better choice. However, for those who seek a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Fairy may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing needs.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Shadow (Ink) switch's longer travel distance could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varied travel distances, providing options for users with different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, quicker key press or a longer, more deliberate one.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 offers a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing noise that is ideal for office settings. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch does not have a specific sound description provided, but it is noted to have a deep and thocky sound profile, which suggests a more pronounced and satisfying typing sound. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, the sound produced by each switch can vary.
Moving on to the feel, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel that reduces friction and provides comfortable key travel. The subtle resistance of the Fairy switch ensures a gentle typing feel suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively keys that rebound when pressed. This tactile feedback adds an extra layer of responsiveness to each key press, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch excels in providing a comfortable and quiet typing experience, making it perfect for office environments, while the Shadow (Ink) switch stands out with its tactile feedback and deep sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more engaging typing experience. Depending on your priorities in sound, feel, and typing style, both switches can offer satisfying results, but they cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are in an office setting and value a smooth and comfortable typing experience with minimal noise, the Fairy switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a more approachable level of tactility and a deep sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing preferences and the specific demands of your daily use.
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