Akko Fairy vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, is known for its refined lubrication and medium weight, making it an ideal choice for an office setting where a smooth and comfortable typing experience is essential. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4, also a linear switch, stands out for its innovative use of POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a rich typing experience. While the Fairy switch provides a polished and muted typing experience, the Sky V4 switch offers a thocky and bouncy feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Dareu Sky V4 differ in their composition and properties. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which provides a deep and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Sky V4 features a POK top housing and nylon bottom housing. The POK material is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance, contributing to a smooth and clacky typing experience. However, both switches offer a deep and fuller sound profile, with the Fairy's nylon housing creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Sky V4's POK material.
While both the Akko Fairy and Dareu Sky V4 offer a deep and fuller sound profile, the materials used in their housing provide distinct differences in typing experience. The Fairy's nylon top and bottom housing contribute to a softer sound with more absorption of sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a smoother and clackier typing experience, with superior durability and shock resistance. These differences in housing materials ultimately impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing.
In the context of housing materials, the Akko Fairy and Dareu Sky V4 showcase how different materials can influence the typing experience. While the Fairy's nylon housing provides a softer and rounder sound profile, the Sky V4's POK material offers enhanced smoothness and durability. However, both switches aim to deliver a deep and fuller sound profile, demonstrating that despite the variations in housing materials, they ultimately yield similar results in terms of the sound produced. Whether it is the nylon housing of the Fairy or the POK material of the Sky V4, both switches cater to users looking for a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we can see that the Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Sky V4's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams while the Sky V4 only needs 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, with the Fairy being slightly heavier overall than the Sky V4. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Sky V4 may be the better option. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Akko Fairy. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, the Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sky V4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Fairy has the shorter travel distance of the two switches. The Akko Fairy with its 3.3 mm travel distance is more suitable for those who prefer a faster response time and a more responsive feel when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 with its 3.6 mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper feel which some users may find more comfortable for long typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 best suited for office environments due to its muted and neutral sound profile. The smoother and quieter sound produced by these switches is ideal for maintaining a peaceful workspace while ensuring a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound that adds a deep and rich quality to the typing experience. Both switches provide a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings, whether at home or in the office, but the Sky V4 stands out for its more distinct and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is characterized by its polished, mild, and subtle qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. The factory-applied lubrication contributes to reduced friction and enhanced key travel, making it comfortable for extended use. On the contrary, the Dareu Sky V4 switch provides a bouncy feedback sensation, giving keys a spring-like and lively feel with a noticeable rebound upon pressing. While the Fairy switch focuses on a more subtle and approachable typing feel, the Sky V4 emphasizes a dynamic and responsive key press.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a quiet and comfortable typing experience in office settings, thanks to its muted sound and polished feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers typists a more distinct and satisfying sound signature with a bouncy and responsive feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant and customizable mechanical keyboard experience for beginners and advanced users alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should consider the specific needs of your typing environment and preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Fairy switch is the ideal choice for office settings and extended daily use. On the other hand, if you value a deep, rich sound signature and innovative material construction, the Sky V4 switch offers a satisfying typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize comfort and professionalism (Fairy) or unique sound quality and innovation (Sky V4) in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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