Akko Fairy vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Akko Fairy and Dareu Snow linear switches. The Akko Fairy switch is praised for its factory-applied lubrication, providing a smooth typing experience ideal for office settings. Its medium weight strike a balance between resistance and comfort, making it perfect for long hours of use without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch boasts an innovative use of POK material for a unique sound signature and smooth typing experience. While the Fairy switch is categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Snow switch is described as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy. These general pointers can help you decide which switch may be best suited for your 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Dareu Snow switches both have their unique characteristics and benefits. The Fairy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing offers incredibly smooth and durable switches, with wear resistance that surpasses Nylon and POM materials. While the Fairy's nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile as the top, the Snow's nylon bottom housing provides comparable sound qualities as well.
Despite the differences in their respective top housings, the Fairy and Snow switches both offer a deep and full sound profile due to the use of nylon material. However, where the Fairy focuses on sound absorption and rounder sound characteristics, the Snow emphasizes smoothness and durability. This means that users of both switches can experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound, with the Snow offering added smoothness and durability benefits. Additionally, the Snow's POK material offers enhanced wear and shock resistance, providing a longer-lasting switch compared to the Fairy's nylon material.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes apparent that the differences between nylon and POK can significantly influence the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing of a switch plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the Fairy's use of nylon for both top and bottom housing may result in a more consistent typing experience, while the Snow's combination of POK and nylon materials allows for a smoother and more durable switch overall. Ultimately, users can choose between the Fairy and Snow switches based on their preference for sound profile, smoothness, and durability.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Dareu Snow linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them identical in terms of weight. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke and fully press the key down. The medium weight of both switches is a good balance for those who prefer a mix of lightness for extended typing sessions and a bit of resistance for a substantial typing feel. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Fairy or Snow switch will depend more on other factors such as sound, smoothness, and overall typing experience rather than the actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Although both the Akko Fairy and Dareu Snow linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm, they differ in their overall feel and performance. With identical travel distances, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of keypress depth and feedback. However, the Akko Fairy linear switch may feel smoother and more responsive compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch due to subtle design differences. Ultimately, while both switches offer the same travel distance, the Akko Fairy may provide a slightly better typing experience for those who prioritize smoothness and responsiveness in their keystrokes.
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 Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a muted and neutral typing experience, making it a great choice for office environments where quieter operation is preferred. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that provides a deep and rich typing experience. If you prefer a softer and quieter sound, the Fairy switch would be the better option, while the Snow switch caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced and bass-heavy sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switch is polished, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and reduced friction, perfect for extended use without causing fatigue. Conversely, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy feedback sensation, giving keys a spring-like and lively feel, making typing more engaging and responsive. Depending on your preference for a more subtle and refined feel or a bouncy and responsive feedback, you can choose between the Fairy and Snow switches accordingly.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a quieter and more comfortable typing experience suitable for professional settings, thanks to its medium weight and factory-applied lubrication. The Dareu Snow linear switch, on the other hand, provides a deeper and more engaging sound with a bouncy and responsive feel, adding a different level of tactile feedback to your typing. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter, refined typing experience or a more engaging and tactile feedback while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, the decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings, offering a smooth typing experience with a medium weight that balances resistance and comfort, then the Akko Fairy switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an innovative design using POK material for a deeper sound signature, and enjoy a more bouncy feel when typing, then the Dareu Snow switch would be the better option. Both switches have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, but the Fairy switch is described as muted and polished, while the Snow switch is thocky and bouncy. Consider these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and environment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience or a deeper sound profile with a lively feel.
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