Akko Fairy vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Akko Fairy and the SP-Star Duck. The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, is well-suited for office settings with its factory-applied lubrication providing a smooth typing experience. The medium weight of the Fairy switch strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, making it ideal for extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch, offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean sound profile. While the Fairy switch is best known for its quiet and comfortable typing experience, the Duck switch stands out for its gentle tactility and crispy sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy's housing materials consist of nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to polycarbonate's stiffer properties. While both materials offer their own unique sound characteristics, the use of nylon in the Fairy results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Duck's more clear and resonant sound attributed to polycarbonate.
Although the housing materials for the Akko Fairy and SP-Star Duck differ in top and bottom compositions, each switch still offers distinct sound profiles based on the properties of their respective materials. The Fairy's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper sound upon key release, while its nylon bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound upon key release, while its polycarbonate bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and typing experience. Despite the differences, both switches offer a balance of sound characteristics based on their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Akko Fairy and SP-Star Duck housing materials ultimately depends on personal preference and desired sound profile. Both nylon and polycarbonate bring unique qualities to the switches, with nylon offering a softer and rounder sound in the Fairy, while polycarbonate provides a clearer and resonant sound in the Duck. Whether typing on the Fairy's nylon housing for a deeper sound or the Duck's polycarbonate housing for a sharper sound, users can expect distinct and satisfying sound profiles from either switch based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 58 grams, also falling into the medium category. However, the Akko Fairy is lighter to actuate compared to the SP-Star Duck, providing a smoother typing experience for those who prefer lighter switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial keystroke feel. In terms of weight, both switches provide a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch. The Fairy's shorter travel distance makes it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Duck's longer travel distance may be more appealing to users who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch are described as having a neutral profile. This means they offer a moderate sound level that is suitable for various settings, whether it be in an office environment or at home. The muted quality of the Fairy switch allows for a softer and quieter typing experience, while the clean and crispy sound of the Duck switch adds a subtle tactile element to the typing process. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific environment in which they will be used.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished and mild typing experience. The Fairy switch provides a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and comfortable key travel. Its subtle resistance ensures a light and comfortable typing feel, making it suitable for extended use. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke that is effortless and uniform. Both switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, offering a pleasant typing experience for most users.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both excel in providing a comfortable typing experience with their refined and polished qualities. The Fairy switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter workspace and extended use, while the Duck switch offers a subtle tactile element that enhances the typing process. Whether you prefer a muted sound profile or a gentle tactility, both switches deliver on quality and comfort, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for beginners and advanced users alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you value a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a balanced medium weight that is ideal for office settings, the Akko Fairy switch would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer qualities such as refined lubrication and moderate actuation forces, making them versatile for various scenarios. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prioritize and what best suits your working environment. Choose wisely based on these guidelines to enhance your overall typing experience.
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