Akko Fairy vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer distinct advantages based on particular preferences. The Akko Fairy excels in office settings for its smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to factory-applied lubrication that ensures a comfortable press without causing fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver is ideal for those who prioritize speed and precision, with a light-medium resistance level and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. While the Fairy is categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, and the Speed Silver as neutral, mild, and polished, both switches cater to specific typing needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
1.08 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the TTC Speed Silver, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Fairy utilizes nylon for its top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. The aesthetic difference is also notable, with the translucent polycarbonate allowing for RGB lighting effects compared to the opaque nylon of the Fairy.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both the Fairy and the Speed Silver is made of nylon. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as the softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. While this may lead to a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings, it ensures consistency in typing feel and sound between the two switches. The impact of the bottom nylon housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of the switches influences the typing experience and sound profile of the Akko Fairy and TTC Speed Silver. The contrasting qualities of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housings create distinct sound profiles, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound, while polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper sound. However, the similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing result in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that both have relatively similar actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both fall within the medium range, with the Fairy being slightly heavier than the Speed Silver. The lighter actuation force of the Speed Silver may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods, while the slightly heavier Fairy switch may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we can see that the Fairy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Fairy may provide a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, while the Speed Silver may offer a bit more depth when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance in mechanical keyboards.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for office settings. The TTC Speed Silver linear switch, on the other hand, offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of environments and users. When it comes to feel, the Fairy switch provides a polished and subtle typing experience with reduced friction and gentle resistance, making it comfortable for extended use. Similarly, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that is approachable to most users. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Fairy switch excelling in office settings and the Speed Silver switch catering to those who value speed and precision in their typing. Whether you choose the Akko Fairy or TTC Speed Silver switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a smooth and comfortable typing experience, especially for long hours of work, the Akko Fairy switch with its medium bottom-out force and polished feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if speed and precision are crucial to you, and you prefer a lighter touch with a pristine sound profile, the TTC Speed Silver switch with its medium-light bottom-out force and mild feel could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize typing comfort, speed, and noise levels in your daily usage.
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