Akko Fairy vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko Fairy and the KTT Strawberry mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key differences to consider. The Fairy switch from Akko is perfect for office environments due to its refined lubrication and medium weight, making it ideal for a smooth and comfortable typing experience during daily professional tasks. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch stands out for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, wrapped in an attractive pink and clear housing. While the Fairy switch offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience, the Strawberry switch provides a buttery and frictionless feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 housing materials of the Akko Fairy and KTT Strawberry differ in terms of the top and bottom housing materials used. The Akko Fairy features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbing nature of nylon. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with a more clear and resonant sound. The Fairy's nylon housing brings a duller and rounder sound, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing offers a more high-pitched and vibrant sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Akko Fairy and KTT Strawberry provide unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The nylon housing of the Fairy offers a softer and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Strawberry delivers a sharper and clearer sound. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Strawberry's housing also allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. While the two switches have contrasting sound profiles, they both showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
In terms of tactile feedback, the bottom housing material of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. The split between the nylon and polycarbonate materials in the Akko Fairy and KTT Strawberry allows for a combination of qualities from both materials to be felt during typing. Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing in switches ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and typing experience that the user is seeking.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch with an actuation force of 43 grams, making the Strawberry switch the lighter option in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Strawberry switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making the Strawberry switch the heavier option for bottoming out. Despite these differences, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions, the KTT Strawberry linear switch may be the better choice. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Akko Fairy linear switch would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see that the Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Strawberry has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Fairy the shorter option and the Strawberry the longer option. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Strawberry's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for typing enthusiasts. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for responsiveness or depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will lead to varied typing experiences, with the Fairy offering a shorter travel distance and the Strawberry providing a longer 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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
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 described as muted and neutral, offering a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office settings. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches present unique auditory qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Fairy being more understated and the Strawberry offering a distinct low-pitched tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its polished, mild, and subtle typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This results in a comfortable and refined typing feel ideal for extended use. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth and effortless key pressing sensation. The Strawberry switch prioritizes a fluid and effortless typing feel that minimizes resistance and maximizes comfort.
Considering all the available information, it can be concluded that the Akko Fairy linear switch focuses on creating a balanced and comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile, perfect for professional environments. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry linear switch stands out for its smooth and frictionless typing feel, paired with a low-pitched sound for a more distinct auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Fairy leaning towards a quieter and refined typing experience, while the Strawberry prioritizes smoothness and comfort. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction in terms of either switch's overall performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a comfortable and quiet typing experience, especially for prolonged use in an office environment, the Fairy switch may be the better choice with its medium weight and polished, muted characteristics. On the other hand, if you value smooth actuation, low-pitched sound, and a frictionless, silky feel, the Strawberry switch could be the ideal fit for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to weigh these factors before making your decision.
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