Akko Fairy vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Fairy and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches each offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Akko Fairy is celebrated for its refined, factory-applied lubrication, which provides a remarkably smooth typing experience ideal for office environments. Its medium weight strikes a balance that makes it comfortable for extended use while maintaining a subdued presence ideal for quiet workspaces. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte employs the latest mold technology to deliver a super smooth keystroke, with a balanced sound profile that isn't too quiet or overly resonant, making it versatile for both work and play. While both switches are linear and designed for a seamless typing experience, their distinct features may appeal to different users based on their specific needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Standard
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and the Huano Strawberry Latte present distinctive characteristics in their top housings, with the Fairy utilizing a nylon material and the Strawberry Latte employing POK (polyketone). The nylon top housing of the Fairy is noted for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic nature that absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This results in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing, appealing to users who favor a muted acoustic environment while enhancing the overall tactile feedback of the switches. In contrast, the POK top housing of the Strawberry Latte offers a different sensation and sound signature. Its slightly higher coefficient of friction contributes to a smoother typing experience, but it does not absorb sound as absorbently as nylon. Therefore, while the Fairy is designed for enriched sound absorption, the Strawberry Latte aims for durability and smooth action.
The bottom housings of both switches employ nylon, which serves to unify their acoustic properties. With nylon being known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, both switches will exhibit a similar auditory experience at the fundamental level when pressed. This common material in the bottom housing means that, regardless of the variance in top housings, users can expect that both switches will deliver that rich, rounded bass-like sound when bottomed out. The delightful synergy between the two materials in both switches means that while the top housing might offer contrasting sound properties, the bottom housing ensures that the deeper tonal qualities are preserved across both models.
Analyzing the comparison highlights that while the Akko Fairy prioritizes a softer sound profile with its nylon top housing, the Huano Strawberry Latte emphasizes a blend of smoothness and durability through its unique POK material. Combined with both models featuring nylon as their bottom housing, users receive both switches with a familiar sound characteristic upon bottoming out, regardless of the contrasting top elements. Ultimately, the differences highlight a key distinction in user experience: the Fairy caters to those who appreciate a muted, deeper sound, while the Strawberry Latte appeals to users seeking robustness and a smooth operational feel. This balance between acoustic properties and typing experience ensures that both switches fulfill their intended functions while catering to different preferences in keyboard feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Akko Fairy switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch suitable for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, ideal for users seeking a more effortless keystroke, especially during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Consequently, the Akko Fairy is the heavier option, catering to individuals who appreciate a more substantial push feel, while the Strawberry Latte is the lighter switch, appealing to those who enjoy a gentler touch. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch that can enhance speed and reduce fatigue, the Strawberry Latte is the better choice; however, those who favor a medium resistance will likely enjoy the Fairy's characteristics more.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Strawberry Latte's travel distance is 3.6 mm, which is longer. This means that users who favor a more responsive keypress will likely prefer the Fairy switch due to its reduced travel distance, allowing for quicker actuation. Conversely, those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel when typing may gravitate toward the Strawberry Latte, as its longer travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile experience. As shorter travel distances are increasingly popular among gamers seeking fast response times, the choice between these two switches can ultimately depend on personal preference for either rapidity or depth in key actuation.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, the Fairy is characterized as a muted option, producing a softer and quieter sound when compared to more pronounced mechanical switches. This muted sound is complemented by a neutral tone that provides a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for both beginners and experienced typists alike. This makes the Fairy a great choice for an office environment where noise levels need to be kept in check. On the other hand, while the sound profile of the Strawberry Latte is balanced and not overly resonant, specific details about its sound description were not available. This suggests that while it may not be as quiet as the Fairy, it offers a similarly non-intrusive auditory experience that can work well in various settings. Therefore, if you prioritize a quieter workspace, the Fairy might be the more suitable option, while the Strawberry Latte still provides an adequate sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy switches provide a polished typing experience, thanks to their factory-applied lubrication that reduces friction for smooth key travel. They are described as mild and subtle, offering a gentle resistance that appeals to a wide range of users. This combination creates a comfortable typing experience that can easily be enjoyed over extended periods without fatigue. The overall refined feel makes the Fairy particularly well suited for long hours of typing in both home and office settings. Unfortunately, the subjective qualities regarding the feel of the Strawberry Latte switches were not specified, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, if the construction of the Strawberry Latte reflects the modern manufacturing processes employed by Huano, one might expect a similarly smooth experience.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch stands out for its muted sound profile and polished, mild feel, making it particularly suitable for a quieter office setting and extended typing sessions. The Strawberry Latte, while not as explicitly detailed in its sound and feel qualities, presents a balanced sound profile and is likely to provide a smooth experience as well given the quality of its production. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that provides an effective mix of sound and tactile response for daily use, both switches will deliver satisfying results, albeit with a particular emphasis on the quieter operation of the Fairy.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you find yourself in an office environment or frequently typing for extended periods, the Akko Fairy switches would be an excellent choice. Their medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying level of resistance without causing fatigue, making them perfect for long work sessions. Additionally, their muted and polished sound profile ensures a quieter experience, allowing you to work without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother actuation, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches may suit you better. With a bottom-out force of only 45 grams, these switches are ideal for fast-paced typists who appreciate the ease of keystrokes and a balanced sound profile that’s not overly resonant. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the more refined feel of the Fairy or the super smooth actuation of the Strawberry Latte, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different typing experiences, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your style.
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