Akko Fairy vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy is known for its smooth typing experience, perfect for office settings due to its refined lubrication and comfortable medium weight that strikes a balance between satisfying presses and extended use. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches boast a captivating sound profile akin to mahjong tiles colliding, offering a rich, bassy feel that makes typing an indulgent experience. With a unique Ly stem and factory lube method, these switches provide a distinct gliding feel and a highly responsive typing experience. 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
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches both aim to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile for typing. While the Fairy uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, the Sunset Yellow utilizes POM for both components. Nylon is known for its softer plastic properties which absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings in the Sunset Yellow switches create a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon.
Despite the difference in housing materials between the Akko Fairy and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches, they both offer a similar goal of providing a deeper and fuller sound profile for typing. The use of nylon for the top and bottom housing in the Fairy as opposed to POM housings in the Sunset Yellow may result in slightly different sound experiences when typing. However, both materials excel in absorbing sound and creating a unique sound profile that sets them apart from traditional switch housings.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This split between the two housing materials allows for a more dynamic and well-rounded sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users of both switches. Ultimately, whether nylon or POM, the housing materials of these switches contribute to a satisfying and unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, one can see that the Fairy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sunset Yellow's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy requires 60 grams while the Sunset Yellow only needs 51 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force, but the Sunset Yellow leans towards the lighter side with its bottom out force being considered medium-light. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Akko Fairy switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, with the Fairy being slightly longer than the Sunset Yellow. A difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant to most users, but some may prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. However, others may find a shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so choosing between them may come down to personal preference and specific use cases.
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 Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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 offers a muted and neutral sound profile, perfect for a quieter office environment where minimizing noise is a priority. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch provides a bassy and thocky sound, reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, offering a more indulgent typing experience with rich tones. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Fairy focusing on a softer and quieter experience, while the Sunset Yellow delivers a deeper and more satisfying auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. This aligns well with the switch's medium weight, offering comfort for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, allowing for a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. The unique Ly stem and factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel, enhancing the typing experience with effortless key presses.
Overall, the Akko Fairy linear switch excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience, ideal for office settings and daily professional tasks. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offers a more indulgent and rich sound profile, accompanied by a smooth and buttery typing feel that enhances the overall tactile feedback during typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to a different typing experience, ensuring that users can find the right match for their specific needs. While the subjective qualities of the two switches differ, users can expect reliable and satisfying results from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you are looking for a switch that is well-suited for office settings with a medium bottom out force and a muted sound profile, the Fairy switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a bassy and thocky sound profile, and a creamy and frictionless feel that offers a indulgent typing experience, then the Sunset Yellow switch could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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