Akko Fairy vs. Bsun Taichi

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and Bsun Taichi stand out as two compelling options, both of which are linear switches but cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Akko Fairy is particularly well-suited for office environments, featuring a refined, factory-applied lubrication that results in a smooth, muted typing experience. Its medium weight provides a satisfying resistance, perfect for users who may engage in long hours of typing without experiencing fatigue. The design focuses on creating a polished and subtle interaction, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfort and a quieter workspace. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch offers a more dynamic experience, characterized by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs. While it may sacrifice some of the muted characteristics of the Fairy, it compensates with an unparalleled smoothness and stability that can enhance typing enjoyment for those who crave auditory feedback and a responsive feel. Both switches cater to specific needs and preferences, whether you lean towards a more professional and subdued atmosphere or prefer an engaging auditory experience while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Fairy Linear

Bsun Taichi Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Bsun Taichi switches, a clear distinction emerges in their top housings, while their bottom housings share a commonality. The Fairy utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material known for its softer properties that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users seeking a particular typing experience; the nylon absorbs sound, resulting in a rounder acoustic effect. In contrast, the Taichi features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound profile but also supports RGB lighting applications due to its translucency, appealing to those looking for a vibrant aesthetic along with auditory feedback.

In terms of bottom housings, both switches share an alignment on the choice of nylon. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Fairy and the Taichi means that regardless of the differences in the top materials, the sound profile when bottoming out will exhibit similar characteristics—namely, the deeper and rounder tones associated with nylon. This commonality ensures that users can still experience a satisfying and cohesive sound when pressing down on either switch. With the bottom housing being more impactful on the feel and sound at the bottom-out moment, users will appreciate the tactile experience that nylon provides in both instances.

In summary, the juxtaposition between the Akko Fairy and the Bsun Taichi showcases how contrasting materials in top housings can influence sound profiles, while shared bottom materials can harmonize the overall acoustic experience. The nylon top housing of the Fairy creates a unique sound environment, while the polycarbonate top of the Taichi ensures a more vibrant response, especially in combination with RGB lighting. However, the uniformity in using nylon for the bottom housing creates a grounding effect across both switches, allowing for a familiar auditory experience when bottoming out. Ultimately, users can choose a switch based on their desired sound and feel, knowing that the nylon bottom will consistently contribute to a pleasant typing experience.

Weight

The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch present some interesting differences in their actuation forces. The Fairy switch features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to press and potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is unknown, which leaves a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of overall keystroke feel. While the Fairy switch offers a firmer push with its higher actuation force, translating to a more substantial typing experience, the Taichi's lighter actuation can appeal to those who favor agility over resistance. Therefore, if the unknown bottom out force of the Taichi were comparable to the Fairy's, users might experience a similar bottoming out sensation; however, without this data, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. Overall, the Akko Fairy is the heavier switch, while the Bsun Taichi is the lighter option.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their measurements. The Akko Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Taichi features a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Fairy is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel, which tends to benefit gamers who favor quicker reaction times. On the other hand, the Taichi's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, providing a more substantial tactile experience. Therefore, while both switches serve distinct preferences in terms of travel distance, choosing the Akko Fairy can lead to faster responses, whereas the Bsun Taichi caters to a preference for a more substantial keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy switches stand out with their muted and neutral character. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound profile, making them particularly suited for office environments where minimizing distractions is essential. Their design emphasizes a balanced auditory experience that’s considerate of both casual and professional use. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switches are celebrated for their enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound resulting from their long-pole stems and extended springs. While specifics regarding the overall sound profile of the Taichi are lacking, one could anticipate a more pronounced and lively auditory response, which may not be as conducive to quiet settings.

In terms of feel, the Fairy switches are characterized by their polished, mild, and subtle nature, allowing for a smooth and gentle typing experience. The factory-applied lubrication ensures reduced friction, which results in a highly refined action that many users find appealing, especially during prolonged typing sessions. This combination of characteristics creates a comfortable experience that balances both ease of use and tactile satisfaction. The specifics of the Taichi's feel are unknown, but the unique design elements suggest that it may provide a different level of feedback and resistance that could cater to enthusiasts looking for a more dynamic typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Akko Fairy switches excel in providing a refined and quiet typing experience, ideal for shared workspaces, the Bsun Taichi switches offer a potentially more vibrant auditory experience. The Fairy’s smooth and polished feel contrasts with the unknown characteristics of the Taichi, leaving room for exploration among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. If a user prioritizes a serene typing environment, the Fairy might be the preferable choice, while those seeking sharper auditory stimulation may lean towards the Taichi, leading to distinctly different experiences based on these subjective qualities.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, your decision should hinge on your specific typing environment and preferences. If you find yourself in an office setting or require a switch that accommodates long hours of typing, the Akko Fairy would be the better option for you. Its medium actuation force and factory-applied lubrication provide a polished, subtle feel that minimizes fatigue while delivering a muted sound profile perfect for shared spaces. However, if you are after a more pronounced acoustic experience and the thrill of smooth key travel, the Taichi switches might be more appealing—though it's important to note that details on their specifications are less clear. If sound is a key factor for you, the enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound of the Taichi can add a unique character to your typing experience, albeit at the potential cost of peace in a quieter environment. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only your personal preferences in feel and sound but also the environments where you'll be using your keyboard most frequently.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Fairy Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more