Akko Fairy vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, is ideal for office settings due to its refined lubrication for a smooth typing experience and medium weight that strikes a balance between satisfying key presses and comfort for extended use. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor, a tactile switch, provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile with pronounced tactility for satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. While the Fairy offers a quieter and comfortable typing experience, the Viola Tricolor adds character and sharp sensation to your 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice in material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, when it comes to the top housing of the Fairy and the Viola Tricolor, their differences are pronounced. The Fairy opts for a nylon top housing, which, like its bottom housing, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in top housing materials showcases how the choice of material can significantly impact the sound produced by a switch. By incorporating polycarbonate in the top housing, the Viola Tricolor achieves a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Fairy's nylon top housing.
In essence, the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Haimu Viola Tricolor play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart. The Fairy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding how different housing materials impact the overall sound profile of a switch can help enthusiasts choose the right switch for their preferences.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Fairy is 60 grams, while the Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that the Fairy switch will provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer less resistance and want to type for long periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch will offer a more substantial typing experience due to its slightly heavier bottom out force, which is preferred by some for a more tactile feedback. Both switches fall into the medium force category, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing feel despite the slight difference in force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired level of force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Fairy has a shorter travel distance compared to the Viola Tricolor. The Fairy's 3.3 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter travel distances are preferred in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which may be favored by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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, ideal for a quiet office setting where minimal noise is preferred. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds character to your typing experience without being overly loud. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a softer and more neutral sound or a richer and deeper tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished, mild, and subtle qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is described as accented and invigorating, providing a medium level of tactility without being overpowering, creating a satisfying typing sensation that is reactive and snappy. Depending on whether you prefer a more gentle and refined feel or a more pronounced tactile feedback, your choice between the two switches may vary.
Considering the overall information provided, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Fairy switch is best suited for those looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience, while the Viola Tricolor switch is ideal for users who enjoy a richer and more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and the specific typing environment in which they will be used.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience for office settings, the Fairy switch with its medium weight and factory-lubricated design would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a distinctive sound profile that adds character to your typing, the Viola Tricolor switch with its thuddy sound and balanced tactility would be a preferred option. Ultimately, selecting between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
