Akko Fairy vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it's evident that both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy stands out for its smooth and refined typing experience, making it a perfect choice for office settings where a quiet environment and comfort during extended use are essential. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro provides a medium level of tactility with a light touch, appealing to those who enjoy a balanced typing sensation without excessive noise. Both switches have their distinct qualities that may suit various typing preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Both switches share the common characteristic of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity showcases the classic use of nylon in switch housings and highlights the benefits it brings in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
However, where the differences lie is in the top housing material used in each switch. The Akko Fairy features a nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound output of a switch.
Overall, while the bottom housing of both the Akko Fairy and Dareu Violet Gold Pro share the same nylon material, the differences in their top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles. The Fairy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper and clearer sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound quality is crucial for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience and achieve their desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Fairy has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Fairy is 60 grams, while that of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. This makes the Fairy a slightly heavier option in terms of overall force required for both actuation and bottoming out. The Fairy provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a lighter actuation force for those who want to type for longer periods without fatigue. Both switches have their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the Fairy being on the heavier side and the Violet Gold Pro offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Fairy switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro switch may provide a more substantial key press experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation points, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Akko Fairy switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a longer key press with more depth, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch would be the better option.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 it comes to sound, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer a neutral profile. This means they provide a moderate sound level that is suitable for various settings, whether it be at home or in an office environment. The Fairy switch, however, leans towards a more muted sound, which can be beneficial for those looking to minimize keyboard noise. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch maintains a balanced sound signature that won't be distracting in shared spaces. Ultimately, both switches offer a quiet typing experience that won't disrupt those around you.
Moving on to feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch boasts a polished and refined typing experience due to its factory-lubricated components. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The switch also offers a mild and subtle resistance, providing a gentle typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile experience with two distinct stages. While it may not provide the same level of smoothness as the Fairy switch, the Violet Gold Pro offers a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who prefer a bit more feedback with each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch excels in providing a quiet and polished typing experience, perfect for office settings and those who prioritize a smooth keypress. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Fairy or the Violet Gold Pro, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the specific needs of your typing environment and preferences. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with medium resistance, making the Fairy switches a great choice for a quiet office setting while offering comfort for prolonged use. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactile sensation with a light touch, the Violet Gold Pro switches may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choosing one will depend on your personal preference for feel and sound.
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