Akko Fairy vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and KTT Wine Red both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko Fairy, a linear switch, is ideal for office settings due to its smooth typing experience and medium weight that strikes a perfect balance between resistance and comfort. With factory-applied lubrication, these switches are quiet and conducive to extended use, making them perfect for professional tasks. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile that enhances the typing experience. While the Fairy switch is categorized as polished, muted, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Wine Red switch is described as bassy and low-pitched. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and KTT Wine Red both feature unique housing materials that greatly contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Wine Red uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic. While the Fairy's nylon housing absorbs more sound, the Wine Red's polycarbonate housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting for a visually appealing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko Fairy and KTT Wine Red, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Fairy's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red's polycarbonate housing produces a more crisp and resonant sound, catering to users who enjoy a sharper typing feedback. However, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience by offering a distinct sound profile that can be customized to suit individual preferences.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Akko Fairy and KTT Wine Red, it is important to note how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of these switches offers a balanced approach to achieving a desired sound profile. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the Akko Fairy and KTT Wine Red provide an exceptional typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and KTT Wine Red linear switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Fairy has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red has a lower actuation force of 44 grams and a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. The Fairy provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Wine Red, which might be preferred by those who like a more substantial push feel. However, both switches offer a relatively similar weight range, ensuring that users will get comparable results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Wine Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Wine Red's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference for typing or gaming.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its muted and neutral profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes suitable for office settings. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and rich auditory experience that may be more pleasing to some users. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Fairy switch catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience while the Wine Red switch appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced and resonant sound profile.
Regarding feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, information on the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch is not available. However, based on the description of a "pillowy light type feel," it can be inferred that the Wine Red switch offers a softer and more cushioned typing experience, potentially appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch when typing.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you are seeking a quieter typing experience with a medium weight and refined feel, the Akko Fairy switch may be the ideal choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a more pronounced and rich sound profile along with a softer and cushioned typing feel, the KTT Wine Red switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, so choosing between them will depend on your specific preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that is ideal for office use and offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a balanced weight, the Akko Fairy switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate a light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile for a more satisfying typing experience, then the KTT Wine Red switch is the better choice. Consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard, your typing style, and the sound profile that appeals to you the most when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your needs.