Akko Fairy vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering a mechanical keyboard switch, it may be helpful to compare two popular options: the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. The Fairy switches from Akko are known for their smooth typing experience, thanks to factory-applied lubrication that provides a satisfying press without causing fatigue. Ideal for office settings, these switches offer a quieter workspace and comfortable extended use. On the other hand, the WS Brown switches offer a harmonious blend of responsiveness and comfort, with a medium-light actuation force that ensures fatigue-free typing during long sessions. Enthusiasts appreciate the delightful auditory experience these switches provide. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Fairy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown utilize nylon as the housing material for their switches, resulting in a similar typing experience that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This means that users can expect a satisfying typing experience with both switches, with the nylon housing contributing to the overall acoustics of the switch.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material for their top and bottom housing, the impact of each housing component on the typing experience differs. The bottom housing of the switch has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile and audible feedback when the key is fully pressed. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when the key is released, contributing to a well-rounded typing experience that is consistent and satisfying.
Despite the similarities in housing material, the Akko Fairy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches may offer slight variations in terms of overall typing feel and sound due to the different designs and construction methods employed in each switch. However, the use of nylon as the housing material ensures that both switches maintain a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of switches with nylon housings. Overall, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, thanks to the unique properties of nylon and its contribution to sound absorption and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, the Fairy has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the WS Brown's unknown actuation force. Both switches have a medium-bottom out force, with the Fairy requiring 60 grams and the WS Brown requiring 55 grams. The Fairy switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, giving a more substantial typing experience to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, the Fairy has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the WS Brown's 3.8 mm. The Fairy's shorter travel distance might be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the WS Brown's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in keyboards today. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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 is known for its muted profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for office settings where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, but enthusiasts appreciate its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination, suggesting a pleasant and delightful auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to its factory-applied lubrication. This results in reduced friction and comfortable key travel, making it a popular choice for extended typing sessions. The medium weight of the switch strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, ensuring a fatigue-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, but its medium-light actuation force suggests a responsive yet comfortable typing experience that is suitable for extended use.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch provides a muted sound profile and a polished, comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings, while the WS Brown switch offers a familiarity and innovation blend with a pleasant auditory experience and medium-light actuation force. Depending on whether you prefer a quieter typing experience or a more responsive feel, both switches are excellent options for different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Akko Fairy linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience for office settings, the Fairy switch with its medium bottom out force and muted sound profile would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you value a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, along with a delightful auditory experience, the WS Brown switch with its medium-light bottom out force may be more appealing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what attributes are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what factors you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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