Akko Fairy vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch both offer unique advantages for different preferences. The Fairy switches from Akko are perfect for office settings, featuring factory-applied lubrication for a smooth typing experience, medium weight for a satisfying press without causing fatigue, and a quiet operation that is conducive to a peaceful workspace. On the other hand, Wuque's WS Silent Tactile switches are also ideal for office environments, offering a medium tactility with superior noise reduction for a silent yet crisp typing experience. While the Fairy switch is known for its refined and muted feel, the WS Silent Tactile switch stands out for its innovative design that combines quiet operation with tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile are quite similar, as both feature nylon top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made from this material. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics. As a result, both the Fairy and WS Silent Tactile offer a more muted typing experience that may be preferred by those looking for a quieter keyboard.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, it's worth noting that the qualities of the housing are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that when you press down on the switch, you'll notice the difference in sound and tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound when you release a key, providing a consistent typing experience throughout the key press. This split in housing materials allows for a well-balanced typing experience that caters to both the downstroke and upstroke phases of typing.
Overall, the use of nylon housing in both the Akko Fairy and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile results in a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a more subdued typing sound. Whether you choose the Fairy or the WS Silent Tactile, you can expect a high-quality keyboard switch with nylon housing that provides a satisfying and quiet typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, coming in at 50 grams for the Fairy and None grams for the WS Silent Tactile. On the other hand, the Fairy has a slightly lower bottom out force of 60 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Fairy would be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, while the WS Silent Tactile would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, which is shorter than the 3.5mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch. The Fairy switch would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a slightly deeper keypress experience with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique advantages based on personal preference, with the Fairy being better for speed and the WS Silent Tactile providing a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to whether you prioritize response time or keypress depth in your typing experience.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. The Fairy switch is noted for its muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile offers a muted sound as well, achieved through precision engineering without the use of silicone dampeners, providing a silent yet crisp typing experience. Ultimately, the choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of these switches.
In terms of feel, the Akko Fairy linear switch is lauded for its polished and mild characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and subtle tactile feedback. This makes it suitable for extended use without causing fatigue, ideal for office settings where comfort is essential. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is described as being accented and invigorating, providing a medium tactile feel that is neither too soft nor too strong, creating an immersive typing sensation. Despite these differences, both switches are noted for their approachable qualities, catering to a wide range of users with varying preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch each offer unique characteristics in sound and feel that cater to specific preferences and environments. While the Fairy switch excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a balanced tactile feel suitable for professional use, the WS Silent Tactile switch stands out for its innovative design that combines silent operation with tactile feedback, creating a new standard in silent switches. Ultimately, both switches provide users with a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, ensuring that they can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel depending on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your priorities. If you value a smooth, quiet typing experience with medium resistance and factory-applied lubrication, the Fairy switch is the ideal choice, particularly for office settings where a peaceful environment is essential for focus and comfort. On the other hand, if you seek a silent yet tactically responsive switch with medium tactility and superior noise reduction without silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a new standard in silent switches, blending tranquility with precise feedback. Ultimately, the Fairy switch excels in providing a polished, mild typing experience with a muted sound, while the WS Silent Tactile switch offers an invigorating, mildly tactile feel and a neutral, muted sound profile. Consider your preferences and work environment to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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