Akko Fairy vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Fairy and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches designed for smooth keystrokes. The Akko Fairy is tailored for office environments, featuring a refined, factory-applied lubrication that provides a velvety typing experience with a medium weight that balances satisfying resistance and comfort, making it ideal for prolonged use without causing fatigue. Its muted and polished characteristics create a quieter atmosphere, perfect for professional tasks. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) elevates the typing experience with a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile, paired with a POM stem that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched resonance. This heavier variant stands out for those who appreciate a robust and precise performance, blending sophistication with functionality. While both switches offer smooth operation and linear characteristics, their tailored designs cater to different preferences and environments. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Fairy and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, a choice that significantly influences the auditory and tactile experience of typing on these switches. Nylon is well-regarded in the switch manufacturing realm for its sound-enhancing properties; it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs sound instead of reflecting it, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both the Fairy and Xinhai (Heavy) are characterized by this trait, allowing users to experience a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity in housing materials leads to comparable acoustic results, providing users with a satisfying auditory experience regardless of the differences in design or branding between the two switches.
Moreover, the synergy between the top and bottom housings in both switches reinforces the idea that they deliver a coherent sound profile that is unlikely to diverge significantly. The bottom housing, while primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, benefits from the sound-dampening qualities of nylon, ensuring that the overall typing experience maintains a balanced tone. Since both switches employ the same nylon material for both top and bottom housings, type feedback and auditory feedback are harmoniously aligned. Thus, regardless of individual design variants, both the Fairy and Xinhai (Heavy) switches promise a uniform and engaging typing experience.
It's important to note that, while the sounds produced by both switches are similar due to the nylon housing material, variations may still exist based on their internal mechanics and the overall structural design. Differences in other switch components, like spring tension or stem design, can subtly impact the tactile feedback and key travel dynamics. However, since the housing material is the same, both switches will likely yield a comparable sound profile when pressed, which is often a primary consideration for typists and gamers alike. Therefore, those seeking a specific auditory experience may find satisfaction in either option, as both harness the acoustic benefits of nylon for a fulfilling typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are subtle differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that highlight their unique characteristics. The Akko Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a slightly lighter option suitable for users who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a firmer feel that may appeal to those who prefer a stronger tactile response and stability in their typing experience. While both switches fall under the medium category, it is clear that the Akko Fairy is the lighter switch, offering a bit more ease of activation, whereas the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is the heavier choice, suitable for those looking for a more substantial push. Overall, users can expect a softer experience with the Fairy and a firmer one with the Xinhai, depending on their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Akko Fairy has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference positions the Akko Fairy as the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users seeking faster response times due to its more shallow actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), with its 3.4 mm travel distance, may cater to those who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing the keys, allowing for a heartier depth that some users find more comfortable. Ultimately, your choice between these switches can hinge on your preference for responsiveness versus the tactile feedback of a deeper travel distance.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 switches are designed to provide a muted and neutral auditory experience, making them an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is crucial. Their softer character minimizes the clatter commonly associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. This makes them suitable for office settings where focus and quietness are paramount. In contrast, while the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches is less defined in the provided details, one can anticipate that their unique housing materials may impart a richer acoustic quality. However, without specific descriptors for their sound characteristics, a direct comparison remains elusive.
Regarding feel, the Akko Fairy switches shine with their polished, mild, and subtle characteristics. The refined finish and factory lubrication result in an incredibly smooth typing sensation, reducing friction and enhancing overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Their mild resistance makes them accessible to a wide range of users, striking a balance that doesn’t overwhelm the typist while still providing satisfying feedback. On the other hand, details about the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches are again unspecified, leaving potential users in the dark about their tactile qualities. However, given their reputation as a heavier switch variant, one could infer that they might present a firmer resistance, adding a distinctive feel.
In conclusion, while both the Akko Fairy and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches cater to different user preferences, they each offer unique advantages. The Fairy switches excel in quiet environments with their muted sound profile and smooth, comfortable typing experience, making them an ideal choice for office use. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) switches may appeal to those who prefer a more robust typing feel, though the specifics of their sound and tactile feedback remain less clear. Ultimately, both options have the potential to enhance your typing experience, but your choice may pivot on the acoustic and tactile characteristics that best suit your personal or professional environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your specific needs and usage scenarios. If you seek a smooth and comfortable typing experience in a quieter environment—be it at the office or while working from home—the Akko Fairy is likely the better option for you. Its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, combined with factory lubrication, ensures a polished feel and a muted sound profile, making it perfect for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue or distraction. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a bit more resistance with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, the Xinhai (Heavy) could be more to your liking. With its unique acoustic characteristics and a crisper sound due to the POM stem, this switch might appeal more to those who enjoy a touch of sophistication in their keyboard sound profile and performance. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard; both switches bring unique strengths to the table, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal style and needs.
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