Gateron CJ vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Akko Fairy, we see a contrast in their key characteristics. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique presentation of a linear switch, providing a higher-pitched clack and an incredibly smooth pushing sensation. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy stands out for its suitability in office environments, with a factory-applied lubrication ensuring a smooth typing experience and a well-balanced medium weight that prevents fatigue during extended use. While the CJ offers a chirpy and thocky typing experience, the Fairy provides a more polished and subtle feel. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them appealing for different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and Akko Fairy both utilize unique housing materials for their switches. The CJ features a proprietary INK blend for the top housing, which results in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Fairy uses nylon for the top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Despite the differences in sound profile, both top housings offer distinct typing experiences.
In terms of bottom housing, the CJ incorporates POM material, creating a deeper and relatively muted sound. This unique sound profile adds to the overall typing experience of the CJ switches. Conversely, the Fairy utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to the material's ability to absorb sound effectively. While both bottom housings result in a deeper sound profile, the specific qualities brought by the POM and nylon materials offer different tactile experiences for users of each switch.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on a switch, it is important to note how the top and bottom housings can influence sound and feel differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite the varying materials used in the Gateron CJ and Akko Fairy switches, the split qualities between the top and bottom housings ultimately contribute to a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches require 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 60 grams of force to fully bottom out. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force requirements when using either switch. The medium weight of these switches makes them suitable for a wide range of users. The similarity in actuation and bottom out forces means that whether you choose the Gateron CJ or the Akko Fairy linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper keypress feel compared to the Fairy's shallower travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Fairy due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more deliberate keypress may lean towards the CJ. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to individual preferences for keyboard feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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.
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 Gateron CJ linear switch is often described as having a chirpy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a more muted and neutral sound, making it a quieter option for office environments. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the CJ being more distinct in its high-pitched clacks and the Fairy being more subtle and gentle in its sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is often described as providing a mild typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users with its approachable qualities and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is known for its polished and subtle feel, thanks to factory-applied lubrication that reduces friction and provides a comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, with the CJ leaning towards a more gentle experience and the Fairy focusing on smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch is best suited for those who enjoy a unique and chirpy sound profile, along with a mild and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch caters to users looking for a more muted and refined sound, coupled with a polished and subtle typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience, ensuring that users will find similar levels of enjoyment and comfort when typing on either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you value a unique and satisfying typing experience with a higher-pitched sound and smooth push feel, the CJ switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and polished typing experience with factory-applied lubrication for a quieter workspace and extended comfort during long typing sessions, the Fairy switch from Akko might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific demands of your typing needs. Choose wisely based on your priorities and enjoy the tactile experience that best suits you.
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