KTT Cream Yellow vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko Fairy, there are distinct differences to take into account. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its distinctive clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Fairy switch from Akko stands out for its factory-applied lubrication that offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it perfect for office settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to 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
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko Fairy, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Fairy features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate of the Cream Yellow provides a more resonant and clear sound, while the nylon of the Fairy absorbs more sound, creating a rounder tone.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing material of the two switches. Both the Cream Yellow and the Fairy utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material may result in comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel, with both switches offering a satisfying typing experience characterized by a deeper sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Cream Yellow and the Fairy plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing on these switches. While the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Fairy's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, resulting in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between these switches highlight the nuances in sound and feel that can be achieved through varying materials in switch construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Cream Yellow has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Fairy has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow is slightly lighter in terms of the force needed to bottom out, while the Fairy requires a slightly stronger push for a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Cream Yellow, while those who prefer a heavier touch for a more tactile feel may prefer the Fairy. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium actuation force, providing a similar typing experience with slight differences in bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Fairy. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers for improved response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Fairy with the shorter travel distance. However, individuals who enjoy a deeper keypress experience may find the Cream Yellow more appealing due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 KTT Cream Yellow linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. In contrast, the Akko Fairy linear switch provides a muted sound that is softer and quieter, creating a more subdued typing experience suitable for office settings. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Cream Yellow offering a more pronounced and resonant sound while the Fairy provides a more subtle and serene typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like feedback that gives a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch offers a polished and mild typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to factory-applied lubrication. The Fairy switch also provides a subtle resistance that is gentle and light, making it comfortable for extended use without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to whether you prefer a more lively and bouncy feel or a smoother and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, providing a distinct and energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch offers a more subdued sound and polished feel, making it ideal for quieter office environments and extended daily use. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize sound feedback or typing comfort in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch or the Akko Fairy linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted sound, a polished and smooth typing feel, and a switch that is conducive to a quieter workspace and extended use, then the Fairy switch from Akko would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the specific environment in which you plan to use them.
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