Akko Fairy vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Fairy linear switch to the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, both offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch, with its factory-applied lubrication and medium weight, is an excellent choice for office settings where a smooth and quiet typing experience is desired. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch provides a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, maintaining a frictionless feel that users appreciate. While the Fairy switch offers a balanced and comfortable typing feel, the New North Pole V2 switch delivers a more tactile and precise typing experience. 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Fairy and the Gateron New North Pole V2, the main difference lies in the material used for both the top and bottom housings. The Fairy utilizes nylon for both housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This choice creates a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 features polycarbonate for both housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound experience.
While both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the use of nylon in the Fairy and polycarbonate in the New North Pole V2 ultimately provides contrasting typing experiences. Typing on the Fairy will provide a softer and fuller sound, whereas the New North Pole V2 will deliver a sharper and more defined sound. Additionally, the aesthetic aspect is worth noting, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the New North Pole V2.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Fairy and the Gateron New North Pole V2 comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, users looking for a deeper, fuller sound may prefer the Fairy with its nylon top and bottom housings. On the other hand, those seeking a sharper, crisper sound may opt for the New North Pole V2 with its polycarbonate housings. Whichever switch is chosen, the housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have very similar actuation forces, with both requiring 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy has a slightly lighter touch at 60 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 62.5 grams. While both switches can be considered medium in terms of weight, the Fairy may feel slightly lighter to the touch during use. Some users may prefer the Fairy for longer typing or gaming sessions due to its lighter bottom out force, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier feel of the New North Pole V2 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Akko Fairy switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch may provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 and neutral sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch's sound characteristics are not mentioned, so it is difficult to directly compare. However, assuming the Gateron New North Pole V2 retains the smoothness and frictionless feel of its predecessor, it may also offer a subdued and quiet typing sound, making it suitable for shared spaces or quieter environments.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as polished, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and reduced friction. This makes it comfortable for extended use without causing fatigue. The Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, on the other hand, is also described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a buttery smooth typing sensation with minimal resistance and effortless key travel. Both switches seem to prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing feel, making them well-suited for long typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch seem to offer a refined and smooth typing experience with a focus on comfort and reduced noise. While the specific sound characteristics of the Gateron New North Pole V2 are not explicitly mentioned, based on its smooth and frictionless feel, it is likely to provide a quieter typing sound similar to the Akko Fairy. Ultimately, both switches appear to be excellent choices for users looking for a pleasant and comfortable typing experience in various settings.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your working environment and typing preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile suitable for an office setting, the Akko Fairy switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing feel with a frictionless glide and a creamy sensation, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so it's important to consider what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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