KTT Cabbage Tofu vs. Akko Dracula
An in-depth look at the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Akko Dracula switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Akko Dracula stand out as two compelling linear options for typists and gamers alike, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Cabbage Tofu is celebrated for its enhanced tactility and responsiveness, thanks to a specialized 22mm spring that allows for a swift rebound after actuation. This quick transition between keystrokes makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a dynamic typing experience, accompanied by a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding—a characteristic that lends an engaging auditory element to your keystrokes. On the other hand, the Akko Dracula switch boasts innovative POK material in its construction, providing ultra-smooth typing and remarkable durability. Its design incorporates an extra stem hole for improved airflow and an overall smoother experience, appealing to users who prioritize seamless keystrokes without compromising the structural integrity of the switch. Both switches offer a unique blend of performance and tactile feedback, yet they cater to different user experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Akko Dracula, a clear distinction can be seen in their top housing compositions, while their bottom housings bear striking similarities. The Cabbage Tofu features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This quality allows for a more pronounced resonance, making it especially suitable for setups that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the Akko Dracula utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing, prized for its durability and smoothness. While POK exhibits less transparency than polycarbonate, its higher strength contributes to a different sonic character, characterized as smooth and clacky. The contrasting properties of these two top housing materials highlight not just differences in aesthetic and durability but also in the auditory experience and performance during typing.
On the other hand, both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and Akko Dracula share the same bottom housing material: nylon. This choice ensures that both switches offer a deep and full sound profile during use, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. The sound character produced by the bottom portion of both switches is consistent, resulting in a rounded and warm auditory experience. Given that the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, both switches will exhibit an inviting tactile experience, further contributing to user preference based on acoustic feedback.
The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials significantly shapes the overall performance of both the KTT Cabbage Tofu and the Akko Dracula. While each top housing material contributes its unique properties, the similar bottom housing of nylon ensures that users experience a depth of sound common to both switches. This synergy means that, despite their differences in top housing, users can achieve comparable performances when it comes to the overall sound profile during typing. Thus, while one may favor the clarity of polycarbonate or the durability of POK, the shared nylon bottom guarantees that both options deliver a satisfying auditory sensation that many keyboard enthusiasts appreciate.
Weight
The KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cabbage Tofu, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offers a medium-light feel that may appeal to users seeking a balance between comfort and feedback. In contrast, the Akko Dracula switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Dracula is considered the lighter option, while the Cabbage Tofu is heavier and might provide a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Overall, these differences in actuation and bottom out forces suggest that the choice between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences for typing feel and intended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch, we find that the Cabbage Tofu has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dracula has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Cabbage Tofu offers a deeper, more traditional feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a heftier sensation while typing. In contrast, the Akko Dracula's shorter distance caters more to those who seek responsiveness, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who benefit from quicker key actuation. Therefore, if you prioritize a deeper keystroke, the KTT Cabbage Tofu would be the better choice, while the Akko Dracula is ideal for those who favor a snappier response. Overall, the difference in travel distance reflects varying user preferences regarding typing experience and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cabbage Tofu has an MSRP of $3.25 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cabbage Tofu for $2.75.
The Akko Dracula has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dracula for $3.29.
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 KTT Cabbage Tofu switch delivers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by its clacky and high-pitched tones. This sound profile, akin to the sharp clinking of Mahjong tiles, provides a bright and percussive feedback that typists often find satisfying. In contrast, the Akko Dracula switch does not have a specified sound description available, which leaves its acoustic qualities open to exploration and personal preference. However, it's essential to consider that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap materials used, which may lead to a variety of experiences even for the same switch.
Regarding the feel, the Cabbage Tofu excels in providing a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience along with a snappy responsiveness due to its well-engineered design, including the lengthened 22mm spring. This results in a typing encounter that feels smooth and effortless, creating a sensation of gliding over the keys with relative ease. On the other hand, the Akko Dracula switch lacks detailed descriptions about its tactile qualities, leaving its overall feel less defined. This absence means potential users may want to try it out for themselves to determine how it compares in terms of smoothness and responsiveness.
Overall, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its crisp sound and buttery feel, the Akko Dracula switch remains enigmatic in its acoustic and tactile properties. The known qualities of the Cabbage Tofu reflect a well-rounded option for those seeking an energetic and refined typing experience. Without definitive information about the Dracula's sound and feel, newcomers might find themselves curious and open to experimentation, potentially leading to a discovery of unique qualities that resonate with their typing preferences. For a newcomer, exploring both switches could reveal complementary characteristics suitable for various typing needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the context in which you plan to use them. If you prioritize a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a quick rebound for enhanced typist responsiveness, the Cabbage Tofu might be the perfect fit for you. Its clacky, high-pitched sound profile and creamy, polished feel create an engaging typing experience that many typists appreciate, particularly in gaming or fast-paced work environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke with ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability, the Akko Dracula switch is an excellent choice. This switch's thoughtful design leads to a seamless and effortless typing experience that caters to those who value comfort over long typing sessions. Thus, your individual needs—whether you seek a tactile and feedback-rich experience with the Cabbage Tofu or a laid-back, smooth glide with the Dracula—should guide your final decision.
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