Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Akko Dracula
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko Dracula switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko Dracula present distinct yet appealing options for typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa - 28g stands out with its exceptionally light 28g actuation force, making it incredibly responsive and ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Its bright sound profile contributes to a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Dracula switch incorporates POK material for its top case and stem, offering a blend of ultra-smooth keystrokes and enhanced durability. With its innovative design featuring an extra stem hole for improved airflow, the Dracula provides a unique typing experience aimed at those who value smoothness and consistency in their keystrokes. Both switches cater to different preferences, either for those who enjoy a light and lively typing feel with the Chiikawa or those who prioritize durability and smoothness with the Dracula. 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
28g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko Dracula switches showcase distinct top housing materials that influence their sound profiles significantly. The Chiikawa features polycarbonate for its top housing, a material renowned for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate’s stiffness allows it to produce a clear and resonant sound profile, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Akko Dracula employs POK, or polyketone, which, while also high-quality, results in a smooth and clacky sound, distinct from the Chiikawa's sharper tonal characteristics. While both materials are strong and durable, the differences in their construction yield varied auditory experiences, making the choice between the two largely based on the desired sound characteristics.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, they both utilize nylon, a classic material in the keyboard switch community for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing means that both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko Dracula will deliver a comparable bottom-out sound and tactile feel, as nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound waves. This shared characteristic provides a sense of consistency in auditory feedback when typing, despite the differences in their respective top housings. Therefore, even though the top housings might create distinct sound profiles, the nylon bottom ensures that users still experience a rich sound regardless of the switch they opt for.
Ultimately, the interaction between the materials in the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Akko Dracula switches demonstrates a fascinating interplay of sound production. In settings where users are keen on exploiting RGB lighting, the polycarbonate of the Chiikawa shines, while the Akko Dracula offers a smoother typing experience with its POK housing. However, the common use of nylon in the bottom housing establishes a baseline resonance quality that both switches share. This consistency highlights how the materials work together to shape the overall typing experience, allowing users to expect a satisfying bottom-out sound from both switches, while differentiating in the tonal profiles produced during key release, thus catering to varying preferences for keyboard acoustic signature.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, appealing to different user preferences. The Chiikawa features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it a better choice for those who seek a lightweight typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long sessions. In contrast, the Akko Dracula has a heavier actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, if someone prefers a lightweight switch, the Chiikawa is the clear choice, while those who favor a stronger push feel will likely gravitate towards the Dracula.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch, the differences become quite evident. The Chiikawa - 28g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko Dracula offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Chiikawa switch provides a shorter travel distance, which can cater to gamers or users who prefer quicker response times and a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dracula switch may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keypress and a deeper tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and depth in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is characterized by a bright sound profile that produces a crisp, high-pitched noise when typing. This makes it very responsive and suitable for those who appreciate an energetic audio feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Dracula linear switch, known for its POK material, introduces a smoother sound experience. While both switches deliver a satisfying auditory feedback, the Chiikawa's bright and crisp tone may appeal more to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response, whereas the Dracula may cater to those seeking a softer, more muted sound profile. It is important to note that the sound characteristics can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard itself and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch is recognized for its very light actuation force, allowing for an easier and more responsive typing experience. This makes it a great choice for rapid typists or those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Akko Dracula switch boasts an ultra-smooth feel due to its innovative design that incorporates an extra stem hole for improved airflow, contributing to a refined typing experience. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the Chiikawa's lightweight actuation will feel distinctly different from the Dracula's solidity and refined motion. As a result, users may gravitate towards one based on their personal preference for either a lighter touch or a smoother action.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Akko Dracula linear switches present unique qualities that can cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa excels with its bright sound and very light feel, making it highly responsive for typists who enjoy a more energetic experience. In contrast, the Dracula offers a smooth, durable typing feel with a slightly muted sound, desirable for those who prioritize comfort and quiet operation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prefer the lively audibility and lighter action of the Chiikawa or the refined smoothness and durability of the Dracula. Both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, but the nuances in sound and feel will guide your decision.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer an incredibly light actuation force and a bright, high-pitched sound that makes for a responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa switch may be your ideal choice, especially if you're into fast-paced gaming or typing tasks that require quick responsiveness. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a bit more resistance with a bottom out force of 45 grams, the Akko Dracula switch may be more suited to your needs, providing ultra-smooth keystrokes and enhanced durability thanks to its innovative POK material design. This might also appeal to you if you enjoy a quieter experience while typing, as it can mitigate the louder sound profiles of other switches. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—lightness and sound versus smoothness and durability—to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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