Gateron CJ vs. Akko Dracula

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often narrows down to personal preference in typing feel and sound profile, and two notable linear switches that often come up are the Gateron CJ and the Akko Dracula. The Gateron CJ is celebrated for its unique auditory character, producing higher-pitched clacks alongside an exceptionally smooth actuation, making it a delight for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Akko Dracula focuses on innovation with its POK material construction, which not only promotes ultra-smooth keystrokes but also enhances durability, thanks to its thoughtful design that includes an additional stem hole for improved airflow. While the CJ offers a chirpy yet neutral experience, the Dracula promises durability and a smoother typing experience. Both switches cater to different typing preferences, making them appealing for various types of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

Akko Dracula Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Akko Dracula, one can observe notable differences that impact both the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. The Gateron CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing which produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Akko Dracula employs a POK top housing material, known for its smoothness and durability with a slightly higher friction coefficient. While both top housing materials aim to create an engaging auditory experience, the CJ's blend delivers a more aggressive and sharp pitch, while the Dracula's POK leans towards a smoother sound, though both maintain a clacky essence that keyboard enthusiasts often seek.

Examining the bottom housings, the Gateron CJ features a POM material while the Akko Dracula opts for nylon. The POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and relatively muted sound, as its hard plastic nature creates a unique auditory profile with distinct resonance characteristics. In comparison, nylon is recognized for its softness, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively and thus produce a fuller, rounder sound. Both materials bring their own qualities to the typing experience: POM's harder structure impacts the bottom-out sound while the nylon's softer composition provides a deepening effect on overall acoustics. The interplay of these materials in the bottom housing leads to differentiated auditory and tactile experiences as users engage with the switches.

Overall, although both the Gateron CJ and Akko Dracula switches uniquely shape their sound profiles through different housing materials, they each achieve similarly compelling results through the blending of their top and bottom housings. The CJ's combination of a clacky top with a muted bottom results in an aggressive, sharply defined sound, while the Dracula balances a smooth top with a rich bottom for a fuller auditory experience. The experience is further nuanced by the distinct effects each housing material has when pressing down and releasing the keys, as the top housing primarily influences the release sound, and the bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out feel and noise. Thus, while different in materials, both switches are designed to provide delightful acoustic experiences for typists, depending on individual preferences.

Weight

The Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch present contrasting tactile experiences, particularly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CJ switch features a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for a greater sense of resistance and feedback. In contrast, the Akko Dracula switch is lighter, with an actuation force of only 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions and gaming due to its ease of activation. Consequently, users seeking a lighter switch for comfort during extended use may gravitate towards the Dracula, while those who appreciate a firmer feel might opt for the heavier CJ switch. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the varied user preferences when it comes to switch feel and responsiveness.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch, the Gateron CJ offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Dracula features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the CJ switch is better suited for those who prefer a more substantial key press—providing a hearty depth—while the Dracula caters to users seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Gamers may gravitate towards the shorter Akko Dracula switch for its potential performance advantages, although some users might find the equally responsive, yet deeper, action of the CJ more satisfying. In summary, the Gateron CJ has a longer travel distance, making it ideal for those who appreciate a fuller keystroke, whereas the Akko Dracula, with its shorter travel, is aimed at those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron CJ linear switch is characterized by a blend of higher-pitched clacks, combined with unique descriptors like "chirpy" and "thocky." This combination offers a slight squeak that differentiates it from more traditional mechanical switches, potentially resulting in a more distinctive acoustic experience while typing. In contrast, the Akko Dracula switch does not have a specified sound profile available for comparison. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of each switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction, the material of the keycaps, and the type of plate used.

When it comes to the feel, the CJ switch stands out with its incredibly smooth push and mild typing experience. Described as offering a gentle touch, it achieves an approachable balance that suits both beginners and seasoned typists alike. The Akko Dracula switch, on the other hand, promises ultra-smooth typing due to the innovative POK material used in its construction, though specific descriptors of its feel have not been provided for direct comparison. Nevertheless, the emphasis on smoothness in both switches suggests a similar enjoyable typing experience, albeit possibly achieved through different technologies or materials.

In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ and Akko Dracula linear switches present their unique strengths, particularly in sound and feel. The CJ switch is celebrated for its distinctive sound, ranging from chirpy to thocky, and a mild typing feel that caters to a broad range of users. Meanwhile, the Dracula switch focuses on enhanced durability and smoothness, which aligns with the goal of providing a pleasant typing experience. While there are clear differences in their sound signatures, both switches promise a refined feel that should appeal to different typing preferences, making either choice a solid option for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a smooth push feel combined with a unique acoustic signature, the CJ switch may be the better option for you, especially if you enjoy a chirpy or thocky sound with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams. This makes it versatile for both home and office environments, catering well to those who seek an engaging typing experience without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Akko Dracula switch, with its 45 grams of bottom-out force, offers an ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its innovative POK material and design features. This switch could be ideal for fast typists or gamers looking for swift responses and less finger fatigue. Therefore, you should choose the Gateron CJ for a stimulating auditory and tactile experience or go for the Akko Dracula if you favor lightness and simplicity in your typing without compromising on durability.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

Akko Dracula Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

Learn more