KTT Cream Yellow vs. Akko Dracula
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko Dracula switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko Dracula both offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Cream Yellow switch stands out with its characteristic clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, which yields resonant audio feedback and a distinctly bouncy typing experience. This makes it an attractive option for users who enjoy an expressive audio profile while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Dracula switch focuses on providing an ultra-smooth typing experience through its innovative POK material for the top case and stem, along with an extra stem hole that enhances airflow and smoothness, making it ideal for those who prioritize a refined touch and consistent performance. While both switches fall under the linear category and offer pleasant typing experiences, their design focuses on different aspects—sound versus smoothness. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the Akko Dracula both utilize distinct top housing materials that contribute unique sound profiles and performance characteristics. The Cream Yellow features polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness and clarity, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This quality is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual aesthetics of illuminated switches. In contrast, the Dracula's POK plastic, while also designed for smooth performance, offers a different sound signature. POK’s slightly higher coefficient of friction brings about a smoother actuation feel, but it remains to be seen how it compares to polycarbonate in terms of sound clarity and tonal quality. Although both materials are designed to enhance the performance of switches, their inherent properties lead to distinct acoustic results.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, the similarities in using nylon become apparent. Both the Cream Yellow and the Akko Dracula feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which is known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This shared material characteristic means that regardless of the top housing composition, both switches will exhibit a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the feel and acoustics during the key press, users can expect a consistent sound sensation when bottoming out on either switch. As such, the complementary nature of these materials balances each other’s properties, allowing for unique yet harmonious sound experiences.
Ultimately, the differing top housing materials of the Cream Yellow and the Akko Dracula present an intriguing contrast while their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar foundation for tactile and acoustic performance. The polycarbonate top on the Cream Yellow delivers a crisper sound, whereas the POK top of the Dracula is tailored for a smoother feel despite its acoustic signature potentially leaning towards a softer note. This combination of distinct top and identical bottom housing materials means that while typing on each switch will evoke a unique sound, the overall experience remains cohesive, as the deeper sound from the nylon bottom housing anchors the auditory experience for both models. Users can appreciate the differences in tactile feedback while still enjoying similarities in the overall sound profile when pressing each key.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and Akko Dracula linear switches, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces, impacting user experience significantly. The Cream Yellow features a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Akko Dracula is lighter, with an actuation force of only 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a softer touch, allowing for prolonged use without fatigue. Consequently, the KTT Cream Yellow would be better suited for typists seeking a stronger push feel, while the Akko Dracula caters to those who prefer a lighter, more effortless keystroke. Thus, the Cream Yellow is the heavier switch, whereas the Dracula is the lighter option, leading to distinct typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dracula boasts a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Akko Dracula switch offers a more substantial feel when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more pronounced travel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow, with its shorter travel distance, may provide a more responsive experience, making it a better choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Thus, while both switches have their unique advantages, the Cream Yellow is the shorter option offering faster response times, and the Dracula is the longer option that delivers a heartier depth in keystrokes.
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 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 Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky auditory profile. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, making each keystroke noticeable without being overwhelmingly loud. In contrast, details regarding the sound profile of the Akko Dracula switch remain unknown, which means the auditory experience it provides is not as clearly defined. It's worth noting that factors such as the keyboard plate material and keycap design can significantly influence how these switches sound, potentially offering a more subdued or resonant tone depending on the configuration.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow offers a notably bouncy typing experience, characterized by a spring-like feedback that gives a lively rebound when the key is pressed. This makes it feel responsive and engaging for typists who appreciate an energetic typing sensation. On the other hand, the specifics regarding the feel of the Akko Dracula switch have not been detailed, leaving an unknown element for users to consider. However, it is designed with POK material which is intended to enhance durability and smoothness, suggesting a potentially refined typing experience that may rival or complement the Cream Yellow's bounciness.
In conclusion, while the KTT Cream Yellow switch shines with its clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Akko Dracula’s characteristics in those areas are less defined, particularly regarding its sound and tactile sensations. Users seeking a vivid auditory experience and lively feedback may lean toward the Cream Yellow. However, the potential smoothness and durability offered by the Akko Dracula could appeal to those valuing a different sort of typing experience. Ultimately, while the sound and feel of these two switches cater to different preferences, both can provide satisfying results depending on individual tastes and keyboard configurations.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Akko Dracula linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and the typing experience you seek. If you enjoy a more tactile and audibly satisfying experience, the Cream Yellow is an excellent choice. With its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, it provides a bouncy sensation reminiscent of a spring, perfect for those who appreciate a lively typing rhythm along with a distinctively clacky sound. This makes it particularly suitable for a lively gaming scenario or when you want to enjoy the acoustic feedback while typing long texts. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience, the Akko Dracula might be the better option for you. With its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, it offers a significantly softer touch that can benefit both fast typists and those who enjoy a more subdued sound profile. The innovative POK material and extra stem hole contribute to a seamless typing experience, making it ideal for long work sessions or environments where noise should be kept to a minimum. Ultimately, assess whether you prioritize auditory feedback and a bouncy feel or a smooth and muted typing experience, and let that guide your decision between these two fascinating switches.
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