Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offer two compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Akko Dracula switch distinguishes itself with its unique POK material used in the top case and stem, contributing to ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability. Its innovative design incorporates an additional stem hole that improves airflow and smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing a consistent, frictionless key feel during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its cost-effective performance without compromising quality. Leveraging Gateron's trusted proprietary mold, these switches provide a pleasing, poppy sound profile, which appeals to users who enjoy auditory feedback while maintaining a linear typing experience. Both switches have their own unique benefits: the Dracula for its exceptional smoothness and durability, while the Everfree Cedar stands out for its affordability and satisfying sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko Dracula and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches demonstrate notable differences in the materials used for their top housings, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Dracula's top housing is made from polyketone (POK), a material celebrated for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK allows for a gentle tactile experience, producing smooth action with a clacky sound profile when the keys are released. In contrast, the Everfree Cedar uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which, while also allowing for a smooth keypress, results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, making the key releases sound clearer compared to the softer, more muted response of the POK material in the Dracula.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Akko Dracula and Gateron Everfree Cedar utilize nylon, a common material in mechanical switch design. Nylon's softer plastic properties lend themselves to producing a deeper, fuller sound profile, making the experience of typing on either switch markedly similar in this regard. Both switches absorb sound effectively due to the nylon bottom, leading to a rounder sound when the keys are bottomed out. The shared use of nylon in their bottom housings helps to provide consistent auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience irrespective of the differences in their top housings.
When a user engages with either switch, the interplay between the differing top housing materials and the uniform bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall feel and sound of each keypress. The smooth yet clacky release characteristic of the Dracula, enabled by the POK top, contrasts with the crisper notes emitted from the polycarbonate top of the Everfree. However, as both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they produce that coveted deeper sound when keys are pressed down. This dual-material design allows for a dynamic typing experience where both switches showcase their strengths in different aspects, combining to provide a well-rounded and satisfying keystroke overall.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which caters to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is not specified, leaving uncertainty in that regard. As a result, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is heavier, appealing to different user preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, we find that the Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Everfree Cedar measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This means that the Akko Dracula offers a more pronounced key press, which can be more satisfying for typists who enjoy a deeper feel. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree Cedar, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times during gameplay. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive keypress, the Everfree Cedar would be the better option, while those who prefer a heartier depth in their keystrokes might find the Dracula more suitable. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Akko Dracula is the longer option at 3.8 mm, compared to the Gateron Everfree Cedar's 3.6 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Everfree (EF) Cedar for $2.75.
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
The Akko Dracula switch exhibits a sound profile that remains largely subdued, leaning towards a soft thock when bottoming out. This characteristic is enhanced by the POK material used in its construction, which contributes to the switch's overall quieter operation. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch brings a different auditory experience, delivering a more pronounced and poppy sound. Although the Everfree switches are recognized for their satisfying yet subtle auditory feedback, the specific overall sound can vary significantly depending on the keyboard’s build, including the type of board and keycaps utilized.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch is lauded for its ultra-smooth action, thanks to the innovative design that includes an extra stem hole. This design choice enhances the typing experience, allowing for a more fluid keystroke with less resistance. Meanwhile, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar also promotes a smooth typing experience, benefiting from Gateron's reputed mold technology. Users of both switches are likely to enjoy a consistent and uninterrupted keypress, although the Dracula may afford an edge in terms of overall smoothness during rapid typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Dracula switch leans towards a quieter, softer sound profile and an ultra-smooth feel, the Everfree Cedar delivers a more poppy sound with a reliable smoothness attributed to Gateron’s craftsmanship. While each switch has its unique qualities, both are adept at delivering an enjoyable typing experience, allowing users to choose based on personal preference in sound and feel while achieving a satisfying performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, your decision should reflect your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a light typing experience with a smooth tactile feedback, the Akko Dracula switch is an excellent choice, thanks to its 45-gram bottom out force and innovative design that enhances airflow and durability. The POK material used in the Dracula switch ensures a silky-smooth action, which is particularly appealing for those who spend extended hours typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you're looking for a cost-effective option without compromising on smooth performance, you might lean toward the Everfree (EF) Cedar, which is known for its reliable performance and satisfying sound profile. While the particulars of its bottom out force may not be specified, the switch is crafted with Gateron's trusted proprietary mold, promising a good experience overall. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize the light and ultra-smooth feel of the Akko Dracula or the value and consistency provided by the Gateron Everfree Cedar.
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