Akko Dracula vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both present appealing options, though they cater to slightly different preferences. The Akko Dracula switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material, delivering an ultra-smooth typing experience and enhanced durability, thanks to its extra stem hole that improves airflow. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a seamless and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is known for offering a heavier actuation, with a 60g force that leads to a more substantial typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a firmer touch. Additionally, its design includes features that enhance RGB lighting, making it perfect for those who appreciate a visually striking setup. While both switches are linear and provide smooth keystrokes, their unique characteristics cater to different typing preferences. 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
35g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula switches and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, significant differences underscore their impact on sound profile and durability. The top housing of the Dracula utilizes POK material, which boasts a notably low coefficient of friction at 0.04, making it one of the smoothest options available. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black switches are made with Gateron's proprietary INK blend, designed to create a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile. While both materials support smooth keypresses, the sound produced during operation varies significantly—POK offers a unique balance of clackiness, while the INK blend has a sharper tonality.
Examining the bottom housing materials reveals another contrast that affects the switches' overall auditory experience. The Dracula employs nylon, known for its softness and sound-absorbing qualities, which generates a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a more muted yet pleasing sound. POM’s harder composition lends its unique character that keeps the overall sound on the deeper side, yet it maintains a distinction from the rounder tones of the nylon utilized in the Dracula. Thus, each switch offers a diverse experience based on the material used in its construction, creating unique auditory signatures.
Ultimately, the differing materials in the top and bottom housings contribute to how the respective switches feel and sound during usage. For users seeking a smoother feel and a high-pitched, clacky response, the POK top housing of the Dracula paired with nylon below may provide satisfying feedback with a rounded sound. In contrast, those who prefer a more muted yet unique auditory experience might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black featuring POM and INK blends. While these switches vary considerably in their composition and sound profile, both can deliver satisfactory performances, bolstering the argument that the choice of housing materials can dramatically shape the user experience while still allowing for similar tactile responses across different switches.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to distinct preferences in typing feel. The Akko Dracula is on the lighter side with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a quick, effortless keystroke—great for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may appreciate for its tactile feedback. Consequently, if you prefer lighter switches, the Akko Dracula would be the better choice, while enthusiasts looking for a stronger push should lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black. Overall, these differences in force characteristics shape the typing experience and serve various user preferences effectively.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Dracula switch the shorter option between the two, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more traditional travel experience, offering a greater depth that some users might find more satisfying and less abrupt. Consequently, users who prefer the feel of a deeper keypress may favor the G Pro 3.0 Black for its 4 mm travel distance, while those looking for swifter actuation may opt for the Akko Dracula. This distinction in travel distance ultimately highlights the differing preferences among switch users, where shorter distances suit those favoring responsiveness, and longer distances cater to those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Akko Dracula switch does not have specific attributes described, leaving its acoustic footprint somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black two distinct characteristics: it provides a clacky sound, which is defined as sharp and snappy, along with a more subdued auditory profile that presents a dampened sound. This duality allows users to choose the acoustic experience they prefer, but overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black is more defined in its sound characteristics compared to the Dracula switch.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch also lacks detailed descriptions, making it difficult to assess its tactile experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black is characterized as creamy and silky, delivering a smooth, buttery typing experience. This smoothness is enhanced by the quality of materials and likely factory lubrication, allowing for effortless keystrokes. Additionally, it provides a subtle resistance that is not overly heavy, making it accessible for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. This fluid typing sensation contrasts with the unknown feel of the Dracula switch.
In summary, while the Akko Dracula switch offers an innovative design featuring POK materials for durability and smooth operation, it lacks detailed descriptions regarding both sound and feel. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch presents a well-defined auditory experience, characterized by both clackiness and subdued tones, alongside a creamy, silky typing experience that many users find appealing. Thus, for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of what a linear switch can offer, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clearer picture, whereas the Akko Dracula leaves some qualities open to interpretation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer lighter key presses with a smooth and ultra-responsive feel, the Akko Dracula switch is an excellent option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for quick and effortless typing, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or long typing sessions without fatigue. The innovative POK material enhances durability and provides a silky-smooth experience. This switch also caters well to quieter environments due to its subtle sound profile, which can be particularly advantageous if you’re sharing your workspace. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black would be the better choice for you. With its 70-gram bottom-out force, it offers a satisfying resistance that many typists and gamers appreciate for better feedback during use. Additionally, its creamy and silky feel delivers a premium typing experience, further enriched by its clacky auditory profile and vibrant RGB lighting capabilities. In summary, choose the Akko Dracula for a light, smooth, and quieter typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is perfect for those who prefer a more tactile and robust feel.
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