Akko Dracula vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and desired typing experience. The Akko Dracula switch is an enticing linear option, renowned for its ultra-smooth keystrokes and durability, thanks to its innovative POK material and extra stem hole designed for improved airflow. Linear switches like the Dracula are favored for their seamless actuation, making them ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch represents a solid tactile alternative within Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series. With a gentle bump that enhances typing without being intrusive, these switches provide a pleasant tactile sensation, combined with a satisfying auditory feedback and an aesthetically pleasing frosted light diffuser that amplifies RGB lighting. While both switches cater to different preferences—smoothness versus tactile feedback—each brings unique benefits to the keyboard experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, the differences between their top housing materials reveal how these switches each take on a unique auditory profile. The Dracula employs a POK top housing, a material renowned for its smoothness and durability, exhibiting a coefficient of friction of 0.04, which is slightly higher than the G Pro's polycarbonate top housing. This results in the G Pro 3.0 Brown producing a sharper and crisper sound due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which amplifies clarity and resonance. While the Akko’s POK is designed for a smooth and clacky experience, the Gateron’s polycarbonate structure accentuates higher-pitched sounds, which leads to a nuanced auditory experience influenced by the material's stiffness and translucency, especially under RGB lighting.
The bottom housings of both switches introduce an intriguing contrast and similarity. Both the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown utilize nylon as their bottom housing material, resulting in a shared auditory characteristic: the creation of a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is recognized for its softer plastic composition, which allows it to absorb sound effectively, thus softening the impact when a key bottoms out. Despite the differences in top housing composition, the nylon bottoms harmonize the overall typing experience between these two switches, ensuring that users enjoy the deeper tones that nylon provides, while the dynamics introduced by differing top housing materials influence how the sound is perceived, particularly when releasing a key.
When considering the overall performance of the switches, the interplay between the different materials used in the Akko Dracula and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown creates a distinct experience based on their respective designs. The POK material in the Dracula provides smoothness and durability that complement the deeper tones produced by the nylon bottom, while the polycarbonate top in the G Pro emphasizes brightness and clarity alongside a similar depth from its nylon bottom. These differentiated materials suggest that while users may experience different auditory profiles and tactile feedback, both switches can yield satisfying results depending on preference; the choice ultimately depends on whether one desires clarity and pitch versus smoothness and clack in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, notable differences arise in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, facilitating extended typing sessions or intense gaming without excessive strain. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown comes with a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel for their typing experience. Consequently, the Dracula switch is the lighter option, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is heavier, catering to differing preferences in keyboard feel. Typists looking for fatigue-free long use may opt for the lighter Dracula, whereas those who favor a more pronounced tactile feedback might lean towards the heavier G Pro 3.0 Brown.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more traditional depth, providing a bit more feedback to users who prefer a hearty feel under their fingers as they press down on the keys. In contrast, the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the Dracula switch caters to gamers who value quicker response times and more immediate actuation. However, this shorter distance might feel too abrupt for users who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: the Akko Dracula will likely appeal to those seeking enhanced responsiveness, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is better suited for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience.
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 Brown 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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Dracula switch's auditory qualities remain unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for delivering a medium-high pitch sound that provides satisfying auditory feedback. This makes each keystroke feel rewarding, enhancing the typing experience without being overly loud or distracting. However, keep in mind that the overall sound of both switches will also depend on the compatibility of the keyboard board and the keycaps used, which can further influence the acoustic profile.
When considering feel, the Akko Dracula switch is recognized for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to the use of POK material and innovative design features like the extra stem hole for improved airflow. This leads to a very fluid keystroke that many users appreciate. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an easy-to-press action with gentle resistance, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Its mild tactile bump feels approachable, situated in the middle ground, appealing to typists who desire a light tactile feedback without the pronounced characteristics of more aggressive tactile switches. The stepped design of the G Pro Brown allows users to experience a subtle distinction during key presses, adding a layer of nuance to the typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the specific sound characteristics of the Dracula remain unknown, its ultra-smooth typing experience offers a unique advantage over the easy-to-press, mild tactile feedback of the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Each switch has its strengths, with the Dracula focusing on smooth key action and the G Pro providing a balanced tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your typing style and the sensory feedback you seek.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard experience. If you prefer a lighter key press and an ultra-smooth feeling while typing, the Akko Dracula switch would be your ideal choice. Its design caters to those who want a seamless keystroke with a gentle bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it perfect for long typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. This switch shines if you're after quiet and smooth operation, allowing for a more distraction-free environment. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback while typing and want a more pronounced sensation with a satisfying auditory response, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is likely your best fit. With its medium actuation force of 63 grams, it provides a gentle bump that can enhance your typing rhythm without being intrusive, making it suitable for both typing and gaming scenarios. The choice between these two comes down to whether you prioritize a light, smooth linear experience or a balanced tactile response with a bit more resistance. Both switches have their unique strengths, so consider your typing style and requirements to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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