Akko Dracula vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both offer compelling features tailored to different user needs. The Akko Dracula switch is designed with POK material for its top case and stem, ensuring an ultra-smooth typing experience while enhancing durability. Its innovative design includes an extra stem hole that promotes improved airflow, making for a unique and refined experience, particularly suited for typists seeking comfort and longevity. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch shines in the realm of gaming, boasting a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm—compared to the standard 4mm—that allows for rapid key presses and responsiveness crucial for competitive gameplay. Enhanced with vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch sound profile that adds an exhilarating auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver focuses on delivering performance without straining your budget. While both switches are classified as linear, they cater to different preferences: the Akko Dracula for those who prioritize smooth typing and durability, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver for gamers seeking quick and responsive feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, the distinction in their top housings becomes instantly apparent. The Dracula employs a top housing made of POK (polyketone), a material renowned for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK offers minimal resistance which enhances the overall fluidity of pressing keys. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials support efficient switch performance, they lead to different audible experiences; the POK’s smooth nature lends a clacky sound, while the polycarbonate’s rigid properties produce a clearer and more resonant tone. Ultimately, users looking for a satisfying tactile response may find the polyketone's qualities more to their liking, while those who favor clear audio feedback may prefer the polycarbonate.
The bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, making this aspect a point of similarity between the two. Nylon is widely recognized for its ability to absorb sound, which contributes to a deeper and fuller acoustic profile when typing. This commonality means that, regardless of the differing top materials, both switches will share a similar sound quality when bottomed out, as the softer nylon provides a more muted auditory experience compared to harder plastics. Thus, both the Akko Dracula and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver will elicit a rounder sound and tactile feel that is reminiscent of traditional switches known for their use of nylon. This similarity in bottom housing material signifies that users can expect a comparable performance in the characteristic sound when bottoming out the keys.
In observing how the unique qualities of the top and bottom housings interact, it's clear that each switch offers an individual yet complementary experience based on its construction. For instance, the POK top housing of the Dracula enhances the release sound quality, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall feel and bottom-out sound. Similarly, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a more articulated sound on release, combined with that familiar full-bodied resonance from the nylon bottom. The interplay between the two materials is essential for achieving distinct auditory experiences, showing that while the materials diverge in terms of performance characteristics, they achieve similarly pleasing results in sound profile and tactile feedback because of their common nylon component in the base. Thus, while each switch may cater to different preferences in top housing material, they converge in delivering satisfying typing feedback through their shared nylon construction.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer distinct actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize ease of pressing and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly firmer bottom out force of 50 grams, which may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While both switches are considered light overall, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, fostering comfort for prolonged use, whereas the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a bit more resistance, which may appeal to heavier typists. Thus, users seeking a gentle touch will gravitate towards the Akko Dracula, while those desiring more feedback in their keystrokes might prefer the Gateron option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, the Akko Dracula offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Akko Dracula switch provides a more substantial depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more traditional and tactile experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's shorter travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers who value speed. Thus, for users seeking a more responsive feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch will be the better option, while those who appreciate a more pronounced key press might prefer the Akko Dracula switch.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 linear switch remains undefined, so it’s difficult to provide a direct comparison. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches produce a distinctly thocky sound profile, characterized by a rich and deep auditory experience. With a low-pitched and bassy tone, these switches deliver a satisfying "thud" when pressed, enhancing the overall aural engagement during both gaming and typing. However, it’s essential to note that sound characteristics can vary significantly depending on the keyboard build and keycap choice, so while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a known sound profile, the Dracula's sound remains a question mark at this point.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch has not been explicitly described, leaving its tactile experience open to interpretation. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are characterized by their buttery and creamy keystrokes. This smooth typing sensation makes for a highly enjoyable experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The buttery feel could be attributed to the materials used or potential lubrication during manufacturing, which contributes to its creamy texture during use. The engaging tactile response of the G Pro 3.0 Silver adds to its appeal, particularly for gamers who require quick and responsive typing.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch stands out with its well-defined sound and feel qualities—namely its thocky sound and buttery, creamy keystrokes—the Akko Dracula switch lacks specific information on these metrics, making a comprehensive comparison challenging. If you’re drawn to a smooth typing experience and robust sound, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a clear advantage; however, the Dracula switch could also be a worthy contender if it can match these attributes. As always, personal preference plays a significant role, and experiencing each switch firsthand is the best way to determine which aligns with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize typing ergonomics and a smoother experience, the Dracula switch may be the better option for you, thanks to its ultra-smooth design, enhanced durability from POK materials, and unique features to improve airflow during use. This makes it particularly appealing for general typing or if you enjoy a more tactile experience without the pronounced sound of a clicky switch. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking rapid responses and an edge in competitive play, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch should be your go-to choice. Its shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, enhancing your gameplay while the low-pitched, thocky sound adds to the immersive gaming atmosphere. Additionally, consider the acoustic and tactile characteristics of the switches: the Dracula offers a more subdued auditory experience which can be preferable for office environments, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a deeper, richer sound profile that enhances your gaming setup. Overall, your selection will depend on whether you value smoothness in general typing or swift actuation for gaming, each switch catering to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
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