Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and Gateron Glory Red stand out as two compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Akko Dracula switch is distinguished by its innovative use of POK material in the top case and stem, which not only enhances durability but also provides an ultra-smooth typing feel. Additionally, its unique design features an extra stem hole that improves airflow and overall smoothness, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize a seamless keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red switch offers a slightly lighter touch, making it an appealing option for typists and gamers who appreciate a satisfying travel distance. Both switches prioritize a smooth keystroke, yet they cater to different preferences in terms of the overall feel and responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
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
POK
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Glory Red switches, the most striking difference lies in the top housing composition. The Dracula features a polyketone (POK) top housing, which is recognized for its exceptionally smooth operation due to its low coefficient of friction (0.04) and outstanding durability. In contrast, the Glory Red employs nylon for its top housing, a classic material known for creating a fuller sound profile, albeit with different tactile characteristics. While the POK material promotes a smooth, clacky feel, the nylon offers a softer typing experience with a more muted, deeper sound. This distinction suggests that users seeking a very responsive and slightly louder keystroke might prefer the POK top housing of the Dracula, while those desiring a richer auditory experience could gravitate toward the nylon top found on the Glory Red.
In contrast, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, establishing a notable similarity that leads to an aligned sound profile. The nylon contributes to a softer and rounder sound, effectively absorbing sound waves and enhancing the acoustic experience when key strokes are registered. This shared choice of material ensures a consistency in sound quality when bottoming out, as both switches will produce that deeper, fuller sound characteristic of nylon. This similarity underscores that, despite variations in the top housing, the overall auditory feedback during effortful key presses remains rich and satisfying in both switches.
Ultimately, while the materials used for the top housings of the Akko Dracula and Gateron Glory Red differ, they converge at the bottom housing where nylon reigns supreme. This duality—in which a smooth, resilient key press from the Dracula contrasts with the muted yet rich feedback from the Glory Red—provides enthusiasts with options tailored to their specific preferences. Users will experience the impact of the material differences according to their typing style and sound preference: the Dracula's POK housing is likely to appeal to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, whereas the nylon housing in both models assures a consistent and enjoyable auditory experience, allowing for a balanced typing feel regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience that minimizes fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Red operates with a higher actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting a heavier touch that may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Notably, the bottom out force for the Glory Red switch is unspecified, leaving an unknown aspect that may affect typing dynamics. Overall, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option between the two, likely making it better for prolonged sessions, while the Gateron Glory Red caters to users desiring a firmer response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, we find that the Dracula offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Glory Red has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Dracula switch provides a deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Glory Red switch can lead to quicker actuation, making it a potentially better choice for gamers seeking faster response times. Therefore, if you value a more responsive feel, the Gateron Glory Red would be the way to go, while those who appreciate a more substantial depth might gravitate towards the Akko Dracula.
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 Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 is generally noted for its muted and subdued audio profile, which contributes to a more quiet typing experience, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red switch is characterized by a slightly more pronounced but still soft sound, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud. Both switches can produce a similarly pleasant sound with the right keycaps and keyboard construction, allowing for a clean and refined acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch excels in delivering an ultra-smooth typing experience due to its POK material and innovative design features. This switch’s extra stem hole promotes a noticeable sense of fluidity, enhancing the actuation process and overall responsiveness. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Red switch is designed to provide a smooth keystroke with a comfortable travel distance, making it an enjoyable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. While the two switches may diverge in the nuances of tactile feedback, both offer smooth performance, so users seeking a similar sensation will find satisfaction in either option.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and Gateron Glory Red linear switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The Dracula is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience with enhanced smoothness, while the Glory Red appeals to those who enjoy a softer but still engaging keystroke. Ultimately, personal preferences regarding sound level and tactile response will guide a newcomer in choosing between these two excellent options. Whichever switch you select, both are engineered to provide enjoyable typing experiences, showcasing the advances in mechanical switch technology.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, consider what aspects of typing experience are most important to you. If you prefer a lighter touch and want a switch that combines smoothness with durability, the Akko Dracula may be the better choice for you, especially thanks to its unique POK material and additional stem hole for enhanced airflow. This makes it an excellent option for those who type frequently and are looking for a reliable option for everyday use. Conversely, if you savor an overall smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance, the Gateron Glory Red switch might be more appealing. While its exact bottom-out force is unknown, its position as the lighter switch in the Glory lineup suggests a focus on ease of actuation which can enhance your gaming or typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize durability and enhanced features with the Akko Dracula or a simple, enjoyable action with the Gateron Glory Red; both will provide a satisfying linear switching experience.
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