Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Glory Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Glory Yellow stand out among linear options, each offering unique features suited for different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula is renowned for its POK material used in both the top case and stem, resulting in an ultra-smooth typing experience accompanied by enhanced durability. Additionally, its innovative design introduces an extra stem hole for improved airflow, promoting an even more fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches cater to those who prefer a heavier feel, providing a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance that enhances overall typing satisfaction. While the Dracula excels in durability and smoothness, the Glory Yellow appeals to users seeking a more substantial response in their keystrokes. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
50g
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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow, one of the most significant distinctions lies in the top housing material. The Dracula uses POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which boasts a lower coefficient of friction (0.04) compared to the nylon top housing of the Glory Yellow (0.03). This characteristic makes the POK material smoother, contributing to a clacky typing experience along with enhanced durability—14 times stronger than POM and 2.3 times stronger regarding shock resistance when compared to Nylon. In contrast, the Glory Yellow's use of nylon for the top housing results in a quieter key release sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound, presenting a softer typing experience overall.
In the context of the bottom housing, both the Akko Dracula and Gateron Glory Yellow utilize nylon, a classic choice known for its sound-absorbing properties. This commonality implies that despite their differing top materials, both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the key characteristics, such as sound and feel upon bottoming out, remain similar for both switches. Consequently, while the top housing impart distinct tactile experiences and sound qualities, the shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes their acoustic signature and overall feel, providing a deeper typing experience.
Ultimately, while the Akko Dracula and Gateron Glory Yellow showcase contrasting top housing materials with differing impacts on performance, they converge in their shared nylon bottom housing. This combination highlights how even when materials vary in terms of texture and sound properties, the result can still align in providing satisfying typing feedback. When pressed, the feel and acoustic output will inherit the nuances of the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a fuller sound profile regardless of the differences present in the switches’ top materials. As a result, users can expect a combination of distinctive characteristics and familiar nylon warmth in their typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch exhibit notable differences in actuation force, as well as an unclear bottom out force for the latter. The Dracula switch features a light actuation force of 35 grams, making it suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as it requires less effort to activate each key. In contrast, the Glory Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, the Dracula's bottom out force is 45 grams, indicating it also has a lighter feel in terms of total key travel. Ultimately, if you seek a lighter switch for comfortable, prolonged use, the Akko Dracula is the ideal choice, whereas the Gateron Glory Yellow's heavier actuation force may cater better to users who appreciate a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, there is a slight difference to note. The Akko Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Glory Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Akko Dracula the shorter option and the Glory Yellow the longer. For gamers and those seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Dracula may be more appealing, providing quicker actuation. Conversely, the Glory Yellow, with its longer travel distance, may be preferred by individuals who appreciate a deeper press, as it offers a more pronounced tactile experience. Thus, while both switches can deliver satisfying keystrokes, your choice will ultimately depend on your preference for responsiveness versus depth in keystroke travel.
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 Yellow 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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Dracula switch is designed to offer a pleasantly muted acoustic profile due to its POK material construction, which tends to dampen sound and create a more subtle typing experience. This can make it less intrusive in quiet environments, appealing to those seeking a soft auditory presence while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch emphasizes a more balanced sound with a satisfying auditory feedback that some typists might find a bit more pronounced and engaging. However, it's important to remember that the sound produced by either switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch promises an ultra-smooth typing experience enhanced by its innovative design, which includes an extra stem hole, allowing for improved airflow and reduced friction. This results in a fluid keystroke that many users may find highly comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch offers a heavier feel, delivering a confident keystroke thanks to its pleasing travel distance. This can provide a more deliberate typing experience, which some typists prefer as it allows for a tactile affirmation of each keystroke without becoming overly tiring.
Overall, both the Akko Dracula and Gateron Glory Yellow switches provide distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Dracula's muted sound profile and ultra-smooth typing may appeal to users looking for a refined experience, the Glory Yellow's balanced sound and heavier keystroke can attract those who appreciate more feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on personal preference and typing style; both switches are capable of providing a satisfying experience based on their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a lighter keypress with a bottom out force of 45 grams, and are seeking a switch that provides an ultra-smooth typing experience with enhanced durability due to its POK material construction, then the Akko Dracula switch could be the perfect match for you. Its innovative design and extra stem hole contribute to a comfortable and responsive feel that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier feel and a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch may be more suited to your typing style. While the Glory Yellow offers a more substantial experience, its specific sound profile may appeal to those who appreciate a different acoustic vibe during their typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in a switch, whether that’s a light touch and smoothness or a firmer feel with an enjoyable keystroke.
Mentioned in this article
