Akko Dracula vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the TTC Gold Brown present two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Akko Dracula switch is renowned for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to its innovative POK material and extra stem hole design, which enhances airflow and durability. This linear switch is ideal for those who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke and swift key presses, making it an excellent choice for gamers or typists seeking a seamless performance. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown offers a more tactile experience with its balanced design, providing a satisfying bump during each keystroke. This tactile feedback, combined with a moderate weightiness and rounded sound profile, makes the Gold Brown an appealing option for users who enjoy a bit more responsiveness while typing and are looking for a softer acoustic 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the TTC Gold Brown switches, a significant distinction arises in the choice of top housing materials. The Akko Dracula utilizes polyketone (POK) for its top housing, a material celebrated for its smoothness, durability, and friction properties. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK offers a slightly slicker feel than the polycarbonate used in the Gold Brown, which enhances acoustics and delivers a sharper sound profile. While polycarbonate can create a clear and crisp sound due to its stiffer nature, it does not match the robust wear resistance and shock absorption capabilities found in POK, which is superior to both Nylon and POM. Therefore, the distinct acoustic characteristics derived from the materials lead to different auditory experiences when typing.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a similar auditory quality. Nylon's intrinsic properties as a softer plastic contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively damping vibrations and generating a warm and rounded acoustic experience. This shared use of nylon implies that, regardless of the differing top housings, users will experience a comparable bottom-out sound when typing on either the Akko Dracula or the TTC Gold Brown. The bottom housing's characteristics have a significant impact on the overall feel of the switch and the auditory experience, making this material choice crucial for users who value deeper sound profiles in their key switches.
In conclusion, while the Akko Dracula and TTC Gold Brown switches share a nylon bottom housing that elicits a similar sound profile, their top housing materials yield contrasting experiences. The POK top housing of the Dracula fosters a smoother action and provides superior durability, whereas the polycarbonate top of the Gold Brown contributes to sharper acoustic dynamics, especially with RGB lighting. Despite these differences, users of both switches can expect to enjoy a satisfying typing experience, rooted in the shared qualities of the nylon bottom housing, creating a balanced performance across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula exhibits an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option that is ideal for those who prioritize prolonged typing comfort during long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Thus, while the Dracula switch is better suited for those seeking a lightweight touch, the Gold Brown is tailored for individuals who appreciate firmer resistance. Overall, the stark contrast in their specifications highlights the importance of personal preference when selecting a switch for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Akko Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dracula switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the Gold Brown, with its longer travel distance, could be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, as it provides a greater depth for each keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: for those who appreciate quicker activation, the Akko Dracula is the better option, whereas those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience may gravitate toward the TTC Gold Brown.
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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 considering the sound profile of the Akko Dracula linear switch, the specific details are currently unknown, leaving us with an opportunity to explore its acoustic characteristics further. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch boasts a neutral sound, which is relatively moderate in both actuation force and auditory feedback. This balanced profile makes the Gold Brown versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without being excessively loud.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to the POK material used in its construction, though specific descriptors regarding its tactile characteristics are not available. Comparatively, the TTC Gold Brown switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, marked by a slight tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle. Its buttery smoothness and polished finish create an effortless keystroke that appeals to many users looking for comfort in their typing sessions. The Gold Brown may strike the right balance for those who desire a bit of tactile feedback without compromising on fluidity.
Overall, while the Akko Dracula linear switch prioritizes smoothness and durability with innovative design features, the TTC Gold Brown offers a more tactile and balanced experience that many find appealing. Both switches cater to different user preferences, with the Dracula leaning more toward seamless operation and the Gold Brown providing nuanced feedback. Ultimately, if you prefer a linear typing experience with smooth key travel, the Akko Dracula is a strong choice; conversely, for those who enjoy some tactile sensation combined with balanced acoustics, the TTC Gold Brown is likely to satisfy.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, your personal typing preferences will greatly influence your decision. If you prioritize a lighter touch and an incredibly smooth typing experience, the Akko Dracula is an excellent option. With its low bottom out force of 45 grams and advanced POK material that enhances durability and airflow, it's particularly suitable for long typing sessions without the fatigue that can arise from heavier switches. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more balanced and tactile feel, the TTC Gold Brown should be your go-to choice. With a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, it provides just the right amount of tactile feedback, along with a soft and rounded sound profile that makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. In essence, your decision should hinge on whether you prefer the smoothness and lightness of the Dracula for fast-paced typing, or the tactile satisfaction and moderate resistance of the Gold Brown that caters to a more traditional typing experience.
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