Akko Dracula vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preferences in feel, sound, and durability. The Akko Dracula switch is notable for its innovative use of POK material in both the top case and stem, which not only enhances the smoothness of each keystroke but also increases the switch's overall longevity. With its unique design featuring an extra stem hole that promotes improved airflow, the Dracula offers an exceptional typing experience that many users find desirable for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch is celebrated for its buttery smooth operation and light-medium resistance, providing a gentle yet gratifying tactile feedback. Its snappy sound profile injects a subtle personality into your setup without becoming overbearing, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more balanced auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, both switches cater to different user preferences: the Akko Dracula stands out for its durability and smoothness, while the TTC Gold Red is favored for its pleasant sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
The Akko Dracula and TTC Gold Red switches utilize different materials for their top housing, presenting both a contrast and a compelling discussion regarding their performance characteristics. The Dracula features a top housing made from polyketone (POK), which is known for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, the POK material offers a significantly smooth typing experience while also boasting impressive strength, being 14 times more wear-resistant than POM. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red employs polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound due to the material's stiffness. This difference in material not only affects the tactile feedback experienced during typing but also contributes to distinct sound profiles—where the POK housing leans toward a clacky sound, the polycarbonate top provides a more resonant and higher-pitched tone, especially suited for RGB lighting aesthetics due to its clarity.
In regards to the bottom housing, both the Akko Dracula and the TTC Gold Red opt for nylon, a classic choice among mechanical switch designs. The nylon used in both switches emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound rather effectively. This similarity means that while the top housings diverge significantly in terms of material and acoustic characteristics, both switches will share a rounded sound at the bottom-out point due to the nylon’s sound-dampening properties. The result is a more cohesive auditory experience when typing, as the common bottom housing material ensures that some aspects of the sound profile remain consistent across both switches.
Ultimately, the distinct combinations of top and bottom housing materials in the Akko Dracula and TTC Gold Red switches highlight the intricacies of sound production and feel in mechanical switches. While the Dracula's POK top promotes a smooth, durable experience alongside a clacking sound, the Gold Red's polycarbonate top enhances clarity and resonance, particularly for RGB use. However, both switches share a common foundational character through their nylon bottom housings, ensuring that the deeper tonal qualities remain a shared experience. Therefore, while the overall performance and sound experience differ between the two switches, certain auditory characteristics will overlap, allowing users to achieve similarly satisfying results in terms of sound profile and feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, we see a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a great choice for those who prefer a keyboard that allows for extended typing sessions with less effort. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red features a heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Despite both switches being categorized as light, the Dracula switch provides an easier keystroke compared to the slightly heftier Gold Red. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences in force feedback, users looking for a lighter and softer feel would gravitate towards the Akko Dracula, whereas those who favor a stronger push would likely prefer the TTC Gold Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is clear that they differ. The Akko Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the shorter option, while the TTC Gold Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer. This difference in travel distance can influence the feel and responsiveness of each switch, appealing to different preferences among users. Gamers might favor the shorter travel distance of the Dracula for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may prefer the deeper feel of the Gold Red. Ultimately, if you seek a swifter experience, the Akko Dracula would be the more suitable choice, whereas for a fuller depth, the TTC Gold Red is likely to be more appealing.
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 Red 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 Red 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 it comes to sound, the Akko Dracula switch is somewhat of an enigma, as its characteristics are not explicitly described. However, it does incorporate innovative materials which could positively influence the sound profile. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red linear switches are characterized by their thocky sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying acoustic response when pressed. This switch delivers a low-pitched tone that brings richness and warmth, creating a robust auditory experience without being excessively loud or distracting. The Gold Red's neutral sound quality makes it suitable for a wide range of environments, appealing to both beginners and experienced users.
In terms of feel, the qualities of the Akko Dracula switch remain unclear, leaving room to wonder how it might compare to other options. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch is well-regarded for its mild and silky typing experience, characterized by gentle key presses and minimal resistance. Its subtle yet polished nature means users can expect smooth key travel and an inviting typing experience that is easy on the fingers. The Gold Red offers a middle-ground typing feel that is approachable for most users, making it versatile for various typing styles and preferences.
In summary, while the sound profile of the Akko Dracula switch remains unspecified, the TTC Gold Red linear switch stands out with its thocky, low-pitched sound and versatile feel, catering to a broad audience. If the Dracula switch were to share similar qualities—smoothness, durability, or a refined design—it could potentially deliver comparable sensory experiences. Ultimately, individuals looking for unique auditory and tactile experiences would be well-served by understanding these differences and considering the TTC Gold Red for a reliably pleasing typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a lighter bottom-out force and are looking for an ultra-smooth typing experience with a focus on durability, the Akko Dracula switch is an excellent choice. Its innovative design and focus on airflow lend themselves well to those who want a seamless typing sensation in quieter settings or when gaming. Conversely, if you appreciate a slightly higher resistance, a thocky sound profile, and a buttery smooth feel, the TTC Gold Red switch could be more aligned with your preferences. Its mild, subtle characteristics make it a versatile option for various environments, striking a balance between smoothness and auditory feedback without being overpowering. In the end, consider your typing style, the sound profile you desire, and the setting in which you primarily use your keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.
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