Akko Dracula vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the Durock Ice King Linear present intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Akko Dracula switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material for the top case and stem, delivering ultra-smooth typing alongside enhanced durability, all complemented by an extra stem hole that improves airflow and smoothness. This makes it a compelling choice for those who prioritize a robust yet fluid typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear, with its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, offers a silky smooth and frictionless experience characterized by a subdued and creamy feedback. This switch may appeal to users who prefer a polished typing experience that effortlessly glides under their fingers. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Akko Dracula and the Durock Ice King Linear switches are designed with distinct housing materials that influence their sound, durability, and overall performance. The Dracula features a top housing made from polyketone (POK), which is lauded for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, the POK material offers a slicker response compared to traditional materials like nylon. Additionally, it boasts exceptional wear resistance, being 14 times more durable than POM and substantially more shock-resistant than both Nylon and POM. This combination of strength and smoothness provides the Dracula switch a unique feel, contributing to an overall "clacky" typing experience that is both responsive and resilient.
In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear employs nylon for both its top and bottom housing, a material known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer characteristics allow it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic profile that contrasts sharply with the more pronounced and percussive sound of the POK material used in the Dracula. In this regard, the Ice King Linear aligns with traditional acoustics, providing a deeper bottom-out sound that many users appreciate for its richness and warmth. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, meaning that they share similar sound and feel characteristics in this respect, fostering a familiar typing experience across different linear switches.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two switches become pronounced when considering their respective performance characteristics. While the top housing of the Dracula offers a blend of smoothness and durability that enhances its tactile feedback, the Ice King Linear's uniform use of nylon creates a cohesive sound profile throughout the switch. However, both switch designs ensure that the bottom housing directly influences the bottom-out feel, with nylon creating a consistent auditory experience in both switches. Even though the sound profiles differ due to the materials used, users can expect a rich typing experience overall, with each switch catering to unique preferences and tactile sensations.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial push that some users may find preferable for tactile feedback. This means that users of the Ice King Linear may experience a firmer sensation when typing, which could enhance their overall typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger pressure in their switches. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Akko Dracula is the way to go, while the Durock Ice King caters to those who appreciate a heavier feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, a noticeable difference arises. The Akko Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear features a somewhat shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Dracula's travel distance is slightly longer than that of the Ice King, catering to users who may prefer a more substantial tactile experience when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Ice King is more aligned with a growing trend among gamers who favor quicker response times. Therefore, while both switches offer distinct advantages depending on user preferences, the Akko Dracula is the longer option, and the Durock Ice King Linear is the shorter one. If a more responsive feel is desired, the Ice King would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a deeper keystroke might lean 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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 somewhat of an enigma, as specific descriptions were not provided. However, it’s important to note that sound can vary based on multiple factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is characterized by its subdued sound profile. It produces a dampened sound with each keystroke that doesn’t translate to complete silence but provides a more understated auditory experience compared to many other switches on the market. This makes the Ice King suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing environment while still retaining a slight acoustic feedback.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the Akko Dracula also lacks detailed descriptors, leaving us in the dark on its precise qualities. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch is renowned for its silky smoothness and an overall frictionless experience. Users can expect a creamy sensation with each keystroke, akin to gliding effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the Ice King’s polished finish further enhances this refined feel, allowing for fluid travel without resistance. The characteristics of smoothness and minimal friction in the Ice King offer a delightful typing experience, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts.
In conclusion, while the Akko Dracula switch presents a level of mystery with undetermined sound and feel qualities, the Durock Ice King Linear is clearly celebrated for its subdued sound and a remarkably smooth typing experience. If you're leaning towards either switch, it's essential to consider personal preferences in sound and tactile feedback. Although we can't draw direct comparisons for the Dracula, the Ice King exemplifies what many would consider an exceptional typing experience, showcasing the importance of both sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock Ice King linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a smoother typing experience with enhanced durability, the Akko Dracula switch might be the way to go. Its innovative POK material construction ensures you feel less resistance and experience a swift keystroke with every press, making it excellent for prolonged typing or gaming sessions where fast responses are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium resistance and would appreciate a switch that offers a silky, frictionless feel, the Durock Ice King is a fantastic choice. It boasts a full nylon construction with generous factory lubrication, delivering a “creamy” and polished typing experience that feels both luxurious and responsive. Additionally, if sound is a consideration, the Ice King’s subdued acoustics provide a quieter typing experience compared to the Dracula’s potentially more pronounced sound. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and aligning your choice with your typing style will help you maximize your keyboard's performance.
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