Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Ink Black V2 stand out as two popular options among enthusiasts, both offering a smooth linear typing experience but featuring distinct characteristics that may appeal to different users. The Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its POK material construction, which contributes to its durability and highly smooth feel, enhanced by an innovative design that includes an extra stem hole for improved airflow. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a beloved classic in the community, known for its satisfying downstroke and a rich, resonant clack that adds a layer of auditory feedback to each keystroke. While the Dracula is ideal for those prioritizing longevity and a silky typing experience, the Ink Black V2 may be the preferred choice for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback in their typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Akko Dracula and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches both utilize distinct housing materials that impart unique acoustic and tactile characteristics to each switch. The Akko Dracula features a top housing made of POK (polyketone), which stands out for its exceptional smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, slightly higher than Gateron's INK blend at 0.03, the POK material ensures a notably fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, POK's outstanding wear and shock resistance solidify its place as a premium material for switch manufacturing, contributing to the smooth, clacky feel that many enthusiasts seek in a mechanical keyboard. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 also offers a clacky sound profile but is characterized by its proprietary INK blend which, while high-pitched and exciting, may resonate slightly differently due to the materials used.
The bottom housing of each switch also reveals distinct material choices that further shape the overall sound profile. The Akko Dracula uses nylon, known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic output that naturally contrasts with the sharpness of the POK top. This design results in a switch that produces rich, rounded tones, effectively merging a satisfying typing experience with acoustic depth. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Black V2's bottom housing, also made from the proprietary INK blend, leans towards a high-pitched and satisfying sound, echoing its top housing's characteristics. Both switches aim for a clacky sound, yet the composition of their respective bottom housings offers different auditory experiences.
While both switch designs embody a unique blend of materials, it's essential to recognize how these choices influence the overall performance of each switch. Since the top and bottom housings each contribute differently to the keystroke experience, the Akko Dracula's POK top housing enhances the sound when the key is released, while its nylon bottom adds warmth and depth to the bottoming-out sound. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2's INK blend materials in both top and bottom produce a more cohesive clacky and high-pitched sound profile that is equally satisfying. Ultimately, users can achieve similar acoustic qualities but will experience distinct typing sensations due to the divergence in material choices and their respective impacts on sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Dracula switch features an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option that is well-suited for extended typing sessions and gaming, as the lower resistance can help reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 has a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This makes the Ink Black V2 ideal for users who enjoy the tactile feedback of a heavier switch. Overall, the Akko Dracula linear switch is the lighter choice, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 is the heavier switch, catering to different preferences in typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the differences are notable. The Akko Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. This establishes the Dracula as the shorter option, ideal for users who favor quicker responsiveness in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke feel, providing a sense of depth that some users might find more satisfying. Thus, if you prioritize speed and quick actuation, the Akko Dracula is the better choice, while those who prefer a more hearty depth should opt for the Gateron Ink Black V2.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 characterized by a relatively unspecified acoustic profile, leaving its auditory qualities open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 features a low-pitched and bassy tone, making it a switch that delivers a deeper and richer sound during use. The Ink Black V2 also exhibits a chirpy quality, adding a subtle squeak that can contribute to its distinctive sound signature. Therefore, while both switches offer notable auditory experiences, the Dracula's sound profile remains ambiguous compared to the more well-defined tonal characteristics of the Ink Black V2, which leans towards a warmer, bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch is also described without specific details, leaving its tactile or tactile-less characteristics somewhat unclear. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 is noted for its mild and polished sensation, which ensures a gentle and smooth typing experience. The mild characteristics make it approachable for all types of users, while the polished finish suggests careful crafting, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. As such, the Ink Black V2 likely provides a more defined and refined feeling during typing compared to the uncertain qualities of the Dracula switch.
In conclusion, while both the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience, they convey quite different characteristics. The Ink Black V2 impresses with its low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound, alongside a mild yet polished feel that ensures smooth operation. In contrast, the Dracula lacks specific details regarding its sound and feel, making it more challenging to compare directly. Prospective users looking for an enhanced auditory experience with a tactile yet smooth feel may gravitate towards the Ink Black V2, while the Dracula may appeal to those who are curious about its unspecified qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch should primarily hinge on your personal preferences in typing feel, sound profile, and the type of experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Akko Dracula is ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming, offering an ultra-smooth experience with enhanced durability thanks to its unique POK material. Its design, featuring an extra stem hole, promotes better airflow and smoothness, making it a great choice if you prioritize comfort and responsiveness in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and robust typing experience, the Gateron Ink Black V2's medium-heavy 70-gram bottom-out force provides a more deliberate feel that can improve precision while typing. The low-pitched, bassy sound combined with its mild, polished feel gives a distinct acoustic and tactile enjoyment, making it a favorite among many in the community for its balance of performance and feedback. Ultimately, your decision comes down to whether you value a lighter, smoother action or a more substantial, rich sound and feel in your typing experience.
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