Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between numerous options that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top case and stem, which provides an ultra-smooth typing experience and remarkable durability. Its design also features an extra stem hole that enhances airflow and further contributes to its smoothness during use. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches offer a beautifully translucent aesthetic paired with a lighter typing feel, resulting in a unique, high-pitched clack that many users enjoy. The Ink Box Pink is often appreciated for its silky texture and polished finish, making it appealing for those who favor a responsive and slightly louder typing experience. While both switches are linear and designed to provide smooth keystrokes, their distinct characteristics create unique experiences for users. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, we observe distinct differences in their formulations and resultant sound profiles. The Akko Dracula's top housing utilizes POK material, a durable and smooth material that exhibits a very low coefficient of friction. This characteristic contributes to a clacky auditory feedback when pressed, thanks to its strength and wear resistance. In contrast, Gateron’s Ink Box Pink employs a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. While the acoustics are praised for a satisfying, thin, and higher-pitched sound, the INK blend does not boast the same durability metrics as POK. However, both switches aim to deliver clacky sounds, highlighting a shared design intention, albeit utilizing different materials to reach that end.
Examining the bottom housing, the differences become even more pronounced. The Akko Dracula features nylon, which is known for its ability to absorb sound well, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. This softer material enriches the sound profile, resulting in a rounder tone, likely contributing to a contrasting auditory experience compared to the Gateron Ink Box Pink. On the other hand, Gateron's bottom housing also employs the proprietary INK blend, echoing a sound profile similar to the top housing, characterized as pointed and clacky. Therefore, while both switches aim for a clacky sound, the Dracula’s nylon bottom provides a deeper note, whereas Gateron's INK blend retains the higher pitch throughout the switch.
Ultimately, it is evident that the differing materials significantly influence how each switch feels and sounds. The combination of POK for the top and nylon for the bottom in the Dracula offers a rich, full sound while retaining smooth operation, juxtaposed with the more uniform tonal quality of the Ink Box Pink’s INK blend in both housings. As a result, although both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, they achieve it through different methodologies: the Dracula’s configuration is set to provide a more nuanced sound profile, while the Ink Box Pink maintains consistency across its material choices. Users seeking a particular auditory feedback would benefit from experimenting with both, as each experience offers unique qualities derived from its housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel. Therefore, while both switches provide quality performance, the Akko Dracula is lighter and may lead to less fatigue over extended use, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink is heavier, catering to users seeking more resistance.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Dracula switch provides a more pronounced keystroke, which can offer a sense of depth that some typists and gamers may prefer for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink may appeal to those seeking faster response times, making it a game-friendly option. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Ink Box Pink could be the better choice, while the Dracula switch caters to users who enjoy a more substantial key press.
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 Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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 remains somewhat elusive, as specific auditory characteristics are not provided. However, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for producing a distinctly clacky and high-pitched tone. This sharp and crisp sound makes it particularly pleasing for users who enjoy a bright auditory feedback while typing. The Ink Box Pink's higher frequency sound can contrast with the deeper profiles of other switches, catering to those who prefer a more energetic and lively typing experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps used, so results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch embraces an ultra-smooth typing experience bolstered by its innovative POK material construction and enhanced airflow design. This switch is engineered for smoothness and durability, aiming to provide a seamless transition during keystrokes. Conversely, the Ink Box Pink switch is characterized by its silky and polished feel, allowing for reduced friction and a more refined typing experience. Both switches seem to excel in providing a smooth typing experience, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying tactile response with minimal resistance regardless of which switch is chosen.
Overall, while the Akko Dracula switch offers durability and a smooth experience through its unique design features, the Gateron Ink Box Pink stands out with its striking sound profile and silky feel. Both switches appear to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, though they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. If you value a lively audio experience, the Ink Box Pinks might be your go-to, while the Draculas could appeal more to users prioritizing smoothness and enhanced durability. Ultimately, you'll likely find satisfaction in either option, depending on your specific typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a lighter feel with an ultra-smooth typing experience, the Akko Dracula could be the ideal fit for you. Its innovative design, which includes POK material and an extra stem hole for improved airflow, ensures durability and smoothness that many users appreciate. This switch could be particularly appealing if you type quickly or spend long hours at your keyboard without wanting to exert much force—making it perfect for gaming or office use where speed is crucial.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier keystroke with a satisfying clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be a more suitable choice. With a bottom-out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium resistance that provides a nice tactile feedback, which many find satisfying during prolonged typing sessions. The high-pitched and crisp audio profile of the Ink Box Pink also adds an enjoyable auditory element, making it a great candidate for those who appreciate the sounds of their keystrokes while typing or gaming. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages, so consider what aspects—whether it's the lightness and smoothness of the Dracula or the weight and auditory feedback of the Ink Box Pink—are most important to you in creating your perfect typing experience.
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