Akko Dracula vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and Keygeek Keylin linear switches present unique options that cater to different preferences. The Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its innovative use of POK material in its construction, which not only enhances durability but also contributes to an ultra-smooth typing experience. Its design features an additional stem hole that improves airflow and further elevates the smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who value a seamless keystroke. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch stands out due to its state-of-the-art molds, which offer a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. For typists seeking a satisfying auditory feedback along with smooth performance, the Keylin may be the ideal pick. Both switches cater to enthusiasts aiming for high-quality experiences, but the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and Keygeek Keylin switches, it is essential to note that both models utilize nylon for their bottom housing, ensuring a deep and full sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound vibrations, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory experience. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for typing, as it provides a comfortable and pleasant acoustical environment. In this respect, both switches promise similar acoustic performance in terms of the way the bottom housing contributes to the overall feel and sound, given that they share the same nylon composition.
However, a significant contrast arises in the top housing materials of the two switches. The Akko Dracula boasts a POK (polyketone) material in its top housing, which presents a lower coefficient of friction than its counterpart in the Keygeek Keylin. With a coefficient of 0.04 compared to nylon's 0.03, the POK material offers an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. Additionally, the durability of POK surpasses that of nylon, illustrating its strength and wear resistance. This difference in top housing materials means that while both switches provide robust sound production due to their nylon bottoms, the Dracula is likely to deliver a smoother and more resilient typing experience, thanks to its superior top housing material.
Ultimately, the varying materials impact the overall feel and sound during typing. The contrast of the smoothness attributes from the POK material of the Dracula's top housing and the deeper, sound-absorbing qualities of the nylon bottom housing could potentially create a more versatile typing experience when compared to the Keygeek Keylin, which features a uniform nylon construction for both the top and bottom. While both switches will likely succeed in creating a delectable auditory atmosphere due to their shared bottom housing materials, the differentiation in the top housing will lead to distinct tactile sensations – with the Dracula possibly fostering a more tactile and fluid experience due to its advantage in material choice.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, we find that both switches exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but the Keylin is slightly heavier overall. The Akko Dracula has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Keylin features a 38-gram actuation force and a 48-gram bottom out force. This makes the Dracula the lighter option, which could be advantageous for users who favor less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Keylin provides a marginally stronger tactile response and more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push. Despite these differences, both switches maintain a relatively lightweight profile, making them suitable for users who enjoy a gentle touch without excessive resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, it’s clear that the Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Keylin features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Dracula switch provides a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to users seeking a more pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, the Keylin's slightly shorter travel distance may be more attractive to gamers or individuals looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster activation of the switch. Hence, if you're focused on speed, the Keylin could be the better choice, while those preferring a deeper key press might want to opt for the 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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
The Akko Dracula linear switch produces a sound profile characterized by a subtle, muted thock that is indicative of a well-engineered switch. Its construction with POK material contributes to a softer auditory experience, which can appeal to users seeking a more understated typing sound. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switch is known for its rich acoustics, offering a slightly more pronounced thock that resonates distinctly with each keystroke. While both switches exhibit enjoyable sound qualities, the richness of the Keylin may provide a more engaging auditory feedback, though it's important to remember that sound can vary significantly depending on the specific keyboard setup, including the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch shines with its ultra-smooth typing experience, enhanced by the innovative design featuring an extra stem hole that promotes improved airflow. This results in a linear switch that feels fluid and responsive, reducing any friction that might detract from the typing experience. Similarly, the Keygeek Keylin switch prides itself on exceptional smoothness, thanks in part to new molds that elevate the overall tactile experience. Both switches share a commitment to providing a seamless, enjoyable typing experience, and users can expect a premium feel from either choice.
In summary, the Akko Dracula and Keygeek Keylin linear switches each offer distinct qualities that will appeal to different preferences. The Dracula is ideal for users who favor a muted sound profile combined with a smooth typing experience, while the Keylin offers richer acoustics and a similarly fluid feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to the desire for a premium linear typing experience, and selecting between them will come down to personal preference in sound and subtle feel variations. Though they are not identical, the main qualities that define their performance elevate the experience and satisfaction of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing style and aesthetic preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch for faster typing and want an exceptionally smooth experience, the Akko Dracula, with its 45-gram bottom-out force, is likely the better choice. Its innovative POK material construction not only enhances durability but also contributes to a unique airflow design that ensures a smoother keypress. This switch is particularly appealing if you seek a quiet and pleasant typing experience without heavy tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you're inclined towards a slightly heavier feel while still enjoying an enjoyable typing experience, the Keylin's 48-gram bottom-out force may suit you better. Keygeek's focus on rich acoustics and premium smoothness means you can expect an engaging auditory feedback as you type, making it ideal for users who appreciate sound characteristics in their keyboard. Consider what aspects are most important to you—lightness and smoothness with the Dracula or the acoustics and slightly heavier tactile feedback with the Keylin—and let that guide your ultimate choice.
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