Akko Dracula vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and HMX Lotus (Heavy) present two compelling options for those seeking a linear typing experience. The Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its use of POK material, which not only ensures ultra-smooth typing but also enhances durability, thanks to its innovative design that features an extra stem hole for improved airflow and smoothness. This makes the Dracula a great choice for typists looking for a sleek and responsive feel with longevity in mind. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch stands out with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which provides a satisfying level of resistance. The bright, resonant sound coupled with a super bouncy sensation makes the Lotus an appealing option for those who enjoy a more tactile and lively keystroke. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their distinct attributes create different experiences that may suit various typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
POM
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), one notable difference emerges in their top housings. The Akko Dracula utilizes POK material, which is specifically engineered for superior smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it offers a notably smooth actuation compared to the nylon top housing found in the HMX Lotus (Heavy), which lacks the same degree of slickness, measuring at 0.03. POK’s formidable wear resistance—14 times stronger than POM—and enhanced shock absorption compared to nylon imply that the Dracula will likely have a more consistent performance over prolonged usage. While the nylon in the Lotus provides a softer and deeper sound profile, its properties may not match the tactile feedback offered by POK, potentially resulting in a different typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing, however, the comparison reveals a striking similarity between the two switches. Both the Dracula and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which is celebrated for its capability to produce a rich and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more absorbent characteristics. As a result, whether typing on the Draco or the Lotus (Heavy), users will experience a commendable level of sound dampening and a consistent bottom-out feel, attributable to the inherent qualities of nylon. This shared material ensures that the switches will deliver a satisfying auditory experience, creating a warm and rounded sound that many enthusiasts appreciate.
Despite the differences in their top housings, the end result may not diverge significantly in terms of overall performance, as the bottom housing has a major influence on bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the Akko Dracula's POK material could lead to a unique tactile feedback experience that might dominate the overall typing feel while releasing sound contrasts thanks to the nylon bottom housing. Meanwhile, the Lotus (Heavy) would still deliver a rich sound experience attributable to its completely nylon composition, which seamlessly integrates the dampening properties of the bottom housing into its character. Ultimately, users can expect switches from both models to provide distinct percussive experiences, defined largely by their top housing materials while still sharing a common auditory benefit from the nylon bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Dracula exhibits a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or intense gaming, allowing for faster and less strenuous keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing feel and are comfortable with a stronger push against the keys. These differences imply that the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier choice, providing distinct tactile experiences for various user preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Dracula offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Lotus, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback as they type or game. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus may provide gamers with a quicker response time, aligning with the modern preference for more responsive switches. Ultimately, if you favor a more profound keypress, the Akko Dracula would be the more suitable choice, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) could cater better to those seeking speed and agility in their keystrokes.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 linear switch offers a distinctive auditory experience, characterized by a muted yet refined tone, which can help create a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch produces a bright, resonant sound, adding an engaging auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. The differences in sound can lead to notable contrasts in how each switch interacts with your surroundings, so choosing between them will largely depend on whether you prefer a more subdued sound or a lively click that resonates with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch impresses with its ultra-smooth typing experience, attributed to the POK material and innovative design that ensures a seamless transition during key presses. This results in a very enjoyable typing sensation without any unnecessary friction. Meanwhile, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch delivers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a super bouncy feel that makes each keystroke feel lively and responsive. The combination of weight and bounce gives more tactile feedback, promoting a satisfying typing rhythm that many typists find delightful.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Dracula emphasizes smoothness and a quieter sound, the Lotus switch stands out for its weight and brighter auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a slick, muted typing experience or a more tactile, resonant one. Either way, both switches can deliver excellent performance, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you tend to favor a lighter touch and seek ultra-smooth typing with enhanced durability, the Dracula may be your ideal option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force and innovative POK material contribute to a comfortable and responsive experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy long typing sessions or gaming marathons without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and enjoy a pronounced tactile response, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) would be a better fit. The medium-heavy weight of 62.5 grams provides a satisfying resistance that many typists find appealing, while its bright, resonant sound adds character to your keystrokes. Ultimately, whether you're looking for a lightweight and smooth experience with the Dracula or a bouncy and robust sensation with the Lotus (Heavy), each switch offers unique benefits that cater to different typing preferences.
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