Akko Dracula vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and Gazzew LT switches stand out for different reasons, catering to distinct preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Akko Dracula switch, with its innovative POK material and extra stem hole, promises an ultra-smooth typing experience combined with enhanced durability—perfect for those who prioritize longevity and a snappy feel in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switches charm users with their enticing lilac hue and a deep, resonant "thock" sound, offering a unique auditory feedback that many enthusiasts find satisfying and immersive, alongside their seamless glide for comfort during extended use. While both switches serve the linear style preference, they appeal to different facets of user experience: the Dracula excels in smoothness and durability, while the LT shines in auditory feedback and a unique aesthetic. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Akko Dracula and the Gazzew LT switches are both designed to offer unique typing experiences, yet they utilize different materials for their top housing. The Dracula features a POK (polyketone) top housing, which is known for its impressive durability, smooth operation, and slight clacky sound profile contributed by its low coefficient of friction (0.04). In contrast, the Gazzew LT employs a proprietary blend referred to as "boba plastic." While the specific characteristics of this plastic blend may not match POK's durability metrics, it does offer a softer feel that enhances acoustic properties, leading to a rich and deep sound profile. Although both materials aim for smooth keystrokes, the POK material focuses on strength and reduced friction, while the Gazzew blend prioritizes a warmer auditory experience.
In the bottom housing, both switches employ materials that are softer, contributing to a more muted and resonant sound upon bottoming out. The Dracula utilizes nylon, a well-established material known for its sound-dampening qualities and overall softer feel, resulting in a fuller sound profile. Conversely, the Gazzew LT continues to utilize its proprietary blend for the bottom housing, which also emphasizes softness and delivers a similar auditory richness. Therefore, while the materials differ, both switches ultimately achieve comparable results in sound production through their softer bottom housing, enhancing the overall typing experience with a deeper, more resonant feedback.
When considering the interaction between top and bottom housings, the divergence in materials implies that the switches may provide different sensory feedback during use. The POK top of the Dracula enhances the tactile feedback as the switch is pressed down, while also impacting the noise upon release. Meanwhile, the Gazzew LT's top housing will give a contrasting feel but rely on its blend's characteristics to create a distinct auditory experience. Such differences mean that even with a soft bottom housing to mute sound, the overall profiles of these switches will vary due to their top housings. Ultimately, the combined effects of these dual properties create a unique typing feel and sound signature for each switch: the Dracula leans into a robust typing experience, while the Gazzew LT offers a softer and smoother alternative.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula has a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a softer keystroke, allowing for extended typing sessions or long gaming hours without significant fatigue. In contrast, the Gazzew LT linear switch has an unknown actuation force but features a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, suggesting a medium-heavy resistance that may appeal to typists seeking a more substantial feel and feedback in each keystroke. Consequently, those opting for the Gazzew LT can expect a heavier experience overall, while the Akko Dracula caters to those who favor a lighter typing touch. Ultimately, if a user prioritizes a lighter switch, the Akko Dracula will be the better choice, while the Gazzew LT will suit those who enjoy a stiffer actuation.
Travel distance
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is clear that they differ in travel distance, which can significantly influence the typing experience. The Akko Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Gazzew LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This difference may affect responsiveness; gamers might gravitate toward the Gazzew LT for its quicker actuation, whereas those who prefer a more substantial depth and a less abrupt feel might find the Dracula's distance more appealing. In summary, if you desire speed and responsiveness, the Gazzew LT with its shorter travel distance would be preferable. Conversely, if you favor a deeper key press, the Akko Dracula is the more suitable choice.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Dracula switch is known for delivering an ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its innovative design featuring POK material, which contributes to its acoustic profile, although specific sound characteristics such as pitch or resonance are not detailed. In contrast, the Gazzew LT linear switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound—a combination of resonance that produces a bassy, low-pitched auditory experience. The LTs resonate with a satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" upon being pressed and released, creating a gratifying feedback loop for typists. For those seeking auditory satisfaction, the LT offers a more pronounced sound signature compared to the more neutral acoustic qualities of the Dracula.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch features an enhanced smoothness due to its POK material and innovative design, which includes an extra stem hole for improved airflow, contributing to a seamless keystroke experience. Although the subjective qualities of the Dracula's feel are not precisely outlined, one can infer that its design focuses on enhanced durability and fluidity. The Gazzew LT, on the other hand, is acclaimed for its seamless glide with every keystroke, suggesting a very smooth and responsive typing experience. The combined characteristics of these switches may render the Dracula and LT switches comparable, although specifics are unknown for the latter.
In summary, while the Akko Dracula linear switch emphasizes a smooth typing experience through its innovative materials and design, the Gazzew LT switch stands out with an engaging sound profile characterized by deep, thocky acoustics and a very smooth keystroke feel. Although both switches focus on ensuring a pleasant typing experience, they cater to different auditory preferences—one being more subtle and the other rich and resonant. For newcomers, understanding these qualities can help in selecting a switch that aligns with their preferences, but personal testing remains essential to find the perfect fit.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams, the Akko Dracula is an excellent option, especially for extended typing sessions where fatigue may set in. Its use of POK material not only enhances durability but also promotes an ultra-smooth typing experience, making it an ideal choice for typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial keystroke and appreciate a deeper, richer sound profile, the Gazzew LT linear switch with its 65 grams of bottom-out force might be the right fit for you. Known for its bassy and thocky sound, this switch offers a more tactile auditory feedback that many find satisfying, particularly for gaming or those seeking a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value a lighter, smoother switch or a heavier, more resonant feel under your fingers.
Mentioned in this article
