Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and Gateron Luciola each offer their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko Dracula, recognized for its innovative use of POK material in the top case and stem, provides an ultra-smooth typing experience while ensuring durability. Its design includes an extra stem hole, allowing for improved airflow and enhanced smoothness, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a seamless keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola stands out not only for its aesthetic appeal—glowing in the dark—but also for its medium heft and a typing feel that many describe as smooth and bouncy. Its distinctive sound profile, reminiscent of a hollow can of spray paint being shaken, adds a unique auditory element to the typing experience. While both switches fall under the linear category, they cater to different tactile and auditory preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Luciola switches, we can observe significant differences that influence the overall performance and sound profile of each switch. The Dracula leverages POK material for its top housing, noted for its low coefficient of friction (0.04) and exceptional durability, making it suitable for smooth and resilient key presses. With wear resistance 14 times greater than POM and substantial shock resistance compared to nylon, the POK material helps create a switch that is not only smooth but also long-lasting. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola utilizes their proprietary INK blend for its top housing. While specific properties of the INK blend aren't as explicitly defined as those of POK, the sound profile is highlighted, making it known for producing a higher-pitched, clacky sound, which can provide a different tactile experience.
The bottom housings of both switches reflect a contrasting approach to sound quality—while the Dracula opts for nylon, a classic material known for its softer characteristics that absorb sound and produce a deeper profile, the Luciola also uses the proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. This results in a consistent high-pitched, clacky sound across both switch halves for the Luciola. The choice of nylon in the Dracula's bottom housing allows for a rounder, fuller auditory feedback when typing, as its softness contributes to the reduced resonance and supporting a different tactile experience. Comparatively, both switches aim for distinct auditory experiences, yet the Dracula’s combination of POK and nylon emphasizes a fuller sound profile paired with smooth key presses, while the Luciola achieves prominence through its focused, sharp high-frequency sound.
Despite these differences in materials and their implications for sound profiles and tactile feedback, enthusiasts may find that both the Akko Dracula and Gateron Luciola can produce a satisfying typing experience. If both switches were designed to accommodate similar specifications regarding spring mechanics and actuation force, users might encounter similar performance in terms of responsiveness and typing feel, albeit characterized by different auditory feedback. Ultimately, the distinct sound profiles and tactile responses created by their various materials will cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard users, showcasing the importance of housing material in switch design and functionality.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch exhibit distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces, which cater to varied user preferences. The Dracula switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without causing much fatigue. In contrast, the Luciola switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial, tactile typing experience. Consequently, users looking for a lighter feel may find the Akko Dracula to be the better choice, while those seeking more resistance and a stronger keypress might gravitate toward the Gateron Luciola. Overall, these differences illustrate how the actuation and bottom out forces influence the overall typing experience, catering to diverse user preferences and ergonomic needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, the Dracula offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Luciola has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Dracula switch provides a deeper key press experience, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel, while the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Luciola may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. Those who enjoy more responsiveness in their typing or gaming may find the Luciola to be more suitable, whereas users who appreciate a more substantial key press might lean towards the Dracula due to its greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding the feel and responsiveness of the switches.
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 Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko Dracula linear switch to the Gateron Luciola linear switch, significant differences emerge. The Akko Dracula's sound characteristics are not specified, leaving an unknown aspect of its auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola delights users with a variety of intriguing descriptors. Notably, it offers a clacky sound that resonates with a sharp and snappy quality, evoking a crisp and bright auditory signature. Additionally, the Luciola features chirpy elements, introducing a unique squeak, while its marbly resonance provides a high-pitched, clean sound reminiscent of billiard balls colliding. This rich variety in the Luciola’s auditory experience could appeal to users who prioritize sound as a key factor in their typing experience.
In terms of tactile feel, the differences between the two switches are also pronounced. The Akko Dracula's feel is not provided, leaving its tactile characteristics open to interpretation. The Gateron Luciola, however, is described as offering a medium heft and a smooth yet bouncy feel, which heightens the typing experience. It combines snappiness, with responsive keystrokes due to potentially longer springs, providing a lively interaction. Additionally, the buttery quality gives the feeling of a seamless and fluid keystroke, while the polished finish indicates reduced friction for a sleek typing interaction. This refined combination of sensations ensures a pleasurable and energetic typing experience for users of the Luciola.
In conclusion, while the Akko Dracula linear switch has a design that promotes ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability through its innovative materials, its sound and feel remain unspecified. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola delivers an exciting auditory experience marked by its clacky, chirpy, and marbly tones, paired with a snappy, buttery, and polished tactile feel. If you appreciate smoothness and durability, the Dracula may suit your needs, while the Luciola stands out for those who value an engaging sound profile and tactile responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice will come down to what qualities you prioritize in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers ultra-smooth typing with enhanced durability for prolonged use, the Akko Dracula may be the right choice for you. Its thoughtful design ensures a seamless feel, making it great for both typing and gaming, especially if you appreciate a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a medium weight that gives you a bit more resistance while typing, the Gateron Luciola might be your go-to. With its engaging sound profile that features a unique mix of clacky and chirpy tones, it's perfect for those who like a livelier typing experience. Additionally, the cool glow-in-the-dark feature enhances the aesthetic appeal, making it a fun option for late-night sessions. Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether you value a soft, smooth touch or a lively, responsive feedback in your mechanical keyboard.
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