Akko Dracula vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and Cherry MX Brown offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko Dracula is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to the innovative POK material used in its top case and stem, and features an extra stem hole for improved airflow and enhanced durability—making it an excellent choice for users seeking a fluid and responsive feel without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are synonymous with subtlety, providing a light typing experience that combines gentle tactile feedback with low-pitched, subdued audio cues. This makes them particularly appealing for those who desire a balanced switch that can accommodate both typing and gaming. Ultimately, while the Akko Dracula excels in smoothness, the Cherry MX Brown offers a tactile touch that can enhance your overall typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Brown switches, we can see both similarities and differences that contribute to the typing experience. The Akko Dracula features a top housing made from polyketone (POK), which is known for its low friction coefficient and high durability, being significantly more resilient than other common materials such as POM and nylon. This design choice supports the creation of smooth, clacky, and robust switches, enhancing the tactile feedback during typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown utilizes a classic nylon top housing, which combines softness with a unique sound profile. This choice results in a deeper and rounder auditory experience due to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Thus, while the Akko Dracula’s POK material delivers a smoother and potentially louder typing experience, the MX Brown's nylon top provides a softer and fuller sound that many typists appreciate.
On the subject of bottom housing materials, both the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Brown employ nylon for their bases. Given that nylon is a classic switch housing material, its properties contribute to a consistent typing sound regardless of the switch brand. The inherent softness of nylon helps in dampening sound, resulting in a more subdued and pleasant bottom-out sound. Since both the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Brown adopt nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect similar auditory qualities when bottoming out. Therefore, while the top housing materials differ significantly, the commonality in the bottom housing serves to maintain a coherent sound profile across both switches.
Considering the complete switch assembly, the combination of different housing materials in the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Brown creates a varied yet complementary typing experience. The variances in the top housing influence the sound and feel during key release, while the nylon bottom housing ensures that the bottom-out experience remains consistent and rounded across both products. Users seeking characteristics such as smoothness, durability, and unique sound profiles may find themselves gravitating towards one switch or the other based on their typing preferences. Nonetheless, regardless of the different top housing materials, the similarities in the bottom housings provide a shared foundation for the overall typing experience, allowing different preferences in tactile feedback and sound without compromising on the basic qualities essential for enjoyable use.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch present contrasting profiles when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Dracula switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer less resistance, enhancing comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel that caters to those who enjoy a stronger push during their typing experience. This means that the Dracula switch is easier to press, while the Brown switch requires more effort, making it heavier overall. Consequently, users may find themselves opting for the Akko Dracula for its lightweight nature, while those who favor a firmer feedback might gravitate toward the Cherry MX Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, the Dracula stands out with a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the MX Brown features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Akko Dracula the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown, with its traditional 4 mm travel, offers a deeper actuation point that some users might find more satisfying for general typing tasks. Thus, individuals who lean towards quicker response times may opt for the Dracula, whereas those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress depth might prefer the Cherry MX Brown.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 remains a bit of a mystery as its audio profile is not well-defined. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches produce a bassy and low-pitched sound that provides a rich auditory experience. The deeper tones during key presses would resonate nicely in a typical typing environment, giving a satisfying feedback without being overly loud or intrusive. This quality of sound might appeal to users looking for a more grounded auditory feedback compared to the potentially undefined sound of the Dracula switch.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch is characterized by its ultra-smooth action and enhanced durability due to its POK material construction and innovative stem design. This should translate to a very fluid typing experience that many typists and gamers alike appreciate. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their textured feel, offering a slight friction that some users may find satisfying, while others might prefer a smoother experience. The subtle tactility in the Browns provides just enough feedback to inform the typist of key actuation without being overly harsh.
In conclusion, while the Akko Dracula switch promises a smooth and durable typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown offers a subtly tactile feel paired with a bassy, low-pitched audio signature. Users who prioritize sound might gravitate towards the Cherry MX Browns for their rich sound profile, while those who value a smooth typing experience may prefer the Dracula switches. Both can provide satisfying results depending on individual preferences; however, their distinct characteristics make them suitable for different typing styles and experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience, the Akko Dracula is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram actuation force makes it great for extended typing sessions, and the ultra-smooth feel, enhanced by the POK material and innovative design, allows for minimal friction and an overall fluid keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit of feedback with each keystroke, the Cherry MX Brown’s medium-light 55-gram force offers a subtle tactile response without being overly pronounced. This is especially beneficial for typists who enjoy a combination of tactile and auditory sensations without the loudness that comes from other switch types. With its deeper, bassy sound profile and textured feel, the MX Brown can also provide a more classic mechanical feel that many users have come to love. Therefore, consider your typing style, whether you seek a smooth and quiet experience or a balanced tactile sensation, to determine which switch will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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