Akko Dracula vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Purple RGB offer distinctive characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Akko Dracula, a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to its innovative POK material top case and stem, as well as its unique extra stem hole that enhances airflow and overall smoothness. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes and fast-paced gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, a tactile option, provides a nuanced feedback experience with a medium-strength bump, appealing to users who enjoy a distinct tactile response when typing. Developed in partnership with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, it strikes a balance between satisfying tactile feedback and responsive actuation. Both switches cater to specific user desires—smooth linear action versus satisfying tactile feedback—yet ultimately serve the function of enhancing your typing or gaming 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Dracula and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches exhibit notable differences, particularly with the top housing. The Akko Dracula features a POK material for its top, which is known for its exceptional durability and smoothness due to a lower coefficient of friction. The tight specifications of POK contribute to a clackier sound profile and an impressive wear resistance, making it a preferred choice for enthusiasts who value performance and longevity in their switches. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilizes a classic nylon material for its top housing. Nylon is softer and offers a deeper sound profile, absorbing sound waves more effectively, which results in a duller, rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference between the two materials leads to varied tactile and acoustic qualities when typing.
The bottom housings of both the Akko Dracula and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches share a commonality as both are made from nylon. This shared material enhances the auditory experience in a similar manner; nylon’s soft plastic nature contributes to a fuller sound profile, enriching the acoustic feedback while typing. The similarity in bottom housing materials implies that both switches will deliver a deep, resonant sound during use, regardless of the differing materials in their tops. However, the differing characteristics of the top housing will influence how the sound is perceived once the key is released, highlighting the significant impact that the top and bottom housings have on overall switch performance.
In essence, the disparity between the top housing materials of the Akko Dracula and Cherry MX Purple RGB serves to create varied tactile and auditory experiences, while the similarity in their bottom housing materials allows for a consistent sound profile. The Akko Dracula’s POK top enhances the smoothness and durability of key presses, leading to a crisper feel upon bottoming out, while the nylon top of the Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a softer and more muted response. Overall, both switches utilize nylon for their bottoms, promoting a shared acoustic quality, but the differences in the top housing create distinct profiles that cater to different preferences among users.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch offers an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a relatively light option that caters well to users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a firmer feel when triggering a keystroke, although its bottom out force is not specified. This makes the Cherry MX Purple RGB a heavier switch compared to the Akko Dracula. The difference in actuation forces suggests that users who favor a lighter switch for comfort over long periods may lean towards the Akko Dracula, while those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Cherry MX Purple RGB for its increased resistance. However, without a bottom out force specified for the Cherry MX switch, it's difficult to make a comprehensive comparison on that aspect. Overall, for users who seek a balance between comfort and firmness, the Akko Dracula stands out as the lighter and more user-friendly option.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that for users seeking quicker response times, the Dracula switch may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance, which aligns with modern preferences in gaming for more efficiency. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple, with its 4 mm travel, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing, providing a more traditional key press experience. Overall, if you're looking for a faster response, the Akko Dracula is the better choice, while the Cherry MX Purple caters to those who appreciate a deeper and more tactile feel.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 tends to offer a relatively quiet typing experience, which many users find appealing for both home and office environments. This is largely due to its smoother mechanism that minimizes unwanted noise during key presses. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch produces a slightly more pronounced sound profile, characteristic of tactile switches. The distinct tactile bump creates an audible click that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy auditory feedback. However, sound perception can vary greatly depending on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, so achieving a similar auditory profile can depend on these external factors.
Regarding feel, the Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing experience, largely owing to its innovative design that includes POK material and enhanced airflow through an additional stem hole. This results in a fluid keystroke that many users find satisfying for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a refined tactile bump that is both noticeable and satisfying, appealing to those who prefer a more dynamic feedback as they type. While the Dracula delivers a linear, smooth action, the MX Purple provides a tactile experience that is ideal for users who appreciate a substantial keystroke feel.
In summary, both the Akko Dracula and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Dracula switch excels in smoothness and quiet operation, appealing to users seeking a seamless typing experience. Meanwhile, the MX Purple RGB appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts who enjoy a pronounced bump and an audible click. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth typing experience or the satisfying feedback of a tactile switch, as each can be optimized with the right keyboard and keycap combination to achieve your desired performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately boils down to your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter switch that provides a smooth, uninterrupted keypress experience, especially for fast-paced gaming or long typing sessions, the Akko Dracula is an excellent choice. Its innovative design and enhanced durability make it well-suited for those who prioritize comfort and a seamless feel without the distraction of tactile feedback. Alternatively, if you enjoy a distinct tactile bump and are looking for a switch that offers a more pronounced typing experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be more to your liking. This switch is designed for those who appreciate immediate feedback while typing or gaming, enriching the overall tactile sensation of every keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value smoothness or tactile feedback more in your daily use.
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