Akko Dracula vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of distinct options, such as the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Speed Silver. The Akko Dracula switch stands out with its innovative POK material that enhances both durability and smooth typing experiences. Additionally, its unique design features an extra stem hole that improves airflow, catering to those who value a fluid keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is characterized by its rapid response time, making it a favored choice among gamers. With full-height construction and low spring resistance, the Speed Silver allows for nearly instantaneous actuation, ensuring that every keystroke is executed without delay—an advantage that can be crucial in competitive gaming environments. While both switches offer linear action and appealing benefits, they serve different audiences and use cases. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, one key distinction lies in the top housing. The Akko Dracula features a POK top housing, which is known for its smoothness and durability, whereas the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing. The POK material has a lower coefficient of friction at 0.04 compared to nylon’s 0.03, allowing for smoother key presses. Furthermore, the durability of POK surpasses that of nylon as it boasts a wear resistance rating that is 14 times stronger than POM — a common plastic in keyboard switches. This enhanced durability contributes to the overall longevity and performance of the Akko Dracula, making it ideal for typing enthusiasts who value responsiveness and durability over time.
In contrast, both the Akko Dracula and Cherry MX Speed Silver share the same housing material for their bottom housing: nylon. This alignment means that both switches can produce a similar deep and full sound profile during typing, given nylon's softer nature that dampens sound and absorbs impact. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, users of either switch can expect a rounder auditory feedback, which may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The consistency in the bottom housing across the two switches ensures that despite the differences at the top, the tactile and auditory sensations during typing remain connected through this shared material.
While the top and bottom housings in the Akko Dracula and Cherry MX Speed Silver are different, their effects on the overall typing experience are distinct yet complementary. The durability and smoothness of the POK top housing in the Dracula enhance the actuation feel, making it suitable for fast or repetitive typing. Conversely, the shared nylon bottom housing ties both switches together by providing a cohesive sound experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific user preferences: the Akko Dracula for those prioritizing smoothness and durability, and the Cherry MX Speed Silver for users who favor a more traditional, subdued acoustical profile, but both can offer satisfying results thanks to the versatile properties of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Akko Dracula features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and long gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. While the bottom out force of the Akko Dracula is measured at 45 grams, the Cherry MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This uncertainty means that while the Dracula provides a more predictable bottoming out experience, the MX Speed Silver may vary in that regard. Overall, for those who prioritize a lighter touch and sustained comfort, the Akko Dracula is the better choice, whereas the Cherry MX Speed Silver serves those who seek a firmer push when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, there is a notable difference to consider. The Dracula switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the MX Speed Silver features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This distinction means that users seeking a more responsive feel may prefer the MX Speed Silver, as shorter travel distances are favored for quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their key presses might opt for the Akko Dracula, as its longer travel distance offers a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 does not have a specific description available, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Cherry MX Speed Silver. However, the Speed Silver is characterized by its thocky and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the Speed Silver creates a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory response, similar to a soft thud or knock when pressed. The overall sound experience is influenced by the choice of keyboard boards and keycaps, meaning that while the Speed Silver has a distinct profile, the sound of the Dracula could vary depending on its configuration.
In terms of feel, there is no specific information available for the Dracula switch, making a direct comparison challenging. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured feel, which implies that users will experience some noticeable friction during keypresses. This texture can be polarizing; some users appreciate the tactile feedback while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing sensation. If the Dracula features a similarly polished or smooth design, typists would likely enjoy a comparable experience in terms of fluidity and tactile response.
In conclusion, while the sound profile of the Akko Dracula remains uncertain, it is the Cherry MX Speed Silver that stands out with its thocky, low-pitched auditory experience. On the feel front, the Speed Silver’s textured characteristics may cater to specific preferences for feedback during typing. Without precise details on the Dracula's qualities, it’s challenging to make conclusive comparisons. Ultimately, enthusiasts looking for a linear experience should sample both switches, keeping in mind that certain characteristics may resonate more positively depending on individual preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, your choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a smooth typing experience and prefer a slightly lighter actuation force, the Akko Dracula is the way to go. Its innovative design with POK material enhances durability and provides ultra-smooth key presses, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a lighter touch and a quieter workspace. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for speed and responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver shines with its rapid actuation and low spring resistance. This switch is built for those quick reflexes where every millisecond counts, making it ideal for high-stakes gaming. Additionally, the Speed Silver's textured feel and thocky sound can enhance the overall gaming experience, although they may not be as smooth as the Akko Dracula. In short, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a smooth, durable typing sensation or a speedy and tactile gaming experience.
Mentioned in this article
