Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and Gateron Oil King (V2) stand out as compelling options for those who appreciate the nuanced differences in typing experiences. The Akko Dracula switch is designed with POK material for both its top case and stem, providing ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability, making it an excellent choice for users seeking longevity and reliability in their switches. Its innovative design includes an extra stem hole that optimizes airflow and further bolsters smoothness, appealing to gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) has garnered attention for its buttery smoothness and a unique sound profile that evokes the satisfying snap of dark chocolate, offering an enjoyable auditory experience while typing. It is characterized by its low-pitched, creamy, and silky feel, making it ideal for those who value a rich tactile experience. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Dracula emphasizes durability and smoothness, while the Oil King focuses on a luxurious auditory and tactile 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences, attributed to their different compositions. The Akko Dracula employs a top housing made from polyketone (POK), which offers an impressive balance of durability and smoothness due to its low coefficient of friction of 0.04. This structure allows for a smooth keystroke and enhances the overall durability of the switch, providing a clacky sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) features a lightweight nylon top housing, known for its deeper, fuller sound signature. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound effectively, yielding a more subdued auditory response compared to the sharper pitches facilitated by the POK material of the Dracula.
Similarly, both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings, which contributes to the auditory experience in a unique manner. Both the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Oil King (V2) share the beneficial properties of nylon, promoting a sound that is often characterized as deeper and rounder. This material's inherent softness helps to mitigate the impact noise, yielding a typing experience that is friendly and pleasant. However, the contrasting Gateron proprietary INK blend bottom housing diverges slightly in functionality, producing a more pronounced high-pitched sound profile compared to the nylon used in the Akko Dracula, which tends to be more muted. This distinction implies that while they may share the same material for their bottom housing, the variation in blends can lead to differences in overall sound quality and response.
Ultimately, the unique combination of materials in the Akko Dracula and Gateron Oil King (V2) offers keyboard enthusiasts diverse experiences tailored to personal preference. While the POK and nylon used in the Dracula provide a robust, smooth, and satisfying typing experience with a clackier sound, the Oil King’s nylon top combined with its proprietary bottom housing caters to those seeking a softer sound with lighter nuances. If both switches were crafted from the same material, one could expect a more consistent auditory and tactile experience throughout, consolidating the characteristics of each component into one cohesive feel. However, due to the specific choices made for each switch, users can look forward to distinct and enriching typing experiences that are reflective of the material properties utilized.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch to the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula has a notably light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing sessions, offering ease and comfort. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. This difference in force profiles means that while the Dracula is well-suited for prolonged use, the Oil King (V2) will provide a firmer push that some users appreciate for its tactile feedback. Consequently, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option compared to the medium-heavy Gateron Oil King (V2), allowing users to choose the switch that aligns best with their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, we see a slight distinction; the Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Oil King (V2) extends to 4.0 mm. This makes the Akko Dracula the shorter of the two, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive and quicker keystroke, often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2), with its longer travel distance, may provide a more traditional and deeper typing experience, which some users prefer for its more substantial feel. Ultimately, if you prioritize faster response times, the Akko Dracula would be the better choice, while the Gateron Oil King (V2) would be ideal for those who appreciate a more considerable depth in their keystrokes.
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 Oil King (V2) 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 has not been specifically described, making it difficult to comment on its acoustic profile. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is characterized by its low-pitched, bassy sound that offers a depth and richness reminiscent of dark chocolate snapping. This deeper tone can provide a pleasing auditory experience during typing, which might resonate well with users who prefer a more mellow sound compared to the sharper tones of some higher-pitched switches. Overall, the sound of both switches will also depend on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, potentially allowing for some adjustments in acoustics.
In the realm of feel, the Akko Dracula switch has not provided specific descriptors for its typing experience. Meanwhile, the Oil King (V2) excels with its creamy, silky, and buttery feel, delivering an ultra-smooth typing experience that feels effortless. The combination of the switch's design and possible factory lubrication enhances its polished nature, making key presses feel like gliding over the surface. Users can anticipate an ergonomic typing motion that minimizes resistance and maximizes comfort. In contrast, without more detailed information about the Dracula's feel, we cannot draw direct comparisons.
In conclusion, the Akko Dracula and Gateron Oil King (V2) offer distinct qualities that make them appealing in different ways. The Dracula switch, while beneficial in its ultra-smooth mechanical properties, lacks detailed descriptions for both sound and feel, making it challenging to draw thorough comparisons. The Gateron Oil King (V2), however, stands out with its rich, low-pitched sound and exceptionally smooth feel that enhances the typing experience. For those who prioritize auditory satisfaction, the Oil King may be the more favorable choice, while the Dracula may appeal to those seeking durability and smoothness in a switch design without the specifics. Ultimately, users will need to consider their preferences and typing style when making a decision.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth, durable feel, the Akko Dracula is the way to go. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for fast typists or those who enjoy a less strenuous typing experience. The innovative POK material adds to its smoothness and durability, making it an excellent choice for prolonged use, especially if you value responsiveness and quick keystrokes. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback and a deeper sound profile, the Gateron Oil King (V2) will suit you better. With its 65-gram bottom-out force, you can expect a creamy, silky experience that feels notably more solid with each press. The rich, low-pitched sound and buttery feel of the Oil King create a relaxing typing ambiance that can elevate your daily routine. In essence, choose the Akko Dracula for a lightweight, snappy feel and the Gateron Oil King (V2) for a robust, deep-mellow typing experience. Each switch offers distinct advantages, so consider which aspects matter most to you in your keyboard interaction.
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