Akko Dracula vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the KTT Orange both offer enticing options for those who prefer linear switches, yet they cater to different tactile experiences. The Akko Dracula switch stands out with its innovative POK material construction, providing ultra-smooth typing along with enhanced durability. Its design features an extra stem hole that improves airflow and further enhances smoothness, making it a solid choice for users seeking a reliable and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are characterized by their bouncy feel, thanks to a 22mm long spring, and a frictionless operation owing to their polycarbonate top housing and long pole POM stem. The vibrant orange nylon bottom housing not only adds a pop of color but also contributes to a low-pitched sound profile, allowing for a quieter typing experience. While both switches excel in their own rights, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer the smooth, durable feel of the Akko Dracula or the bouncy, frictionless typing of the KTT Orange. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Akko Dracula and KTT Orange switches present a fascinating contrast in terms of sound profiles and material characteristics. The Dracula's top housing is crafted from polyketone (POK), a material recognized for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it allows for a fluid typing experience while maintaining a robust structure that is 14 times stronger than POM. This durability translates into a switch that not only feels good to type on but also minimizes wear over time. In comparison, the KTT Orange employs polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffer composition. The polycarbonate’s translucency also enhances aesthetics, particularly under RGB lighting, providing a striking visual effect that enhances the typing experience.
Examining the bottom housing of both switches reveals further differences in sound characteristics and material preferences. The Dracula utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, noted for its softer nature that contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This choice of material absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, generating a rounder audio output that could appeal to users who favor a more subdued typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Orange's bottom housing is also made from polycarbonate, which mirrors the top housing's properties, leading to a brighter and more resonant sound. The consistent use of polycarbonate in both housings typically results in a more cohesive sound signature, emphasizing clarity and high-pitched sounds, making it a top choice for those seeking a pronounced auditory feedback when typing.
In summary, while the Akko Dracula and KTT Orange switches utilize distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, this divergence leads to varying acoustic properties and tactile experiences. The Dracula's combination of POK and nylon facilitates a smooth and warm typing feel, ideal for those who appreciate a muted sound profile. In contrast, the KTT Orange, with its dual polycarbonate construction, offers a bright and crisp auditory experience, catering to users who enjoy pronounced sound feedback. However, if a user seeks specific characteristics, such as smoother operation or deeper sounds, they may achieve similar results by carefully mixing and matching switches, as the qualities brought by different housing materials will influence the overall feel and sound profile of the completed switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Dracula features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial feel that may appeal to those who favor a stronger push during typing. Therefore, if you prioritize a light typing experience, the Akko Dracula would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a more tactile feel, the KTT Orange is the way to go. Overall, these specifications reveal a clear distinction, with the Akko Dracula being the lighter switch and the KTT Orange leaning towards a heavier force rating.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you choose the Dracula switch, you'll experience a more pronounced key press, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a heartier depth while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the KTT Orange, with its shorter travel distance, provides a quicker response, making it a suitable option for gamers seeking rapid keystrokes and swift execution in fast-paced environments. Thus, the Dracula switch is the longer option, offering a deeper feel, while the Orange switch is shorter, catering to those who favor responsiveness and faster activation.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 is known for its pleasant and rounded acoustic profile, likely enhanced by its POK material which may dampen higher frequencies. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound, delivering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that contrasts with the potentially brighter sounds from other switch types. This low-pitched quality can provide a more subtle auditory experience, especially suitable for quieter environments. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced by the keyboard's construction, including the chosen plate and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, aided by its unique design featuring an extra stem hole for improved airflow and reduced friction. This smoothness is complemented by the enhanced durability provided by its POK material. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch showcases a lively and bouncy feel due to its 22mm long spring, giving users a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. Moreover, the frictionless nature of the KTT Orange switch contributes to an effortless typing experience, allowing for fluid key travel without resistance. Thus, while both switches provide smoothness, the Dracula emphasizes its durability and airflow for an overall silky typing experience, while the Orange leans more towards a lively and dynamic feedback.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and KTT Orange linear switches have their unique attributes that cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Dracula offers a refined smoothness, while the Orange presents a bouncier and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched acoustic profile. If you're looking for an ultra-smooth yet durable switch, the Dracula is a solid choice, while the KTT Orange would be ideal for those seeking a lively typing experience with minimal friction. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile. If you lean towards a lighter switch that emphasizes ultra-smoothness and durability, the Akko Dracula with its 45-gram bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for you. Its innovative POK material and extra stem hole enhance the typing experience by offering greater airflow and reduced friction, making it particularly appealing for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where speed and smoothness are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a notable bounce, the KTT Orange, featuring a medium-light 53-gram bottom out force, might suit you better. Its bouncy character provides an energetic typing sensation, while the low-pitched sound profile ensures a more subdued auditory experience as you type. Additionally, the factory lubrication and frictionless design of the KTT Orange contribute to a refined and responsive typing experience. In summary, consider the Akko Dracula for a lightweight and silky-smooth experience, and opt for the KTT Orange if you desire a bouncy, lively feedback with a pleasant sound.
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