Akko Dracula vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Blue present users with distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula, a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-smooth keystrokes and enhanced durability thanks to its innovative POK material for the top case and stem, along with an extra stem hole that promotes improved airflow. This makes it highly appealing for gamers or those who prefer a quiet and seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue, known for its clicky feedback, offers an auditory and tactile response that many typists find satisfying and engaging, energizing the act of typing with each keystroke. While choosing the Dracula might be ideal for those prioritizing smoothness and noise reduction, the Blue promises a visible and audible indication with every press, perfect for typists who enjoy the traditional feel of mechanical switches. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Blue switches exhibit both similarities and noteworthy contrasts, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Akko Dracula utilizes POK material, a polyketone known for its exceptional smoothness and durability, while the Outemu Blue employs polycarbonate for its top housing. While both materials aim to enhance the user experience, they do so in distinct ways. POK's coefficient of friction is slightly higher than that of polycarbonate, contributing to a smoother keystroke, whereas polycarbonate's stiffness delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Therefore, users looking for a smoother and more clacky typing experience may find the Dracula preferable, whereas those desiring a crisper sound may lean toward the Outemu Blue.
Conversely, both the Akko Dracula and Outemu Blue share the same bottom housing material, nylon, which influences the sound profile produced during typing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material recognized for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller audio experience. The uniformity of the bottom housing in both switches means that typists can expect a consistent sound characteristic regardless of whether they choose the Dracula or the Blue. This shared bottom housing construction ensures that while the top housing may contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of each switch, the depth and rounding traits provided by nylon will be present in both options.
Ultimately, when considering the overall performance of the Akko Dracula and Outemu Blue, the interplay between the different housing materials plays a crucial role. The distinct compositions of the top housings lead to differentiated sound profiles, while the nylon bottom housing maintains a cohesive auditory foundation. As such, users may achieve similar results when examining the bottom-out sound and feel due to that shared nylon material, despite variances in the top housing. This means that while one switch may feel smoother or crisper depending on the top housing, both will deliver a robust and deep auditory experience due to the nylon bases, ensuring comprehensive satisfaction regardless of the chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the differences in actuation force stand out significantly. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods, which is ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for long work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial tactile feedback that some typists may prefer for a more engaging typing experience. However, while the bottom out force for the Akko Dracula is well-defined at 45 grams, the bottom out force for the Outemu Blue is unknown. Overall, if you favor lighter switches, the Akko Dracula would be your go-to, while those who enjoy a firmer response might lean towards the Outemu Blue despite the lack of information on its bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch features a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Outemu Blue switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko Dracula, which is more aligned with traditional switch designs. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the shorter 3.8 mm distance of the Dracula may be more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation. However, some users may prefer the more pronounced feel of the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Outemu Blue, as it provides a deeper press that can enhance typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for either responsiveness or a more substantial keypress experience.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 considering the sound profile of mechanical switches, the Akko Dracula linear switch leans towards a more muted experience, characteristic of linear switches, which tend to provide a quieter typing environment due to the absence of tactile bumps or clicks. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a distinct auditory feedback with a pronounced click on actuation, creating a more engaging and sometimes satisfying sound for typists who enjoy audible cues to signal keypresses. However, it's important to note that sound can be influenced by various factors such as the choice of keyboard construction, materials, and keycap design, which means that users may experience different sound results even with the same switch.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the Akko Dracula switch is engineered for an ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its POK material and innovative design, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke that many typists find enjoyable for prolonged use. This smoothness is largely absent in the Outemu Blue switch, which features a tactile bump and a click mechanism that creates a different sensation upon keypress. The tactile feedback of the Blue switch may appeal to users who appreciate a more interactive feel, as it signals distinctly when a key is actuated, whereas the Dracula’s linear nature emphasizes a consistent keystroke without interruptions.
In conclusion, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Dracula is likely the better choice, while the Outemu Blue caters to those who enjoy a tactile and auditory response with each keystroke. Since sound and feel can vary based on the keyboard and keycap choice, either option can still yield satisfying results depending on individual tastes and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, particularly for long hours of work or gaming, the Dracula linear switch is an excellent choice thanks to its light actuation force and durable design featuring POK material. Its enhanced airflow and smoothness contribute to a more seamless interaction, making it ideal for those who favor undisturbed focus. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and satisfying clicky sounds that enhance your typing performance, the Outemu Blue switch may be more to your liking. The distinct auditory and tactile responses can be particularly rewarding for typists or gamers who thrive on the confirmation of each keystroke. Remember, your choice should also consider the setting you’ll be typing in; if noise is a concern, the smoother and quieter Dracula would be preferable. Ultimately, assessing your typing style, noise tolerance, and the intended use will guide you toward the switch that best fits your needs.
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