Akko Dracula vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Blue present two distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Akko Dracula, a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing feel, thanks to its innovative POK material for both the top case and stem, which enhances durability and includes an extra stem hole for improved airflow and smoothness. This makes the Dracula an excellent choice for typists and gamers who value uninterrupted keystrokes without the tactile bump, prioritizing efficiency and quick response times. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is characterized by its clicky feedback, which not only provides auditory confirmation with every keystroke but also a tactile bump that many users find satisfying and encouraging during prolonged typing sessions. This switch often appeals to those who enjoy the nostalgic feel of traditional typewriter keys and want to enhance their writing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Akko Dracula Linear

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Blue represent two distinct approaches to the design of mechanical switches based on their housing materials. The Dracula features a POK (polyketone) top housing, which is renowned for its superior durability and smoothness. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, the POK material offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, as it glides effortlessly against the stem of the switch. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue uses a polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for enhanced resonance, especially when RGB lighting is utilized. While the two materials differ fundamentally in sound characteristics and tactile response, both are designed to optimize the performance and user experience of mechanical switches.

On the other hand, both switches employ nylon as their bottom housing material, which creates an interesting point of convergence between the two. Nylon is recognized for its acoustic properties, as it absorbs sound more efficiently than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. This commonality means that both the Akko Dracula and Outemu Dustproof Blue will provide a consistent auditory experience when pressed down, as the softer nature of nylon contributes a similar depth to their respective bottom-out sounds. Despite the variance in their top housings, both switches will share a harmonious sound combination that balances the crispness of the POK or polycarbonate with the richness of the nylon.

Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials juxtaposed with the shared nylon bottom housing illustrates how varied acoustic properties can complement one another in mechanical switches. Users of the Dracula will experience a smooth, clacky sound upon releasing a key due to the qualities of POK, while the Dustproof Blue will deliver a clearer, more resonant sound thanks to its polycarbonate housing. Nevertheless, both switches will preserve a deeper, fuller sound profile at the bottom-out due to the nylon's inherent sound absorption properties. This blend of materials showcases the delicate balance of tactile feedback and auditory experience in mechanical switch design, catering to diverse typing preferences while ensuring high performance across the board.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, a notable distinction arises in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula has a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to engage. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push. Consequently, the Dracula switch is more suited for users who value lightness and prolonged use, while the Dustproof Blue caters to those who appreciate a richer tactile feedback. Overall, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Blue definitely leans towards the heavier side of the spectrum.

Travel distance

The Akko Dracula linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dracula switch has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive and suited for gamers who favor quicker key presses. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced feel when typing, as it provides a greater sense of depth with each keystroke. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Akko Dracula would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a heartier typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Blue would be more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profile of the Akko Dracula linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, the differences are quite pronounced. The Dracula switch is inherently quieter due to its linear design, which lacks an audible click and focuses on a smooth keystroke. This makes it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. Conversely, the Dustproof Blue is crafted to be notably loud and satisfying, producing a distinct click with each press that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy audible feedback. The stark contrast between the two means that users who prefer silent operations will gravitate toward the Dracula, while those who thrive on auditory feedback will favor the Dustproof Blue.

In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switches offer a buttery smooth keystroke, which is bolstered by the innovative POK material use and the extra stem hole for improved airflow. This design results in a typing experience that minimizes resistance, making it ideal for those who prefer a light touch when typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch features a tactile bump that users feel at the actuation point, combined with the pronounced click sound, providing a more engaged sensation as you type. This switch might appeal to typists who appreciate the satisfaction of feeling each keystroke and the feedback that confirms each input.

In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Dracula excels in providing a quiet yet smooth typing experience, making it suitable for serene settings. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue delivers a loud and tactile feedback that many typists find enticing. Selecting between the two will ultimately depend on whether one prioritizes silence and smoothness or preferences for auditory and tactile feedback while typing.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter key feel with ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability, the Akko Dracula is an excellent choice. Its POK material construction and innovative design ensure that you experience a softer keystroke, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or casual gaming where speed and efficiency are key. Additionally, if you value a quieter environment, the linear nature of the Dracula will suit you well, as it minimizes sound while you type.

On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and the satisfying click of a traditional mechanical switch, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, this switch delivers a more robust feel that many typists appreciate, especially for precise input during typing or gaming. The audible click can enhance your typing experience, providing both auditory and tactile satisfaction, making it ideal for those who prefer a more traditional feel and sound while they work. Ultimately, think about the typing experience you want to have—smooth and quiet with the Dracula or tactile and audible with the Dustproof Blue—and choose accordingly to find your perfect mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Dracula Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more