Akko Dracula vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, options abound, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Akko Dracula switch is a linear switch renowned for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to its use of POK material for the top case and stem, as well as its innovative extra stem hole that enhances airflow and smoothness. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize fluid keystrokes without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch epitomizes the tactile category, providing a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which many users find satisfying for both typing and gaming. This tactile feel can help typists gauge when a key has been registered, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. While the Akko Dracula excels in providing a smooth journey with quiet keystrokes, the Outemu Dustproof Brown offers the feedback and engagement that many users crave. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Dracula Linear

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, distinct differences emerge in their compositions, particularly in their top housing. The Dracula utilizes a POK (polyketone) material for its upper component, celebrated for its exceptionally low coefficient of friction and profound durability. This results in a smooth, clacky typing experience, as the POK's strength and shock resistance significantly enhance the overall performance of the switch. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials contribute to a pleasing typing experience, the POK emphasizes durability and smoothness, whereas polycarbonate leans toward resonance and clarity.

The bottom housing for both the Dracula and the Dustproof Brown is crafted from nylon, which is a shared characteristic that leads to a unified auditory experience despite the differences above. As a classic switch housing material, nylon’s inherent qualities deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound waves better than its stiffer counterparts. This shared nylon component means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a consistent and rich auditory response, creating a satisfying typing sensation. It highlights how even with differing top housing materials, the nylon influence unifies the bottom-out feel and sound, producing a harmonized experience.

In summary, while the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Brown showcase contrasting materials in their top housings—POK for the former and polycarbonate for the latter—the harmonious utilization of nylon in both bottom housings creates a cohesive auditory experience. Users can look forward to a distinct combination of sound profiles: the Dracula provides a more robust and durable feel, enhanced by its POK structure, whereas the Dustproof Brown complements its sharper notes with a transparent aesthetic optimal for RGB lighting. Ultimately, the differences in materials contribute to varied sound experiences during play, while the commonality in nylon ensures that both switches deliver satisfying acoustic richness during use.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, is considered medium-heavy, providing a more substantial feeling with each keystroke. This difference means that users who favor a heavier switch might find the Dustproof Brown more satisfying, while those who lean toward a lighter feel would appreciate the Dracula. Overall, the Dracula is the lighter option, whereas the Dustproof Brown presents a firmer push, making for a contrasting typing experience between the two switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, the Akko Dracula has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you prefer a faster response time typically favored by gamers, the Akko Dracula would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a deeper key press experience. Overall, selecting between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for key responsiveness and depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, the Dracula switch is known for producing a deep, subtle thock when bottomed out, contributing to a pleasing acoustic profile that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown, being a tactile switch, delivers a softer, muted sound with a gentle click at the actuation point. Both switches can produce distinct sounds influenced by various factors, including the keyboard construction and keycap materials, but users can generally expect a quieter experience with the Dustproof Brown compared to the more resonant sound of the Dracula switch.

Regarding the feel, the Akko Dracula switch is designed for ultra-smooth typing, thanks to its POK material and additional stem hole, which work together to enhance the fluidity of keystrokes. As a linear switch, it provides a consistent and uninterrupted keypress without any tactile bump. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch features a noticeable tactile bump at the actuation point, which many typists find satisfying as it provides feedback for each keystroke. While both switches cater to different preferences, the Dracula offers a seamless and smooth experience, whereas the Dustproof Brown provides tactile confirmation with each press.

In summary, the Akko Dracula switch excels in delivering a smooth sound and feel, appealing to those who appreciate linear switches, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Brown offers a more tactile experience with a softer sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer the quiet and fluidity of a linear switch or the tactile feedback of a brown switch. Both options can create satisfying typing experiences, but they will resonate differently according to your personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your preferences for typing feel, actuation force, and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience, the Akko Dracula switch is an excellent choice with its 45-gram actuation force, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming due to its reduced fatigue over time. The use of POK material enhances both durability and smoothness, providing a satisfying and whisper-quiet experience, which is perfect for environments where noise discipline is essential. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feel and prefer a bit more resistance when pressing keys, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch would suit you better. With a 65-gram actuation force, it delivers a considerable tactile bump that can enhance your typing accuracy, making it great for typists who enjoy feedback with each keystroke. It's worth noting that the Dustproof Brown will produce a more noticeable sound when typing, which some users might find appealing in terms of auditory feedback. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs: go for the Akko Dracula for an ultra-smooth and quiet experience, or choose the Outemu Dustproof Brown for tactile feedback and a firmer keypress.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Dracula Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more