Akko Dracula vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, with each option offering its own unique features and benefits. The Akko Dracula switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material in the top case and stem, providing an ultra-smooth typing experience alongside enhanced durability. Additionally, its design incorporates an extra stem hole, allowing for improved airflow and smoothness during use—ideal for typists seeking a polished feel. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch, while not as widely recognized for specific features, typically caters to those who prioritize a straightforward, linear typing experience that offers consistent key presses without tactile feedback or audible clicks. Both switches have their merits, yet the Akko Dracula leans towards those who appreciate a premium and refined typing feel, while the Dustproof Red may attract users looking for an uncomplicated, reliable linear switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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 Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches employ distinctly different materials in their top housings, yet the two switches share a commonality in their bottom housings. The Dracula features a POK (polyketone) top housing, which is revered for its smooth performance and superior durability—exhibiting a coefficient of friction of 0.04 and shock resistance exceeding that of traditionally used materials like Nylon and POM. This choice of material contributes to a clackier and more tactile feel during typing, providing users with a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Red utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which resonates with a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, giving the switch a visually appealing aesthetic when illuminated. Thus, while the two switches offer distinct auditory experiences due to their top housing materials, their bottom housing, composed of nylon, contributes a more rounded and deeper sound signature that is uniform across both switches.
Both switches employ nylon as the bottom housing material, which plays a crucial role in shaping the overall acoustic characteristics. Nylon’s softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound profile no matter which switch is being used. This shared feature allows both the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Red to provide a particularly pleasant typing experience, demonstrating that the fundamental qualities of the bottom housing can bridge the differences in top housing materials. When typing on either switch, users will find that the nylon bottom housing effectively dampens the noise, creating a more subdued sound that contrasts with the sharper profiles produced by their respective top housings.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials with the same nylon bottom housing in the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Dustproof Red leads to a multifaceted typing experience. While the Dracula’s POK top housing enhances smoothness and durability, contributing to a clackier sound upon release, the Dustproof Red’s polycarbonate construction delivers a high-pitched and crisp tone that complements the rounder sound profile generated by the nylon bottom. Thus, while the top housings diverge in their contributions to sound and feel, the inertia of the nylon bottom ensures that the experience remains centered on a rich, full-bodied typing sound. The unique attributes of each switch highlight that a harmonious interplay between housing materials can yield diverse auditory and tactile outcomes, satisfying different user preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces arise. The Akko Dracula features an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option that may provide a more comfortable typing experience for extended use, ideal for long hours at work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch that offers a more substantial typing feel. This heavier feedback may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Consequently, if you favor a lighter switch, the Akko Dracula is the better choice; however, for those who appreciate a more robust tactile experience, the Outemu Dustproof Red would suit them better.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Akko Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users seeking a more responsive feel may prefer the Akko Dracula, as its shorter travel distance can facilitate quicker key presses, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming. Conversely, the Dustproof Red, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who favor a more tactile and deliberate keyboard experience, providing a more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for either a nimble touch or a deeper key engagement.
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 Dustproof Red 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
The Akko Dracula linear switch is noted for its potentially quiet acoustics, offering a soft, muted click that helps to maintain a more subdued typing environment. This focus on sound dampening is partly attributed to the POK material used in its construction, which contributes to a smoother sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch does not have specific sound characteristics mentioned, but typically, linear switches like the Red variant are known for their stealthy operation, making them inherently quieter than tactile or clicky switches. Keep in mind that the overall sound experience can vary significantly based on the keyboard assembly, including the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Dracula switch emphasizes its ultra-smooth typing experience, enhanced by the innovative design that includes an additional stem hole for improved airflow. This feature supports a fluid keystroke, likely making it a comfortable choice for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red linear switch has no specific feel characteristics highlighted, but it is generally expected to provide a linear and consistent keypress experience, favoring smoothness without the tactile feedback found in other switch types. Both switches cater to users who prefer a smooth actuation, offering a similar typing experience despite the absence of detailed descriptions for the Dustproof Red.
In summary, both the Akko Dracula and Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches are designed to offer a smooth and quiet typing experience, though the Dracula has more innovative features and specific sound qualities, while the Dustproof Red lacks detailed sound and feel descriptions. If you prioritize soft acoustics and enhanced smoothness, the Dracula may stand out, but you can still achieve a comparable experience with the Dustproof Red due to its nature as a linear switch. Ultimately, your choice may depend on the specific characteristics and preferences you prioritize in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, your choice should depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Akko Dracula is an excellent option. Its POK material provides a smooth typing experience, ensuring that your keystrokes feel effortless, which can be particularly beneficial during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Additionally, the innovative design with an extra stem hole enhances airflow and smoothness, making it suitable for users who prioritize a responsive and lightweight feel. On the other hand, if you find comfort in a firmer action, you might prefer the Outemu Dustproof Red, boasting a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams. While it may lack the specialized features of the Dracula, this switch can provide a reliable and robust typing experience, making it ideal for those who like a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the typing feel, weight, and sound characteristics you value most, allowing you to create a personalized keyboard experience that enhances both productivity and enjoyment.
Mentioned in this article
