Akko Dracula vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and Outemu Gold stand out for their distinct characteristics and user experiences. The Akko Dracula, a linear switch, is renowned for its ultra-smooth typing sensation, thanks to its POK material construction and an innovative extra stem hole that enhances airflow and smoothness, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking a quiet and seamless experience. In contrast, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, valued for its tactile feedback and satisfying auditory response, which can boost typing accuracy and provide an enjoyable typing experience. While the Dracula is ideal for those looking for speed and fluidity, the Gold caters to users who appreciate feedback and a more engaging tactile experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Gold switches, the most notable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Dracula utilizes polyketone (POK) for its top housing, a material recognized for its smoothness, strength, and durability, boasting a coefficient of friction slightly higher than LY, which enhances the overall feel during key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Gold features polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relative stiffness. This property makes polycarbonate particularly advantageous when it comes to RGB lighting applications, as its translucency allows for better light diffusion. Despite these distinctions, both materials contribute to the switches' performance by enhancing typing experience and auditory feedback, albeit in distinctly different ways.
On the other hand, both the Akko Dracula and Outemu Gold utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a point of similarity in the overall switch design. Nylon is a classic choice in switch housing that yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily because it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. Because the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel during typing, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying auditory experience, marked by a rounder and more muted sound profile. This shared material characteristic allows users to expect a certain acoustic consistency when typing on either switch.
The differing top housing materials between the Dracula and the Gold ultimately highlight how variations in materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the Dracula's POK top housing enhances smoothness and contributes to a “clacky” sound, the Outemu Gold’s polycarbonate top produces a sharper, more resonant auditory quality that aligns well with RGB aesthetics. Conversely, the nylon bottom housings in both switches ensure that a profound and consistent deep sound is present across both models. This combination illustrates a well-balanced interplay of qualities, allowing users to experience distinct sensations while typing, shaped by each switch's unique material components.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams, with a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter touch. In contrast, the Outemu Gold requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. Thus, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, while the Outemu Gold is heavier, catering to differing user preferences for comfort and typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the distinctions are notable. The Akko Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Outemu Gold has a travel distance of 4 mm, categorizing it as the longer switch. A shorter travel distance, like that of the Dracula, can offer quicker response times, appealing especially to gamers who prioritize speed. In contrast, the slightly longer travel distance of the Gold may provide a more pronounced tactile feel, which some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one values responsiveness or the comforting depth of a longer travel distance.
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 Gold 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 sound produced by the Akko Dracula linear switch is notably quiet and subdued, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. This characteristic is particularly advantageous in shared workspaces or environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is designed to produce an audible click with every keystroke, which many typists find satisfying and provides a clear confirmation that a key has been actuated. This distinctive sound can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback, however, it can also be more disruptive in quiet settings. Overall, if you're seeking a quieter operation, the Dracula will serve you well, while the Gold will appeal to those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch provides an ultra-smooth typing experience due to its POK material and design innovations. The extra stem hole contributes to improved airflow, resulting in a smooth and consistent actuation that many users find enjoyable for long typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switch offers a more tactile experience, with the click mechanism giving clear resistance and feedback as you press the key down. While the smoothness of the Dracula is ideal for fluid typing, the tactile sensation of the Gold can enhance the engagement and satisfaction of each keystroke, catering to different preferences when it comes to tactile feedback.
Overall, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch ultimately comes down to personal preference in both sound and feel. The Dracula is suited for those who prioritize a quiet, smooth typing experience, while the Gold will appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate a tactile click and feedback with every keystroke. Understanding these subjective qualities can help newcomers to mechanical keyboards make informed decisions based on their typing habits and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch largely hinges on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a smoother, quieter experience with a light actuation force, the Dracula is the way to go. Its innovative design offers enhanced durability and a superior typing feel, ideal for those who type extensively or prefer a more fluid keystroke without tactile resistance. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced clicking sound and a more substantial bottom-out force that provides tactile feedback, the Gold clicky switch would suit you better. This switch can be particularly satisfying for gaming or typing tasks that benefit from audible confirmation of each keystroke. Ultimately, it’s essential to consider whether you prioritize a quiet, smooth typing experience or a sharper, clicky feedback that can enhance your overall engagement with the keyboard.
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