Akko Dracula vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Milk Tea present two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko Dracula is celebrated for its ultra-smooth linear feedback, enhanced by its POK material construction and innovative design features, such as an extra stem hole that promotes better airflow and overall typing fluidity. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who favor quick, uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea, classified as a tactile switch, offers a discernible bump for tactile feedback, making it well-suited for those who appreciate a more traditional typing experience with a satisfying response. Ultimately, the choice between a smooth linear feel and a tactile feedback experience can influence your overall satisfaction with a keyboard. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko Dracula and Outemu Milk Tea switches showcase a compelling contrast in their top housing materials, with each employing distinct advantages in the keyboard experience. The Dracula utilizes polyketone (POK) for its top housing, which is recognized for its smoothness and durability—boasting a lower coefficient of friction that enhances the overall typing experience. POK's exceptional wear resistance and shock absorption mechanism contribute to a more cushioned and satisfying keystroke, resulting in a sound signature that is clacky and resonant. In contrast, the Milk Tea version features LY, a newer material noted for its bright sound signature, which gives it a distinctive resonance during typing. While both switch designs utilize top housings designed to enhance sound and feel, they achieve their objectives through different material properties.
On the flip side, both the Akko Dracula and Outemu Milk Tea switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a unified experience in terms of sound profile despite the differences in the upper housings. Nylon is well-regarded in the keyboard community for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. This inherent quality adds a smoothness to the tactile feedback, making the sound feel rounder and less harsh. Thus, while the top housings define the prominent auditory character of each switch, the nylon bottom housing grounds them in a rich and familiar acoustic signature that underscores their common heritage.
When considering the interaction of the two housing materials, the design highlights how the distinct characteristics of the top and bottom housings work in tandem to form a unique typing experience for each switch. The POK top housing of the Dracula adds a smooth and crisp touch to the actuation, effectively enhancing the clacky quality when keys are released. Conversely, the LY top housing of the Milk Tea contributes to its bright sound but shares the same bottom housing material, providing a similar full-bodied sound profile when the key is pressed. Therefore, while the top materials differ significantly, the nylon bottom housing ensures a level of consistency in the tactile experience and overall sound production, allowing for a distinct yet familiar typing sensation in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, we see a notable difference in actuation force. The Dracula switch features a light actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial feeling that some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. However, the bottom out force for the Milk Tea switch is unknown, making it difficult to draw any conclusions about its overall resistance when fully pressed down. In summary, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, while the Outemu Milk Tea is heavier, catering to different user preferences for typing comfort and experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, the Dracula offers a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference may appeal to different types of users; those who favor quicker response times might prefer the Dracula switch due to its shorter travel, making it suitable for gaming scenarios where every millimeter counts. Conversely, the Milk Tea switch, with its longer travel distance, could be favored by those who appreciate a more substantial feel and a deeper keystroke, providing a sense of satisfying feedback. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purpose, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile depth in your typing 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 Milk Tea 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 evaluating the sound profiles of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it's essential to recognize that each switch’s aural characteristics can be influenced by additional elements like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used. The Dracula switch is known for its refined, soft sound, producing a gentle thock that minimizes noise during operation while still providing pleasant auditory feedback. In contrast, the Milk Tea, being a tactile switch, typically delivers a pronounced sound upon actuation, characterized by a more noticeable click that offers a satisfying auditory response which can stand out in a quieter environment. Ultimately, the Dracula offers a subtler auditory experience, while the Milk Tea is likely to be louder and more pronounced.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Akko Dracula linear switch prides itself on an exceptionally smooth typing experience, largely due to the POK material used in its construction, which helps eliminate scratchiness and provides seamless key presses. The enhanced durability of the materials used also contributes to a consistent feel over time. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch presents a tactile bump that facilitates a distinct tactile feedback at the actuation point, allowing typists to feel the moment the switch registers a key press. While the Dracula's smooth action may appeal to those who favor an uninterrupted experience, the Milk Tea will attract users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation during their typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and Outemu Milk Tea switches present distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Dracula assures a quiet and smooth experience, appealing to minimalists or those who work in shared environments. Conversely, the Milk Tea's tactile bump and accompanying sound create an engaging feedback loop for users who relish the sensation of their key presses. Depending on your typing style and auditory preferences, these switches provide unique offerings that can significantly influence your overall experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it's essential to consider your specific typing preferences and what you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience. If you prefer a smooth, lightweight typing feel with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams, the Akko Dracula is an excellent option. Its innovative design featuring POK material enhances durability and airflow, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or if you enjoy fast-paced gaming. However, if you find yourself leaning towards a tactile feel that provides feedback with each keystroke, the Outemu Milk Tea switch could be more suitable for you, as tactile switches can enhance your typing accuracy and are often favored by typists who enjoy a more pronounced response. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the ultra-smooth action of the Akko Dracula or the satisfying tactile bump of the Outemu Milk Tea, ensuring your keyboard aligns with your unique style and needs.
Mentioned in this article
