Akko Dracula vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the Outemu Tom stand out for their distinctive characteristics. The Akko Dracula is a linear switch that excels in providing an ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to its POK material in the top case and stem, as well as an innovative design featuring an extra stem hole to enhance airflow and smoothness. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and fluidity. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom, being a tactile switch, offers a noticeable bump during key presses that can enhance typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback. This characteristic is ideal for individuals who enjoy a more tactile response while typing. Ultimately, your choice between the Akko Dracula's seamless performance and the Outemu Tom's gratifying tactile feel will depend on your personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom differ significantly in their top housing materials, with the Dracula utilizing polyketone (POK) and the Tom employing polycarbonate. POK is lauded for its low coefficient of friction (0.04) compared to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This distinction suggests that while both materials aim to enhance the smoothness of keypresses, the POK top housing focuses on a smooth, clacky experience due to its wear resistance and shock properties, making it a durable choice. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing's clarity allows for a more resonant sound when the keys are released, appealing to users who prioritize RGB lighting aesthetics as polycarbonate is naturally more translucent.
Despite the different materials used for the top housing, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which results in similar sound characteristics when typing. The nylon, being a softer plastic, is responsible for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. This commonality reveals that the bottom housing's material properties will deliver a distinguishing auditory experience that binds the two switches. As the nylon absorbs sound more effectively than the harder plastics, users can expect a consistent sound signature that elevates the typing experience, ensuring that the overall feel remains enjoyable regardless of the differences upstream.
Furthermore, as the qualities of each housing contribute to the overall performance of the switches, users can anticipate a blend of sound and tactile responses that hinge on both the top and bottom materials. Regarding the bottom housing, its impact on the bottom-out feel and sound is substantial; however, the overall typing experience can still be influenced by the unique characteristics of the top housings. As a result, even with differing materials for the top housing, the Akko Dracula and Outemu Tom can still provide a satisfying typing experience through their complementary components, demonstrating how the interplay between different housing materials shapes the overall outcome.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Akko Dracula features a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or intense gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Tom requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Tom switch is unknown, leaving an incomplete picture of its overall resistance during key presses. Meanwhile, the Dracula's bottom out force is 45 grams, reinforcing its lighter feel compared to the Tom's actuation requirement. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that minimizes strain over long periods, the Akko Dracula is the superior option, whereas the Outemu Tom offers a more robust push for those who prefer additional tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the Dracula offers a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Tom has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference means that those who opt for the Akko Dracula will experience a deeper feel with each keystroke, which is often preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers or users seeking faster response times and a more responsive experience. Thus, if one prefers a hearty depth, the Akko Dracula is the ideal choice, whereas the Outemu Tom is better suited for those who favor a snappier feel.
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 Tom 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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, both are characterized by distinct auditory experiences that can influence user preference. The Dracula switch, known for its ultra-smooth design, tends to produce a quieter, more subdued sound during typing due to its linear nature. In contrast, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is likely to offer a more pronounced sound due to its tactile bump, which typically leads to a sharper feedback noise when the switch is activated. However, it's important to note that the actual sound will also depend on the keyboard build, the material of the keycaps, and the overall noise dampening present in the setup.
Focusing on the feel, the Akko Dracula switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, thanks in part to its POK material construction and the extra stem hole that promotes airflow. This design enables a seamless keypress that many typists appreciate for prolonged usage. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch provides a different sensation with its tactile bump, which delivers a crisp feedback when the actuation point is reached. This tactile element can offer a more satisfying sensation for users who prefer a noticeable response. Despite the differences, both switches have their unique appeal, catering to varying typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Akko Dracula linear and Outemu Tom tactile switches each provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that resonate with different types of users. The Dracula’s smoothness might make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quieter keyboard and uninterrupted keystrokes, while the Tom's tactile feedback could be ideal for individuals who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can satisfy different needs, ensuring that newcomers can find an option based on their typing style and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch should depend on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a smooth and lighter typing experience, the Akko Dracula switch, with its 45-gram bottom out force and ultra-smooth feel thanks to the innovative POK material and design features, would be an excellent pick. This switch is particularly well-suited for fast-paced gaming or for those who spend long hours typing, as it reduces fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback experience that helps you feel each keypress without the additional noise associated with clicky switches, the Outemu Tom could be your ideal choice, especially if you enjoy the satisfaction of a responsive touch during typing. In essence, prioritize the Akko Dracula for a smoother, quieter experience, and the Outemu Tom for a tactile, engaging feel.
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