Akko Dracula vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and HMX Perky offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its use of POK material in both the top case and stem, ensuring an ultra-smooth typing experience coupled with enhanced durability. Its innovative design, featuring an extra stem hole for improved airflow, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking longevity and responsiveness while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switches stand out with their softer, glittery nylon housings that provide a neutral and deeply satisfying tactile feel. Due to their shorter travel distance, the Perky switches deliver a more condensed typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a quick and responsive keystroke. Both switches cater to different user needs—whether you prioritize durability and smoothness with the Dracula or a satisfying tactile sensation with the Perky—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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Dracula switch features a top housing made from polyketone (POK), a material characterized by its exceptionally low coefficient of friction and high durability. POK's strength allows it to perform with minimal wear, proving 14 times more wear-resistant than POM and exhibiting superior shock resistance compared to both Nylon and POM. This results in a switch that is not only smooth to operate but also highly durable, leading to a consistent "clacky" sound and feel during use. The properties of POK make it ideal for users seeking a switch experience with less friction and greater longevity, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In contrast, the HMX Perky uses a top housing made from Nylon, a classic switch material renowned for its softer touch and distinct sound profile. While Nylon creates a fuller, deeper sound, it does so at the cost of a slightly higher friction coefficient, making it less smooth than a POK top housing. The sound characteristics set by Nylon contribute to a typing experience that is richer in tone but may lack the crispness associated with POK. This difference in sound can alter the user's tactile feedback, shaping the overall engagement with the keyboard.
Both switches share the same bottom housing material, Nylon, ensuring that the foundational acoustics and tactile response remain consistent across both models. This shared use of Nylon for the bottom housing means that, despite the differences in top housings, both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience when bottoming out, characterized by a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, while the Akko Dracula emphasizes a smooth and durable action with its POK top, the HMX Perky focuses on sound richness with a Nylon top—yet they intersect on the common foundation of a Nylon bottom that unifies their performance profiles when pressed down.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch exhibit differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, which can significantly influence user experience. The Dracula switch features an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the Perky switch has a higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as the heavier switch. This variance means that users who prefer a more effortless typing experience may gravitate towards the lighter Dracula switch, especially for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel might prefer the Perky switch. Both switches are considered light overall, but the Perky requires more force, thereby providing a firmer touch compared to the Dracula.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that the Dracula switch provides a more traditional feel with a greater depth, making it potentially more suitable for users who appreciate a hearty typing experience. In contrast, the Perky switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times, appealing especially to gamers who favor rapid keystrokes. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the HMX Perky linear switch would be the better option, while the Akko Dracula linear switch might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper, more deliberate actuation.
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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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 offers a sound profile that is generally smooth and refined, largely due to its POK material construction which helps dampen noise and vibrations. This results in a typing experience that is more subdued, making it suitable for environments where minimal sound is a priority. Conversely, the HMX Perky switch tends to produce a slightly more pleasant acoustic feedback owing to its softer nylon housing. The sound here can be described as a bit more lively, giving a more pronounced yet still muted auditory experience that many find enjoyable. It's worth noting that the overall sound produced by both switches will heavily depend on the keyboard they are used with and the keycaps chosen, leading to potential similarities or differences in auditory feedback based on specific setups.
When it comes to feel, the Dracula switch stands out with its ultra-smooth typing experience attributed to its innovative design and the additional stem hole that promotes airflow. This offers a consistency that many typists will appreciate, resulting in a light and effortless keystroke as you type. The HMX Perky switch, on the other hand, provides a distinctly different tactile sensation due to its shorter travel distance, leading to a more condensed typing experience. While still maintaining smoothness, the Perky has a subtle feedback that many typists find to be deeply satisfying, making it ideal for those who enjoy a brisker typing feel. Both switches are designed for comfort, but the Dracula leans towards a lush smoothness, while the Perky provides a more rapid and responsive touch.
In summary, while the Akko Dracula and HMX Perky switches both cater to linear switch enthusiasts, they bring unique attributes to the table. The Dracula excels in delivering a smooth and quieter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize a serene environment. The Perky, with its vibrant sound and rapid actuation, appeals to those desiring a more dynamic and engaging feel. Ultimately, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience, and your choice may come down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, understanding the distinctions between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch can significantly enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences and use case. If you prioritize a lighter touch with a smooth and durable typing experience, the Dracula switch, with its 45-gram bottom out force and innovative POK material, is an excellent choice. It’s designed for those who appreciate a fluid keystroke thanks to its unique stem design that enhances airflow, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where speed and smoothness are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a satisfying and condensed typing experience, the HMX Perky perky linear switch would be more suited to you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams and its glittery nylon housings, it offers a neutral typing experience that many find deeply gratifying, particularly for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback without the harshness of a clicky switch. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards a lightweight, ultra-smooth sensation or a more balanced, satisfying pressure with each keystroke.
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