Akko Dracula vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, two intriguing options stand out: the Akko Dracula and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Akko Dracula, celebrated for its innovative use of POK material in both its top case and stem, is designed to provide ultra-smooth typing and remarkable durability. Its extra stem hole enhances airflow and contributes to the overall smoothness of keystrokes, making it a compelling choice for those who favor linear switches and a seamless experience. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is tailored for enthusiasts seeking maximum tactility; it delivers a sharp tactile bump and a satisfying clack with every keypress. This switch is characterized by its resonant, neutral, and snappy feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more responsive typing experience. While each switch brings its unique advantages, the decision ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for smoothness versus tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), key differences become evident, particularly in their top housings. The Akko Dracula utilizes POK material, which boasts a coefficient of friction of 0.04 and is known for its exceptional strength and wear resistance—14 times stronger than POM and 2.3 times shock-resistant compared to Nylon. This results in an exceptionally smooth and durable typing experience, contributing to a clacky sound profile that users often appreciate. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 employs POM for its top housing, known for producing deeper and more muted sound profiles. While both materials allow for a smooth keypress, the distinct qualities of the POK’s durability and resilience make it stand out in terms of longevity and performance under stress.
On the other hand, both switches feature notable similarities in their bottom housings. The Akko Dracula’s nylon housing is characterized by its ability to create a rich and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound effectively. The Durock POM T1, with its POM bottom housing, also achieves a distinct sound profile, described as deep and muted. Although they use different materials, each bottom housing contributes to a rich atmosphere during typing, showing that the type of plastic can shape the auditory experience without drastically altering the feel of the switches. However, the softer nature of nylon in the Dracula's bottom housing may provide a subtly rounder sound compared to the firmer POM of the Durock.
Overall, the differences in the top housing materials of the Akko Dracula and Durock POM T1 yield contrasting sound characteristics and feel, while their bottom housings each contribute to the overall auditory experience in ways that complement their respective tops. Enthusiasts can expect that while the Dracula will deliver a more resilient and responsive performance with a crisper sound when releasing keys, the Durock will provide a unique and pleasing sound, especially at the bottom-out phase. The combination of the POK top housing’s smoothness with the deep profile of nylon offers a unique advantage, whereas the POM T1's consistent POM construction creates an enjoyable typing experience across the board, leading to high user satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Akko Dracula has a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 does not specify an actuation force, but it features a considerably higher bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This indicates that while the Dracula switch may be more forgiving for extended use, the POM T1 offers a more substantial feel under the fingers, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger feedback during keystrokes. In this case, if one prefers a lighter typing experience, the Akko Dracula would be the better choice.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch differ in travel distance, with the Dracula measuring 3.8 mm and the POM T1 at 4 mm. This makes the Akko Dracula the shorter option, catering to users who favor a more responsive feel, especially appealing to gamers who prefer quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users find preferable for a fuller sensation during keypresses. Consequently, if you prioritize responsive actuation, the Akko Dracula would be the better fit, while those who enjoy a traditional and deeper typing experience may lean towards the Durock POM T1.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 it comes to sound, the Akko Dracula switch is known for its smooth auditory characteristics, likely resulting from its POK material that provides a refined acoustic profile. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) produces a resonant and sharp clack that adds an engaging auditory experience to typing. This higher-pitched sound profile is particularly satisfying for users who enjoy a distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke. The neutral sound of the POM T1 also makes it versatile, suitable for both work and leisure environments, whereas the Dracula's sound is more dependent on the specific setup, including the keyboard's construction and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch offers an experience of ultra-smoothness due to its innovative design, which emphasizes durability and airflow. This smoothness contrasts with the POM T1's pronounced tactile feedback, known for its sharp, crisp bump that delivers strong feedback with every press. The T1 is described as both snappy and invigorating, making the typing experience feel responsive and lively, while the medium tactility of the switch ensures that it is not overwhelming. This combination allows users to enjoy substantial yet not excessive feedback, fostering an engaging and dynamic typing experience that stands out against smoother alternatives.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches cater to different preferences, offering unique sound and feel characteristics. The Dracula is ideal for those seeking a smooth experience with nuanced acoustic feedback, while the POM T1 is perfect for enthusiasts who crave sharp tactility and a resonant sound. If you're looking for distinct auditory and tactile experiences, these switches will fulfill different aspects of your typing journey. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smooth typing with subtle sound or punchy tactility paired with a lively auditory experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and the experiences you seek while using your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a lighter actuation force combined with a super smooth and consistent feel, the Akko Dracula is an excellent choice. Its design caters to those who enjoy a seamless typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where swift key presses are crucial. On the other hand, if you are someone who values strong tactile feedback and enjoys a more pronounced and snappy response with each keystroke, the Durock POM T1 will likely be your go-to switch. Its medium-heavy actuation and sharp tactile bump deliver an invigorating typing experience, perfect for both typing and gaming. Additionally, if auditory feedback plays a significant role in your typing enjoyment, the resonant sound profile of the POM T1 can enhance your overall engagement with the keyboard. Ultimately, consider what aspects of a switch matter most to you—smoothness versus tactility, force requirements, and sound profiles—before making your decision.
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