Akko Dracula vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often compare characteristics such as feel, sound, and durability. The Akko Dracula switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in both the top case and stem, designed to provide an ultra-smooth typing experience complemented by enhanced durability. This switch's unique construction also incorporates an extra stem hole, facilitating improved airflow and an even smoother keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll switch showcases a Y3 stem that delivers smooth travel while its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing creates a distinctive clacky sound, appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback in their typing. Although both switches fall into the linear category, catering to users who prefer a quiet and uninterrupted typing experience, their different materials and design features lead to unique performance experiences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Y3
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Bsun Ragdoll, we see a striking similarity in the materials chosen for their bottom housings. Both the Dracula and the Ragdoll feature nylon as their bottom housing material, renowned for its deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a rounder and more muted acoustic experience when typing on either switch. Since both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing, the tactile feedback and sound produced at bottom-out will be consistent across both models, delivering a similar auditory experience.
However, a critical distinction lies in the top housing materials: the Akko Dracula utilizes polyketone (POK), while the Bsun Ragdoll employs nylon. The POK material in the Dracula not only boasts a lower coefficient of friction than nylon, leading to smoother keystrokes, but it also exhibits exceptional durability, being approximately 14 times stronger in wear resistance than POM and with significantly better shock resistance compared to nylon. This choice of POK material contributes to a unique typing feel characterized by a slightly clacky sound and enhanced longevity. In contrast, the Ragdoll's nylon top housing, similar to its bottom housing, provides a softer typing experience that emphasizes warmth and depth but may lack the same durability and smoothness that POK offers.
In summary, while both the Akko Dracula and the Bsun Ragdoll present a harmonious audio experience thanks to their shared nylon bottom housings, they diverge in terms of their top housing materials. The net effect means that the Dracula is likely to provide a smooth and crisp tactile feedback due to the POK top, while the Ragdoll's nylon top will contribute to a more muted and softer keystroke experience. Together, these differences offer typists a choice between a more resonant and durable experience with the Dracula and a warmer, less harsh typing feel with the Ragdoll. In practical terms, this means that users seeking a more robust sound and feel will likely gravitate toward the Dracula, while those looking for a softer touch will prefer the Ragdoll.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their distinct typing experiences. The Dracula switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams with a bottom out force of 52 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel in their keystrokes. Therefore, while both switches provide a smooth linear response, the Dracula is the lighter option, promoting ease of use over extended periods, whereas the Ragdoll offers a firmer resistance that might be more satisfying for those who prefer a stronger typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making their performance in terms of travel feel quite similar. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect comparable results when it comes to keypress action, providing a uniform experience across these two options. This equivalence highlights that regardless of the brand, a 3.8 mm travel distance will deliver a consistent tactile response and feel when typing or gaming.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko Dracula linear switch is noted for its quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a muted typing experience. This characteristic aligns well with a smoother, more subdued auditory feedback during use. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll has a distinctively clacky sound profile, which adds a layer of audio satisfaction for users who enjoy a bit more acoustic feedback with their keystrokes. This difference in sound could be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard’s design and the choice of keycaps used, but generally, the Ragdoll will deliver a more pronounced sound while the Dracula remains quieter.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula switch excels with its ultra-smooth typing experience, attributed to the POK material used in its construction and the innovative design that includes an extra stem hole for better airflow. This results in a notably plush and almost gliding sensation with each keystroke. Meanwhile, the BSUN Ragdoll's Y3 stem is engineered for smooth travel, providing a reliable typing experience, but its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing may introduce slightly different tactile feedback that can feel a bit more textured compared to the Dracula. While both switches focus on delivering smoothness, the subtle differences in material and design can affect the overall typing feel.
Overall, both the Akko Dracula and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences among users. If you're looking for a quiet and ultra-smooth typing experience, the Dracula is a solid choice. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced sound and a smooth travel experience, the Ragdoll could be more appealing. Depending on your priorities, both switches can provide satisfying results but will deliver different experiences, especially in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter touch with an ultra-smooth feel, the Akko Dracula is your best bet, particularly if you value durability and a refined typing experience thanks to its POK material and innovative design features. It's ideal for long typing sessions where a softer bottom-out force can reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you favor a slightly more resistant switch that still offers smooth travel, the Bsun Ragdoll is a great choice, especially with its clacky sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory element to your keystrokes. The medium-light force of the Ragdoll can provide a bit more feedback, making it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile sensation while typing or gaming. In summary, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize a light, smooth experience or a slightly more robust and textured feedback from your switches.
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