Akko Dracula vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and KTT Rose present two intriguing options for users seeking a smooth and refined typing experience. The Akko Dracula switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material for both the top case and stem, promoting exceptional durability and a sleek feel. Its design features an extra stem hole for improved airflow, ensuring fluid keystrokes without interruption. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch captivates not just with its aesthetic appeal, but with its progressive spring mechanism that delivers a typing experience that feels substantial without being overly heavy. Users are treated to a unique audio experience, reminiscent of soft raindrops tapping away as they type. While both switches are linear in nature, appealing to those who favor a quiet and smooth actuation, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
63.5g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the KTT Rose switches, the differences in their top housings stand out prominently. The Dracula features a top housing constructed from polyketone (POK), renowned for its smooth action due to a slightly higher coefficient of friction (0.04) than that of LY (0.03). This smoothness is complemented by POK's durability, which boasts a wear resistance 14 times greater than POM and superior shock resistance compared to Nylon and POM. In contrast, the KTT Rose utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic not only enhances sound clarity, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency but also makes for a different tactile experience when typing. While both materials exhibit strength, POK edges out in terms of durability and friction, emphasizing the Dracula's focus on smoothness and resilience.
On the other hand, both the Dracula and the Rose use nylon for their bottom housings, which brings a uniformity to the sound profile produced by both switches. Nylon's characteristic softness allows it to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when keys are pressed. This shared material provides a consistent lower end tone that contributes to the overall acoustic signature of both switches. The difference in their overall sound profiles primarily stems from their contrasting top housing materials, delineating how impactful each housing is on the overall sound experience. Given that the bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon used in both switches creates a relatable auditory foundation despite the differences found in the top.
Ultimately, when using the Dracula and the Rose switches, you can expect nuanced but noticeable differences in sound and feel due to their top housing materials while maintaining a cohesive base sound profile from the nylon depths. The Dracula's POK top provides a unique, smooth, and clacky sound, while the Rose’s polycarbonate offers a sharper clarity and resonance. However, both switches achieve a rich and fulfilling typing experience courtesy of their nylon bottoms. This combination of varied top materials paired with a consistent base ensures that while the switches have distinct attributes, they both can deliver satisfying results tailored to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula switch features a light actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, resulting in less finger fatigue during extended use. Its bottom out force is 45 grams, which is also light and contributes to a softer typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch has an unknown actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This heavier force provides a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push and feedback while typing. Thus, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, suitable for users seeking comfort during long sessions, while the KTT Rose leans towards those who favor a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it's clear that they differ significantly. The Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the shorter of the two switches, while the Rose boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns more closely with the traditional preference for depth in keystrokes. Gamers often opt for shorter travel distances like that of the Dracula for the sake of faster response times, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Rose for its greater travel distance. Overall, if you're looking for responsiveness, the Akko Dracula would be the better choice due to its shorter travel, whereas the KTT Rose may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke 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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 it comes to sound, the Akko Dracula switch remains somewhat elusive, with no specific characteristics noted in the provided information. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound profile, offering a bassy and mellow tone akin to soft raindrops falling. This creates a pleasant auditory experience that is neither harsh nor distracting, making it suitable for various environments, whether for gaming or typing at work. The neutral aspect of the Rose switch also lends itself to versatility, accommodating a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned typists.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch is again not specifically described, but the KTT Rose switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of these switches ensures that the feel is gentle and approachable, suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. The polished finish further enhances this smoothness, allowing for effortless key travel and reduced friction, which can lead to a more enjoyable overall typing experience. For those seeking smoothness and a gentle touch, the Rose switch has a clear advantage.
In summary, while the Akko Dracula's subjective qualities remain undefined, the KTT Rose switch is notable for its low-pitched sound and mild, polished feel, making it approachable and versatile for many users. If the Dracula switch shares similar qualities to the Rose, you can expect a smooth and pleasant typing experience, but the specific sound profile and overall feel will need further exploration to draw any definitive conclusions.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, your choice should hinge on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience and prioritize ultra-smooth key presses with a focus on enhanced durability, the Akko Dracula is an ideal choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for fast typists or gamers seeking quick response times, while its innovative design promises a refined typing experience. Conversely, if you're someone who appreciates a slightly more substantial feel under your fingers, the KTT Rose with its 63.5-gram bottom-out force offers a mild yet polished typing experience that balances comfort with feedback. Additionally, the low-pitched and bassy sounds of the Rose switches provide an engaging auditory experience that many find satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will boil down to whether you value a lighter, smoother feel or one that emphasizes a little more weight and sound depth.
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