Akko Dracula vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and HC Studio Roselle both present compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts. The Akko Dracula stands out with its innovative use of POK material for both the top case and stem, promising ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability. Its design features an extra stem hole, significantly improving airflow, which may appeal to those seeking a blend of comfort and performance. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle boasts a unique material composition that delivers an incredibly smooth and ethereal typing experience, characterized by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature that adds an acoustic nuance to your interactions. While the Dracula is ideal for users prioritizing durability and airflow, the Roselle offers a frictionless feel that many typists may find irresistible. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and HC Studio Roselle switches, we see significant differences that contribute to their unique performance characteristics. The Akko Dracula utilizes a POK top housing, renowned for its excellent friction coefficient of 0.04, which enhances the smoothness of the switch. This material's durability surpasses that of traditional plastics, such as POM and Nylon; it offers superior wear resistance, contributing to a longer lifespan for the switch. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle employs a POM top housing. While POM also provides a smooth experience, it has a different sound profile, characterized as muted and deeper. This deviation in material leads to a distinct typing experience, with the Dracula’s POK contributing to a more clacky feel, while the Roselle’s POM delivers a softer, more subdued sound.
The bottom housing is another area where these two switches differ. The Akko Dracula features a Nylon bottom housing, which is well-known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This characteristic plays a significant role in the overall sound profile when a key is bottomed out. In comparison, the HC Studio Roselle boasts a POM bottom housing, which shares the same deep and muted sound profile as its top housing. Although both switches utilize softer plastics to achieve specific sound qualities, the impact of the material choice on the bottoming-out sound differs, with the Dracula's Nylon potentially providing a more resonant sound due to its sound-absorbing properties.
Despite these material differences, both the Akko Dracula and HC Studio Roselle can produce pleasing sound profiles, albeit through different means. The Dracula’s hybrid approach—using POK for the top and Nylon for the bottom—creates a balance that emphasizes smoothness and clackiness, while also benefiting from the sonic absorption of Nylon. Meanwhile, the Roselle, with its consistent use of POM in both top and bottom housings, ensures a more cohesive sound that leans towards the muted side. Thus, while the materials are distinct, both switches can yield satisfying performance, reflecting the nuanced impact of their respective housing choices on switches' overall feel and acoustics.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, we observe a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, whether at work or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle has both a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This increase in force can provide a more substantial and satisfying feel while typing for users who favor a bit more resistance. Overall, while both switches are designed for different user preferences, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, making it ideal for those seeking comfort during prolonged use, while the Roselle may appeal to those who appreciate a firmer tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Roselle offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Roselle will provide a quicker response time, making it a preferable choice for gamers who favor fast actuation. Conversely, the Dracula, with its longer travel distance, may be more appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing a key, thus providing a greater sense of depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus tactile feedback, with the Roselle offering the shorter distance and the Dracula the longer.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 sound profile of the Akko Dracula switch remains unspecified, so it’s challenging to draw direct comparisons regarding auditory characteristics. However, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is characterized by a subtle, low-pitched sound that possesses a bassy quality, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience during typing. This neutral sound signature makes the Roselle suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office setting, thereby offering more flexibility in use. The sound of any switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard plate material and the choice of keycaps, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of tactile feedback, the Akko Dracula switch offers an ultra-smooth typing experience, attributed to its POK material in the top case and stem and an additional stem hole for improved airflow. This design helps in enhancing its durability and overall feel. Meanwhile, the HC Studio Roselle switch excels with its frictionless mechanics, providing an effortlessly smooth typing experience while minimizing resistance during key presses. It offers a mild feel, making it approachable for users who may prefer a gentler typing experience. Both switches seem to prioritize smoothness, albeit with different material foundations and design approaches.
Combining the available information, both the Akko Dracula and HC Studio Roselle linear switches are positioned as excellent options for users seeking smooth typing experiences. While the Akko Dracula emphasizes durability and innovative design elements to enhance smoothness, the Roselle's inherent materials promise a frictionless feel. In terms of sound, the Roselle's low-pitched, bassy quality stands out, while the Dracula's sound profile remains ambiguous. Therefore, those looking for a smooth and fluid typing experience may find satisfaction in both switches, though they might prefer one over the other based on sound and material attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will play a crucial role. If you favor a light actuation force and seek an ultra-smooth typing experience with enhanced durability, the Akko Dracula switch may be your ideal choice. Its innovative design and lighter bottom-out force make it an excellent option for extended typing sessions or gaming, where quick key presses and reduced finger fatigue are beneficial. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier actuation force and enjoy a typing experience that feels frictionless and ethereal, the Roselle switch could be more suited to your needs. Its unique material blend not only provides an extraordinarily smooth feel but also emits a rich, low-pitched sound that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter touch or a more substantial feel, as well as the auditory qualities you desire in your mechanical keyboard.
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