Akko Dracula vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g both offer unique advantages tailored to different user preferences. The Akko Dracula switch is designed with innovative POK material for its top case and stem, resulting in ultra-smooth typing and impressive durability. This switch also features an extra stem hole that enhances airflow and typing fluidity. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for those who prioritize a serene typing experience, boasting an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g that allows for gentle keystrokes reminiscent of soft raindrops. While the Dracula appeals to users looking for durability and smoothness, the Silent Sakura caters to light typists seeking a quiet workspace. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, it is clear that the two switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which directly affects the overall typing experience. The Dracula employs a POK top housing, renowned for its smoothness and durability, with a coefficient of friction of 0.04. This aspect results in a noticeably smoother keypress, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g features nylon as its top housing material, which is softer and conducive to creating a deeper, more resonant sound profile. This fundamental difference in material choice means that while the Dracula may provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Silent Sakura offers a richer audio quality during typing, catering to individuals who prioritize sound in their keyboard experience.
Looking at the bottom housing, both the Dracula and the Silent Sakura employ nylon, which results in similarities in how these switches handle sound absorption. The use of nylon in the Akko Dracula's bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, just as it does for the Silent Sakura - 43g. This shared characteristic helps mitigate harsh sounds, making both switches capable of producing a pleasant auditory experience. However, the Silent Sakura brings another dimension into play with its polycarbonate bottom housing, which tends to create a clearer and crisper sound profile. This differentiation highlights how the combination of housing materials influences the overall sound signature of each keyboard, providing users with distinctly varied auditory experiences.
Ultimately, the varying materials of the top housing in both switches play a crucial role in determining their overall keyfeel and sound characteristics. POK’s superior durability and smoothness in the Dracula enhance the typing experience, while the nylon material in both switches excels at producing deeper tones. The contrast is further deepened by the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Silent Sakura - 43g, which introduces a crisper sound profile that is likely to appeal to users looking for clarity in their typing. While there are similarities that can yield comparable results in sound absorption, the nuanced differences reveal how material choices can lead to a uniquely tailored typing experience in each switch.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch exhibit some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences among users. The Akko Dracula has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the HMX Silent Sakura requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This indicates that the Dracula switch is lighter overall, particularly in terms of the actuation force, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura offers a more substantial feel with its heavier actuation force. Both switches are classified as light, but the Dracula's lower actuation force provides an easier keystroke, making it the better choice for those prioritizing speed and comfort.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed, the Dracula switch allows for a shorter key travel compared to the Silent Sakura. Gamers and those who favor quick response times may prefer the Dracula switch for its more responsive feel, while others who enjoy a deeper and more pronounced keystroke might find the Silent Sakura to be more to their liking due to its 4 mm travel distance. Overall, the Dracula provides a quicker, more agile typing experience, whereas the Silent Sakura delivers a more traditional and hearty keystroke sensation.
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 Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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
The sound profile of the Akko Dracula linear switch is not explicitly defined, which leaves room for exploration depending on the board and keycaps used. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is engineered to provide a notably quiet typing experience, akin to gentle raindrops, emphasizing a serene atmosphere ideal for quieter environments. Given that sound can be highly influenced by the choice of the keyboard and keycaps, if you prefer a more muted soundscape, the Silent Sakura will likely excel in that area, while the Dracula’s sound will remain variable.
When it comes to the feel, the Dracula switch benefits from its POK material and an innovative design featuring an extra stem hole, which enhances smoothness and typing experience. It is designed to deliver a highly responsive feedback with a smooth action, making it enjoyable for those who value fluid motion. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g's ultra-light bottom-out force is perfect for typists who prefer a lighter touch and less resistance during their keystrokes, resulting in a more effortless typing experience. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the notable difference in actuation weight could cater to different typing styles, making the Dracula more suited for those who appreciate a bit of heft, whereas the Silent Sakura might be ideal for those who favor a delicate touch.
In summary, both the Akko Dracula and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dracula excels in enhancing durability and smoothness with its innovative design, while the Silent Sakura provides a whisper-quiet typing experience with its lighter actuation force. If your preference lies in a serene environment and light typing, the Silent Sakura will undoubtedly satisfy, while the Dracula is tailored for those who enjoy a more substantial feel and a potentially varying sound profile. Depending on your typing style and sound preferences, either switch can offer a satisfying experience, yet each brings its own distinct characteristics to the table.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you favor a slightly heavier feel with a bottom-out force of 45 grams and appreciate the ultra-smooth typing experience that comes from innovative materials like POK, the Akko Dracula switch may be the more suitable option for your setup. Its design not only enhances durability but also improves airflow for an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you tend to type lightly and prefer a softer touch, you might gravitate towards the Silent Sakura - 43g. With its quieter operation reminiscent of rain, this switch is excellent for environments where silence is paramount, such as during late-night studying or in shared workspaces. Your decision should also consider how your typing style aligns with the tactile feedback these switches offer. In essence, if you’re looking for a more pronounced typing experience with a satisfying weight, go for the Akko Dracula; however, if you desire a whisper-quiet, lightweight switch that allows for serene typing, the Silent Sakura - 43g is the ideal choice for you.
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