Akko Dracula vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its ultra-smooth typing feel, thanks to its innovative POK material and an integrated stem design with an additional hole for improved airflow. This results in enhanced durability and a seamless keystroke that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura distinguishes itself with a whisper-quiet operation resembling gentle rain, making it an excellent choice for those who work in shared or quiet environments. With a balanced actuation force of 53g, the Silent Sakura provides a light yet satisfying keystroke that appeals to typists seeking comfort during longer sessions. While both switches showcase linear characteristics, they cater to different user preferences—smoothness and durability versus quietness and tactile pleasure. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 - 53g, notable differences emerge that will influence the performance and sound profile of the switches. The Akko Dracula features a top housing made of POK material, known for its exceptional smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it offers a gliding typing experience, while its wear resistance is 14 times stronger than POM, and it surpasses Nylon in shock resistance by 2.3 times. In contrast, the Silent Sakura employs a nylon top housing, which is a classic material in keyboard switch design. Though it elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, it lacks the same robustness and friction smoothness as POK, thereby providing a different tactile experience while typing.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals further distinctions that affect their overall acoustic properties. The Dracula utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a sound that is duller and rounder due to its softer nature. This complements the top POK housing's smoother sensation, making for a balance of sound and typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura’s bottom housing is made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate's rigidity leads to more resonant acoustics, enhancing the switch's overall volume and clarity.
Ultimately, these varied materials will produce different auditory and tactile experiences, even if the switches have similar switch force ratings. The combination of the durable, smooth POK top with a softer nylon bottom in the Dracula results in a unique character that contrasts with the Silent Sakura's rigid polycarbonate bottom and softer nylon top. While the differences in materials create distinct profiles, they can still yield satisfactory results when preferences for sound and feel align with each user’s typing style. Users who favor a clacky, distinct sound might gravitate toward the Dracula, while those seeking a smoother and deeper typing experience may prefer the Silent Sakura.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch offer distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch that can facilitate longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura boasts a heavier actuation force of 45 grams along with a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. This means that for those seeking a softer experience, the Dracula is the better choice, while the heavier Sakura would suit those who enjoy a firmer keypress. Overall, the differences in forces indicate that the Dracula is the lighter switch, designed for a more effortless typing experience, whereas the Sakura provides a medium-light resistance that could deliver a more robust and satisfying tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we see that the Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Silent Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This places the Dracula as the shorter option and the Silent Sakura as the longer one. The shorter travel distance of the Dracula may offer faster response times, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quick key presses. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Silent Sakura may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper key press, as it allows for a more gradual engagement. Thus, depending on your preference for sensitivity versus depth, you can expect different typing experiences from these two switches.
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 - 53g 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Dracula linear switch is designed to excel in providing a subtle acoustic profile that enhances the typing experience without being overly loud or distracting. Its construction, utilizing POK material, contributes to a clean and refined sound when the keys are engaged, making it suitable for collaborative or quiet environments. The Silent Sakura - 53g, on the other hand, is specifically engineered for a whisper-quiet typing experience that mimics the delicate sound of raindrops. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize silence along with feedback, promoting a serene typing setting. Ultimately, while both switches can be described as relatively quiet, the Silent Sakura leans more towards extraordinary sound dampening.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Akko Dracula is characterized by its ultra-smooth action, thanks to its innovative design elements like the extra stem hole that improves airflow and overall smoothness during keystrokes. This careful engineering promotes a satisfying typing experience as fingers glide effortlessly from key to key. The Silent Sakura - 53g also offers a pleasant typing sensation, with its balanced 53g bottom-out force providing both lightness and an inviting feedback that appeals to typists looking for a responsive yet gentle touch. Both switches deliver a smooth linear feel, however, the Dracula may trail slightly behind the Sakura in terms of specific balance during actuation.
In summary, both the Akko Dracula and Silent Sakura - 53g linear switches cater to specific preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm, presenting unique advantages depending on user needs. The Dracula offers a smooth typing experience with a muted sound profile, making it versatile for different settings. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura provides a perfectly balanced keystroke and exemplary quietness, ensuring an enjoyable typing environment for those who prioritize silence. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on whether you lean towards smoothness and subtle audio or an ultra-quiet experience with balanced actuation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a lighter touch and seek a smooth and durable experience, the Akko Dracula switch is an excellent choice, particularly for prolonged typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Its novel POK material enhances the overall feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate a responsive and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, if your environment calls for tranquility and you desire a slightly heavier feel with a well-balanced bottom out force, the Silent Sakura - 53g is your go-to option. Its whisper-quiet design allows you to work or play without disturbing those around you while still providing that satisfying tactile feedback characteristic of linear switches. In summary, choose the Dracula for smooth faster actions and durability, while the Silent Sakura accommodates quieter moments and a bit more resistance. Ultimately, selecting the right switch is about aligning with your individual needs and preferences in your typing journey.
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