Akko Dracula vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and Akko V3 Silver Pro offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences and needs. The Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its use of POK material in the top case and stem, resulting in ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability. Its innovative design, which includes an extra stem hole for improved airflow, aims to provide a satisfying typing experience ideal for those who prioritize comfort and consistency in everyday use. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are specifically engineered for gamers, featuring a light actuation force and shortened travel distance which helps deliver swift and responsive keystrokes. The pleasing bassy sound produced by each press adds an auditory satisfaction that enhances the gaming experience. While the Dracula caters to typists looking for smoothness and durability, the V3 Silver Pro stands out for those needing precision and speed in competitive environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Akko Dracula and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch housings, the use of different materials for their top housings is notable. The Dracula features a POK top housing, which is known for its exceptionally smooth action and durability, thanks to a low coefficient of friction of 0.04. Its resistance to wear and shock surpasses that of POM and Nylon, making it an excellent choice for those seeking longevity in a switch. This unique composition not only contributes to a smooth and clacky feel when typing but also ensures the switch can endure prolonged use without degradation. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing—this material is characterized by its rigidity and ability to produce a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its suitability for RGB lighting applications, allowing for a striking visual aesthetic.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Akko Dracula and the V3 Silver Pro utilize nylon, a popular material among switch makers. This consistency results in a shared characteristic in terms of sound profile: both switches provide a deeper and fuller auditory experience, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs sound more effectively. This shared trait ensures that both switches deliver a warm and rich typing experience at the foundation level, making it a familiar ground for enthusiasts who prefer this sound signature. Thus, while the top housings diverge in composition and sound clarity, the bottom housing's use of nylon provides a significant degree of consistency between the two switches.
Ultimately, the materials utilized in the top and bottom housings dictate how the switches perform. A defining aspect of switch design is that the top housing's material will influence the sound produced during key release, while the bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite the contrasting properties of POK and polycarbonate in the top housings, both switches will provide a satisfying tactile experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing. As a result, users can expect to enjoy a complementary sound profile that marries the sharper tones from the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate with the warmer, fuller sounds stemming from the nylon bottom present in both models.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces remain the same. The Dracula switch has an actuation force of 35 grams, making it lighter and more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams, providing a bit more resistance that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches share a bottom out force of 45 grams, meaning both will exhibit the same resistance when pressed all the way down. Thus, if you're looking for a lighter switch for comfort during extended use, the Akko Dracula may be the better choice, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a heavier actuation force for those who enjoy a firmer feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences. The Akko Dracula boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that users who prefer a deeper press may appreciate the Akko Dracula for its greater travel distance, as it provides a more pronounced feel when typing. In contrast, gamers or those seeking quicker response times might favor the Akko V3 Silver Pro, given its reduced travel distance. The shorter actuation can indeed lead to faster key presses, although it may feel more abrupt to some users. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 offers a more muted auditory profile, likely due to its unique POK material which dampens harshness and contributes to a more refined sound signature. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is engineered for a crisp auditory experience, producing a high-pitched, sharp sound that can be perceived as more aggressive yet satisfying, particularly for gamers who prefer a pronounced keystroke feedback. This distinction makes the V3 Silver Pro better suited for those who enjoy the auditory sharpness of key presses, while the Dracula caters to users seeking a smoother, less intrusive sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch focuses on delivering a beautifully smooth typing experience attributed to its innovative design, which enhances airflow and minimizes friction. The smoothness renders typing effortless and enjoyable, giving it a luxurious quality as your fingers glide over the keys. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro features several advantageous tactile qualities, such as being easy to press, creamy, and feathery. This makes it exceptionally responsive, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The combination of these traits contributes to a generally softer and lighter typing experience that many gamers will appreciate, while also ensuring a polished and silky feel with each keystroke.
Overall, both the Akko Dracula and V3 Silver Pro cater to different user preferences—one prioritizing a subtle, smooth sound and feel while the other emphasizes a crisp auditory cue and a responsive typing experience. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on whether your focus is on a refined typing experience with a muted sound or an engaging auditory presence accompanied by effortless keystrokes. Regardless, both switches promise to enhance your typing or gaming experience in their unique ways, making either a valuable addition to your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a smooth, buttery typing experience with a sound profile that leans towards a warmer, bassy tone, the Akko Dracula is an excellent choice. Its innovative POK material enhances durability and provides a refined, polished feel that is particularly enjoyable for typing tasks, making it ideal for those who spend long hours at their keyboards. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for rapid keystrokes and a sound that is sharp and crisp, the Akko V3 Silver Pro could be your go-to option. With a focus on responsiveness and quick actuation, it's designed for scenarios where every millisecond counts, allowing for swift action during gaming. Additionally, its light actuation force and creamy texture reduce finger fatigue, enhancing your overall performance. Therefore, consider your primary usage—whether it’s typing, gaming, or a mix of both—to determine which switch better aligns with your preferences.
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