Akko Dracula vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves deliberating between various options that cater to different preferences. The Akko Dracula switch stands out due to its innovative design, featuring POK material in its top case and stem, which not only provides a remarkably smooth typing experience but also enhances durability. Its extra stem hole promotes improved airflow, making it a fantastic option for those who prioritize longevity and performance. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a delightful alternative with its all-POM construction that brings an exceptional thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness to each keystroke. This switch excels in creating a tactile feedback that is both buttery and subdued, making it a great choice for users seeking a softer touch without sacrificing quality. Both switches have unique attributes that cater to different typing styles and 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Gateron Smoothie, notable distinctions emerge, particularly regarding their top housings. The Dracula utilizes a POK top housing, known for its excellent smoothness and durability due to a superior coefficient of friction (0.04). This friction level promotes a seamless typing experience, bolstered by its remarkable wear and shock resistance properties. Conversely, the Smoothie features a POM top housing, which, while also smooth and durable, does not achieve the same level of resistance as POK. Instead, POM offers a unique sound profile that resonates distinctly, contributing to the overall typing experience's auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches may feel smooth, the Dracula is engineered for enhanced durability and performance, whereas the Smoothie leans towards a pleasing sound aesthetic.
A closer examination of the bottom housings further highlights the unique traits each switch brings to the table. The Akko Dracula employs nylon for its bottom housing, providing a softer, more absorbent texture that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The natural properties of nylon allow for a significant reduction in harshness, leading to an overall muted and rounded auditory output. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing, which, like its top counterpart, also produces a deeper sound but maintains a unique resonance that distinguishes it from the nylon in the Dracula. Although both switches deliver richer sound profiles, the materials influence the overall perception: nylon offers warmth and absorption, while POM sustains clarity and definition.
When considering the combined effects of the different materials in each housing, it becomes clear that their qualities contribute diversely to the typing experience. With the Dracula’s POK top and nylon bottom, users can expect a smooth action with a rich, textured sound on key presses, resulting from the nylon's absorbent characteristics. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie provides a harmonious blend of smoothness and acoustic pleasure with its POM housing, which optimizes both bottom-out feel and auditory experience. Despite their differences, users may still find similarities between the switches; both are able to produce an enjoyable feel and sound, albeit through different material compositions. Ultimately, whether one opts for the Dracula or the Smoothie, each switch offers a unique interpretation of tactile feedback and sound resonance, appealing to varying preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their actuation forces, with the Dracula being the lighter option. The Akko Dracula features an actuation force of 35 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a lighter touch, which is beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, suggesting a more substantial feel when typing. However, the bottom-out force of the Smoothie is unknown, which means we cannot directly compare how firmly it feels when pressed all the way down. Since the Dracula has a bottom-out force of 45 grams, we know it will provide a definitive resistance when fully depressed. Users who prefer a lighter switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force might lean towards the Akko Dracula, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might find the Gateron Smoothie more suitable, assuming its bottom-out force is on the heavier side as well.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, the Akko Dracula measures at 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Dracula offers a slightly deeper feel compared to the Smoothie, which can provide a more satisfying experience for those who prefer a hearty depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, gamers seeking quicker response times may find the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Smoothie more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you favor a deeper, more pronounced key press, the Akko Dracula is the better option; if you lean towards responsiveness and speed, the Gateron Smoothie is the way to go.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is somewhat of an enigma, as its acoustic qualities remain unspecified. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch is characterized by a thocky sound signature, producing deep and rich tones akin to a satisfying "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. This low-pitched resonance combined with a subdued nature creates a pleasant auditory experience that can be both immersive and tactile. It's worth noting that while the Smoothie's sound profile is more clearly defined, the acoustics of any switch ultimately depend on additional factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the details for the Akko Dracula switch are similarly lacking, leaving its tactile characteristics open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. The smooth and fluid keystrokes associated with this switch create a seamless sensation when typing, making each keystroke feel effortless. This is likely due to its POM material and possibly factory lubricant, which not only enhances the overall smoothness but also minimizes resistance during use, making it a joy for typists seeking an easy, gliding action.
Overall, while specific qualities of the Akko Dracula linear switch remain uncharted, the Gateron Smoothie clearly shines with its thocky sound and creamy feel, making it ideal for users who favor both auditory and tactile satisfaction. If you appreciate smoothness and ease of use, you might lean towards the Smoothie for a satisfying typing experience. However, if you happen to try out the Dracula and discover similar qualities, you'll find that both options can provide a rewarding typing experience, just with their unique flavors contributing to your overall mechanical keyboard adventure.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, your choice should be guided by your personal preferences in typing feel and sound. If you favor a lightweight switch with a design focused on durability and ultra-smooth action, the Akko Dracula might be the better option for you. Its unique POK material and ergonomic features promise a typing experience that capitalizes on smoothness, making it ideal if you seek a more controlled keystroke without the extra noise. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a thocky sound signature and a richly satisfying typing experience, then the Gateron Smoothie may be the way to go. Its all-POM construction not only contributes to a silky-smooth feel but also produces a deeper, bass-heavy sound that many typists find rewarding. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you prioritize a lightweight, smooth keypress or a more textured, acoustically pleasant feel.
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