Akko Dracula vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and the Dareu Snow offer distinct features that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula is renowned for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to its use of POK material for both the top case and stem, alongside a unique design that includes an extra stem hole for enhanced airflow and smoothness. This switch is ideal for users seeking reliability and durability during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is characterized by its deeper sound signature, also utilizing POK material for both housing and stem. This switch excels in providing a "thocky" and bouncy feel, making it a great choice for those who prioritize acoustics and a tactile response in their typing experience. Both switches offer compelling advantages, but the best option ultimately hinges on individual 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Dareu Snow, one notable commonality is the use of POK material for the top housing. Both switches feature this polyketone material, which is celebrated for its low coefficient of friction (0.04), making it one of the smoothest options available. This smoothness contributes to the overall feel of the switch during operation, allowing users to experience a fluid typing experience regardless of which switch they are using. Both the Dracula and the Snow provide similar results in terms of tactile feedback and efficiency, thanks to the high durability of POK, which is 14 times stronger than POM.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Akko Dracula and the Dareu Snow also employs nylon, further aligning their performance characteristics. As a classic switch housing material, nylon is known for its softer texture that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys are pressed. This shared material choice impacts the auditory experience, making the actuation and bottom-out sounds richer and more rounded. Both switches thus create a desirable sound environment, captivating typists and gamers who favor a smoother keystroke experience.
Ultimately, while the Akko Dracula and Dareu Snow employ different housing materials (POK for the top and nylon for the bottom), the similarities in their construction lead to comparable performance outcomes. The POK material enhances the smoothness of action and durability for both switches, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to an enjoyable auditory quality. As a result, users can expect an overall experience that prioritizes both performance and sound, making either switch an excellent choice for those who prioritize typing feel and acoustics.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Dracula features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Dareu Snow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel when typing. This means that users of the Dracula switch may experience reduced fatigue during prolonged use, while those who opt for the Snow switch might enjoy a more tactile and resistant typing experience. Overall, if you are looking for a lighter switch, the Akko Dracula would be your best choice, whereas the Dareu Snow is better suited for those who appreciate a heavier key press.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that users pressing the Akko Dracula will experience a deeper push compared to the Dareu Snow, making the former more suited for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback during their typing or gaming experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Snow provides faster actuation, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quick responses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference: those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the Akko Dracula, while those favoring rapid input might prefer the Dareu Snow.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 remains unspecified, so it’s difficult to make a direct comparison to the Dareu Snow switch, which is noted for its thocky and low-pitched sound. The Snow switch delivers a deep, rich noise that is satisfying to typists who enjoy auditory feedback, featuring a soft “thud” when pressed and released. Additionally, the neutral sound signature allows it to serve well in a variety of settings, whether at home or in a professional environment, making it versatile for user preference.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko Dracula’s qualities are not specified, making it hard to draw direct comparisons with the Snow switch. The Dareu Snow switch, however, is characterized by its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that adds to the typing experience. This lively sensation enhances the overall interaction with the keyboard, making typing more dynamic and enjoyable. If the Dracula also incorporates a similarly appealing tactile response, users could anticipate a comparable engaging experience.
Overall, while the Akko Dracula linear switch details, particularly regarding its sound and feel, are lacking, the Dareu Snow switch offers a well-rounded performance with its deep sound and bouncy feel. Those who opt for either of these switches can expect smooth typing given their shared use of POK material in construction, but the subjective qualities, especially pertaining to sound and feel, remain a crucial factor for newcomers to consider when deciding on their ideal mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the Akko Dracula and Dareu Snow linear switches cater to different preferences, making them suitable for diverse typing experiences. If you lean towards a light typing experience with an ultra-smooth feel, the Akko Dracula switch is your go-to choice. It offers a softer actuation force of 45 grams, which can enhance your typing speed and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. Its innovative design with an extra stem hole for improved airflow provides an even smoother action, making it ideal for users who prioritize comfort and dexterity in their keyboard experience. In contrast, if you prefer a bit more resistance and a deeper, thocky sound signature while typing, the Dareu Snow linear switch, with its 60 grams bottom-out force, will suit you better. Its bouncy feel gives a satisfying rebound, making it great for users who enjoy a bit of tactile feedback without the clicky nuisance often associated with mechanical switches. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your personal preferences for key feel and sound profile, ensuring that your keyboard enhances your overall typing experience.
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