Akko Dracula vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of various options. The Akko Dracula switch, classified as a linear switch, shines with its innovative POK material construction which not only ensures durability but also provides an ultra-smooth typing experience. Its design features an extra stem hole that enhances airflow and smoothness, making it a superb choice for those who favor a seamless keypress without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch, offers a delightful balance of performance characterized by a neutral sound signature that delivers the sought-after "thock" sound favored by many enthusiasts. With a super smooth keystroke and a dustproof stem that reduces wobble, the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to those who value a refined tactile sensation alongside a quieter, yet satisfying, typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
The Akko Dracula and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilize different top housing materials that significantly influence their overall sound and performance characteristics. The Dracula features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it provides a slight edge over the lower friction LY material, contributing to a clackier and smoother keystroke. The exceptional strength and shock resistance of POK also enhance the switch's longevity and performance, making it an excellent choice for users who value both responsiveness and durability in their typing experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes polycarbonate as its top housing material, which, while still sturdy, offers a different auditory signature. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, giving it a more resonant quality. Furthermore, its translucency lends itself well to RGB lighting aesthetics, appealing to gamers and typists who want to highlight their keyboard’s features.
On the other hand, both the Akko Dracula and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share the same material for their bottom housing: nylon. This commonality results in a deeper and fuller sound profile across both switches. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, allowing for a rounder tone during key presses. As a classic switch housing material, nylon effectively complements the overall experience of both switches, providing a consistent auditory feedback that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts appreciate. This shared bottom housing material helps establish a baseline for sound quality, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the differences in top housing.
When considering the performance of the Akko Dracula and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it becomes clear that the combination of distinct top housing materials and a common bottom housing contributes to a varied yet complementary typing experience. While the POK top of the Dracula heralds smoothness and durability, the polycarbonate top of the Sticky Rice (V2) excels in producing a crisper, brighter sound. However, since both switches utilize nylon for their bottoms, they will still deliver the deep, full sound unique to that material. This means that while they may sound different when typing due to their top housings—one being smooth and clacky versus the other being sharp and resonant—the foundational auditory quality remains rooted in their shared bottom housing. Thus, users can expect a nuanced experience, influenced by the specific characteristics of each switch's construction.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both options are considered light in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but they do have distinct differences. The Dracula switch features an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) requires a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. For users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming periods, the Akko Dracula is optimal. Meanwhile, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provides a bit more resistance, catering to those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches present light actuation forces, the Akko Dracula is distinctly lighter, offering an advantage for those looking for less strain during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find that the Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Sticky Rice (V2) the more responsive option, which can be particularly beneficial for gamers seeking quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing might lean towards the Akko Dracula due to its longer travel distance, which offers a deeper keypress experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in your typing experience.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 switch's characteristics are best described as smooth and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience without overpowering auditory feedback. This creates a pleasant atmosphere for users who prefer a quieter environment while typing. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch boasts a neutral sound signature that leans towards the coveted "thock" that many enthusiasts seek, delivering a rich acoustic experience without becoming too loud. While the sound profiles of these switches differ, it is essential to consider that the actual sound produced can vary based on the keyboard's construction and the material of the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula linear switch offers an ultra-smooth experience thanks to its POK material and innovative design, featuring an extra stem hole for improved airflow and smoothness, which promotes an exceptionally fluid keystroke. This characteristic is ideal for users who prioritize smoothness and a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) ensures a refined tactile sensation without sacrificing feel. Its dustproof stem reduces wobble, delivering a balanced typing experience that appeals to those who enjoy a controlled yet gratifying keystroke. Although both switches emphasize smoothness, the approach they take differs, with the Sticky Rice adding a subtle textural component to enhance the sensation.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Dracula offers a serene auditory experience with an ultra-smooth keystroke designed for an effortless typing experience, making it ideal for users who value subtlety. Conversely, the Sticky Rice captures the essence of a satisfying thock sound and balanced tactile feedback, appealing to enthusiasts searching for a refined and engaging sensation while typing. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can produce a gratifying experience, but aspects such as sound and feel highlight their unique qualities that cater to different types of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a lightweight and ultra-smooth typing experience with an emphasis on durability, the Akko Dracula switch is an excellent option. Its unique POK material and innovative design features deliver a responsive feel that can benefit gamers and typists who require speed and precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced typing experience with a satisfying "thock" sound, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) might be more to your liking. Its neutral sound signature and super-smooth keystrokes offer a refined tactile sensation, making it a great choice for those who value both auditory feedback and overall performance. Therefore, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the incredibly smooth action of the Dracula or the satisfying auditory and tactile response of the Sticky Rice (V2)—to determine which switch best aligns with your keyboard experience.
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