Akko Dracula vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the Durock T1 offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula switch is a linear switch that emphasizes smoothness and durability, featuring POK material for its top case and stem, along with an innovative design that includes an extra stem hole to enhance airflow and overall typing fluidity. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers or typists who prioritize speed and a seamless keystroke experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch, providing a medium bump during actuation and a sound evocative of rain softly falling on a window. This gives it a more pronounced feedback suitable for those who enjoy a tactile acknowledgment with each key press, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more connected typing experience. Both switches cater to different needs—smoothness with the Akko Dracula and tactile satisfaction with the Durock T1. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Durock T1, notable differences and similarities emerge that significantly influence the typing experience. The Dracula employs a POK plastic for its top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction slightly higher than that found in LY, POK offers a smooth keypress experience, which is complemented by its impressive wear and shock resistance. In contrast, the Durock T1 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. While polycarbonate is also known for its durability, its stiffer nature results in a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This effectively means that while both switches may offer durability, the acoustic feedback and overall typing feel differ due to the inherent properties of the materials used.
Turning to the bottom housing of both switches, it is interesting to note that both the Akko Dracula and Durock T1 use nylon. This commonality in material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer composition effectively absorbs sound, providing a muted, rounder auditory experience that contrasts with the sharper sound produced by the top housing materials. The shared use of nylon means that regardless of the differences in top housing materials, the bottom housing will contribute a cohesive auditory quality to both switches, maintaining a consistent sound depth in both the Dracula and T1.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials plays a crucial role in defining the tactile and acoustic characteristics of both switches. While the Dracula’s POK and Durock T1's polycarbonate lend distinct sound profiles in the top housing – one being smooth and clacky while the other is crisp and resonant – the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches will produce a satisfying roundness to the overall sound. This synergistic relationship highlights how different housing materials can coexist to create unique yet complementary typing experiences, allowing users to choose a switch based on personal preferences in sound and tactility.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Akko Dracula features a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock T1 lacks a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating that it requires significantly more effort to bottom out than the Dracula. This difference suggests that the T1 provides a more substantial tactile experience that may appeal to users who favor a firmer keypress. Overall, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, while the Durock T1, with its medium-heavy characteristics, caters to those who enjoy a firmer push feel. These distinct forces illustrate the varied preferences in switch design and functionality, influencing user experience considerably.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, the Akko Dracula measures 3.8 mm, while the Durock T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm illustrates the variations in feel and responsiveness between the two switches. The shorter travel distance of the Akko Dracula may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation for faster response times, whereas the Durock T1's longer distance will likely feel more robust and provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, which some users prefer. Ultimately, if you're inclined towards a snappier experience, the Akko Dracula would be the ideal choice, while the Durock T1 caters to those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial keystroke.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 quieter experience, ideal for environments where noise matters, though specific sound descriptors were not provided. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch features a low-pitched sound, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone, complemented by a neutral sound profile that makes it versatile for various settings, from casual use to more professional environments. The acoustic characteristics of each switch will still depend on factors like the keyboard case and keycap materials, though the T1’s richer sound may be more appealing to those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback during their typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch is known for its ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its POK material and innovative design, resulting in minimal friction. Conversely, the Durock T1 presents a stepped tactile feel, marked by a medium bump during actuation that is comfortable and satisfying for typists. This switch offers an accented feedback that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle, providing just the right amount of tactile response for users who prefer an engaging typing experience. Additionally, the T1 is polished, enhancing its smoothness and reducing friction, which makes for a delightful typing journey.
In conclusion, while both the Akko Dracula and Durock T1 switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, the T1 stands out with its pronounced tactile feedback and auditory character. The Dracula switch focuses on smoothness and durability, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize fluid typing. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you value auditory feedback and a distinct tactile experience or favor a smoother, quieter typing solution. Each switch can provide a fulfilling typing experience, but they do cater to slightly different typist preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, your choice should align with your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter tactile feel that allows for rapid key presses and an ultra-smooth typing experience, the Akko Dracula is your best bet. This switch's 45 grams of bottom-out force makes it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing, while its POK material enhances durability and provides a satisfying response. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying feedback of a tactile bump and appreciate a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock T1 is worth considering. This switch's 67 grams of bottom-out force provides a comfortable resistance, ideal for typing sessions where you value precision over speed. The tactile bump, resembling raindrops, offers a unique auditory and sensory experience, making it perfect for both casual and serious typing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value speed and fluidity with the Dracula or seek a balanced tactile experience with the T1.
Mentioned in this article
