Akko Dracula vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable linear options are the Akko Dracula and the Bsun Tomcat, each offering unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula is celebrated for its use of specially engineered POK material in both the top case and stem, which not only enhances durability but also delivers an ultra-smooth typing experience. Additionally, its innovative design incorporates an extra stem hole that promotes improved airflow and smoothness during use. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat switches excel with their Ly stems, providing an exceptionally smooth keystroke, complemented by a resonant sound profile that adds a layer of tactile enjoyment to every tap. Both switches excel in their promise of a seamless typing experience, making them popular choices among enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Dracula Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Akko Dracula and Bsun Tomcat switches present a fascinating study in contrast, particularly with their top housings. The Dracula employs POK (polyketone), a material known for its exceptional smoothness and durability, boasting a coefficient of friction of 0.04, which offers a slightly smoother experience compared to other plastics like LY and significantly enhances the switches' longevity. In contrast, the Tomcat utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which produces a sharper, clearer sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both materials provide durability and contribute to the overall performance of the switches, they cater to different auditory and tactile experiences: the POK material excels in providing a smooth and clacky feedback, while polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and resonance, especially advantageous when RGB lighting is used in conjunction.

When we examine the bottom housings of both switches, a notable similarity emerges as both the Dracula and Tomcat feature nylon material. Nylon is revered for its sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that characterizes the typing experience for both switches. The nature of nylon as a softer plastic allows it to absorb more sound than its stiffer counterparts, leading to a warmer and rounder sound profile. Thus, while the top housings of the switches differ significantly in their audio output—with POK favoring smoothness and polycarbonate focusing on clarity—the use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a consistent auditory foundation, ensuring that both switches maintain a rich and satisfying sound signature during use.

Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials in the Dracula and Tomcat switches illustrates how different materials can complement one another to achieve a desirable switch performance. The POK top housing of the Dracula enriches the user experience with its slick feel, while the nylon bottom ensures a cushioned sound response. In contrast, the Tomcat's polycarbonate top sharpens the auditory feedback when the key is released, yet the nylon bottom retains the depth of sound synonymous with both designs. Despite their differences in top housing materials, both switches can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, converging on the strengths of nylon for their bottom housings to produce a harmonious blend of auditory sensations.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, notable differences emerge in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula features a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable option for users who prefer a lighter touch, especially during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat presents a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, which caters to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. This means that while the Dracula is the lighter option overall, the Tomcat offers a medium-light experience that may appeal to some users looking for a stronger push feel. Both switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, providing distinct tactile sensations tailored to varying preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it is evident that the Dracula offers a slightly longer travel distance at 3.8 mm, while the Tomcat has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm positions the Tomcat as the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can enhance performance. Conversely, the Dracula, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when pressing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth, highlighting their contrasting characteristics in this regard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Akko Dracula switch delivers a subtle and refined auditory profile, attributable to its innovative POK material which contributes to reduced vibration and resonance. This results in a typing experience that is pleasant without being overly loud or distracting. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat switch features a more resonant sound profile, which can create a richer acoustic experience during typing. The tonal quality of the Tomcat may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced audio feedback, adding to the overall satisfaction of typing.

Considering the feel of each switch, the Dracula excels in providing an ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its POK material and the introduction of an extra stem hole for improved airflow, which enhances the overall smoothness during actuation. Conversely, the Tomcat linear switch is characterized by its Ly stems, which also offer a super smooth typing experience. Both switches cater to users who seek a seamless feel when typing, making either a suitable option depending on personal preference.

In summary, both the Akko Dracula and Bsun Tomcat linear switches present their unique qualities that appeal to different user preferences. The Dracula is favored for its subtle sound and ultra-smooth feel driven by its material innovations, while the Tomcat stands out for its resonant sound and smoothness provided by its Ly stems. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their auditory and tactile preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, force, and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter key press and enjoy ultra-smooth typing experiences with a focus on durability, the Akko Dracula switch, with its 45-gram bottom-out force and innovative POK material, is an excellent choice. Additionally, the improved airflow from its unique stem design enhances smoothness, making it ideal for those who prioritize a soft touch and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer key press with a medium-light actuation force of 54 grams, the Bsun Tomcat switch would be better suited for you. Its Ly stems create a super smooth experience while providing a resonant sound profile, which can be gratifying for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In making your selection, consider whether you value a softer or firmer feel, as well as how important sound characteristics are to your typing experience. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose according to what feels best for you.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Dracula Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more