Akko Dracula vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches stand out for their unique features and characteristics tailored for different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula switch is renowned for its innovative POK material in the top case and stem, which not only enhances durability but also contributes to an ultra-smooth typing experience. Its design includes an extra stem hole, promoting improved airflow and fluidity with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) prioritizes the sensation of typing with its Ly stems, which provide a remarkably smooth feel while delivering a resonant sound profile that can make typing more immersive and enjoyable. Both switches cater to users who prefer linear feedback, making them ideal choices for those who desire a quieter and more fluid typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), notable differences can be observed in their respective top housings. The Dracula employs polyketone (POK) for its top housing, providing a very smooth typing experience owing to its low coefficient of friction (0.04). This material is extremely durable, outperforming POM in terms of wear resistance and offering superior shock resistance compared to both Nylon and POM. As a result, the Dracula's POK top housing contributes to a unique, clacky feel while typing. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and provides a sharper, clearer sound profile due to its resonant properties. Polycarbonate’s translucency further enhances its aesthetic appeal, especially in setups utilizing RGB lighting, creating a vibrant visual experience alongside the auditory attributes of the switch.
On the other hand, both the Dracula and Tomcat (Heavy) share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is made of nylon. Nylon is known for its classic tonal qualities, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. This similarity suggests that the typing experience on both switches will feature a comparable sound and feel stemming from their nylon bottoms. As the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a uniform experience in this aspect regardless of the differences in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the unique combinations of top and bottom housing materials in each switch lead to distinct auditory and tactile experiences. With the Akko Dracula's POK top enhancing a clacky feel above a deep nylon base, and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) presenting a crisp sound atop its shared nylon bottom, users can achieve different results based on their preferences. Despite the contrasting attributes of POK and polycarbonate in the top housings, the dual use of nylon contributes a shared foundation that ensures both switches maintain a rich and rounded sound profile, ultimately influencing the overall performance and enjoyment of each switch.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch present a clear contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, showcasing different preferences for tactile feedback. The Dracula switch features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a lighter feel, perfect for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch offers a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. This difference means that while the Dracula is easier on the fingers for long use, the Tomcat provides a firmer tactile feedback that may be more satisfying for certain typists. Overall, if you're leaning towards a lighter touch, the Akko Dracula will likely suit your needs better, whereas if you appreciate a stronger, more pronounced keystroke, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) would be the preferable option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Dracula measures 3.8 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Dracula switch may provide a deeper feel, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a shorter travel distance, aligning well with the trend favored by gamers for quicker response times. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference: those seeking a more responsive experience might opt for the Tomcat (Heavy), while users who value a heartier sensation during their keystrokes may prefer the Dracula.
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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 Akko Dracula switch produces a sound that is characterized by its muted and subtle tones, which contribute to a less intrusive typing experience—ideal for those in shared workspaces or quiet environments. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch delivers a more resonant sound profile, which adds a satisfying auditory feedback to your keystrokes. While both switches provide pleasant sound experiences, the Dracula is more suited for those who prefer a quieter operation, while the Tomcat (Heavy) appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback, though it's important to note that the overall sound will also depend on the keyboard build and keycap material.
Regarding feel, the Akko Dracula switch excels in providing an ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its POK material and innovative design, which includes an extra stem hole for better airflow. This makes each keypress feel effortless and fluid. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch also focuses on delivering an exceptionally smooth experience, attributed to its Ly stems. Both switches therefore promise a delightful tactile sensation while typing; however, the Dracula's unique design features may offer an edge in terms of smoothness and consistency.
In conclusion, both the Akko Dracula and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches are designed to provide excellent typing experiences but cater to slightly different preferences. The Dracula leans towards a quieter, smoother performance, making it perfect for those sensitive to sound, while the Tomcat (Heavy) emphasizes a richer resonance that could appeal to users who appreciate auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference in terms of sound intensity and tactile smoothness, but both will deliver a satisfying linear switch experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch for faster typing, where you seek that smooth and effortless experience, the Akko Dracula is your best bet with its 45-gram bottom-out force. The POK material used in its construction ensures durability and a supremely smooth feel, making it ideal for long typing sessions. The extra stem hole enhancing airflow adds an interesting dimension, contributing to a delightful typing experience. Conversely, if you appreciate a bit more resistance while typing and prefer a medium-heavy feel, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch, with its 64-gram bottom-out force, might be more to your liking. The Ly stems provide a resonant sound profile that some users find aesthetically pleasing, and the heavier force can be more satisfying for those who like to feel the actuation points distinctly. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether you favor a lighter, smoother typing experience or a bit more tactile feedback and resistance while typing, so consider your preferences carefully when making your decision.
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