Akko Dracula vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer their unique attributes that cater to different preferences, even though they are both linear switches. The Akko Dracula excels in creating an ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to its innovative POK material in both the top case and stem, as well as an extra stem hole for enhanced airflow and durability. This design makes it an appealing choice for users seeking reliability and consistent tactile feedback during extensive typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch showcases its distinctive character with the same POK material, but adds a buttery, creamy feel that reflects the essence of its namesake treat. This switch is particularly favored for its high-pitched and clacky sound signature that adds an engaging auditory element to typing while providing a unique texture. Ultimately, both switches have their merits depending on your specific typing needs and sensory 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

Akko Dracula Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

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Housing materials

The Akko Dracula and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches utilize contrasting materials for their respective top and bottom housings, leading to distinct acoustic and tactile characteristics. The Dracula features a POK top housing, utilizing polyketone, which is favored for its smoothness and durability. With a low coefficient of friction and remarkable wear and shock resistance, the POK top housing allows for a smooth keypress experience that produces a crisp and clacky sound. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream employs a special proprietary blend known as KTT for its top housing. While this blend is somewhat less specifically defined than POK, it is crafted for a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. Both utilize materials that promote strong auditory responses, but the methods of achieving these results differ, as the KTT blend presents an innovative approach rather than relying on a singular material property.

When examining the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches become more pronounced. The Dracula's bottom housing is made of Nylon, a traditional switch material that tends to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This allows the switch to absorb more sound, yielding a rounder acoustic experience. Conversely, the Vanilla Ice Cream's bottom housing is also constructed from POK material, similar to its top housing. As with the top housing, the POK bottom contributes to a smooth typing experience, but its acoustic contribution is likely less resonant compared to the nylon used in the Dracula. Thus, while both switches may deliver a satisfying sound when pressed, the overall sound profile can lean towards the deeper and fuller tones of the Dracula or the lighter and crisper notes of the Vanilla Ice Cream, largely influenced by the materials of their respective bottom housings.

Overall, both the Akko Dracula and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches present unique experiences dictated by their housing materials. The integration of POK in both switches' top housings aims to ensure a smooth performance, aligning them in terms of touch responsiveness. However, the diverging choices for the bottom housing play a pivotal role in defining their auditory characteristics. The nylon of the Dracula absorbs sound and results in a fuller experience, while the POK in the Vanilla Ice Cream maintains a more direct sound. This notable distinction showcases how the interaction of different materials within a switch can significantly affect the overall feel and sound profile, resulting in unique typing experiences despite a shared focus on a smooth and satisfying keypress.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we find differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Dracula has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This results in a more substantial typing experience with the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push feel. While both switches are considered light overall, the Dracula’s lower forces can make it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream's slightly heavier forces cater to users who enjoy a more tactile feedback during keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we find that the Dracula has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that the Dracula switch offers a deeper feel when pressed, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience. Conversely, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream may appeal to gamers or those who prioritize quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Therefore, if you lean towards a more responsive typing experience, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream would be the better choice, while the Akko Dracula would cater to those who favor a more traditional and pronounced key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Akko Dracula switch possesses unique characteristics that stand out in the linear switch category, though specifics weren't provided here. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is noted for its high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile. This means that when you engage the keys, you will experience a sharp, clean sound that is both immersive and resonant. The high-pitched nature of the Vanilla Ice Cream switch appeals to those looking for a crisp auditory feedback, setting it apart from more low-end acoustic profiles.

In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch delivers an ultra-smooth typing experience bolstered by its POK material and thoughtful design features aimed at enhancing durability. Meanwhile, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is celebrated for its buttery and creamy sensations, allowing for a silky-smooth transition with each keystroke. This fluidity offers a more effortless typing experience, making it easier to glide from key to key. Both switches prioritize a smooth feel, but the Vanilla Ice Cream takes it a step further with its creamy texture that enhances the tactile experience during typing.

Considering the overall comparisons, both switches provide qualitative benefits that can satisfy different preferences in a mechanical keyboard. The Akko Dracula is engineered for smoothness and durability, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream focuses on a delightful, creamy typing sensation partnered with an appealing sound profile. If you're aiming for a smooth typing experience regardless of your choice, both switches will deliver satisfying results, though the auditory character and tactile sensation will differ notably between the two.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when it comes to choosing between the Akko Dracula and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, your decision should ultimately depend on your specific preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize an ultra-smooth typing experience with a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams, the Akko Dracula, with its innovative POK construction and extra stem hole for enhanced airflow, could be your best bet. This design not only boosts durability but may also suit those who enjoy a gentler tactile feedback and less auditory distraction while typing. Conversely, if you are drawn to a smoother and more “creamy” keystroke paired with a higher-pitched, clacky sound, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream might be the right switch for you. With a bottom-out force of 48 grams and a sound profile described as high-pitched and resonant, these switches deliver an enjoyable auditory experience that’s ideal for those who appreciate a more vibrant keystroke sound—and let’s face it, who doesn't love the delightful concept of typing on a switch inspired by ice cream? By weighing these factors, you can confidently select the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience to match your personal typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Dracula Linear

$4.00

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more