Akko Dracula vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Dracula and TTC Venus both provide unique characteristics tailored to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula is renowned for its innovative use of POK material in both the top case and stem, resulting in an ultra-smooth typing experience complemented by enhanced durability. Its design also features an additional stem hole for improved airflow, promoting further smoothness during use. On the other hand, the TTC Venus offers its own distinct advantages with a design that emphasizes a "Q-texture" feel, reminiscent of mochi, delivering a soft and springy typing experience. Its light actuation and muted sound signature create an atmosphere of subdued efficiency that many users appreciate. While both switches are linear, they cater to different tactile sensations and sound preferences, making the decision between them a matter of personal taste. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the TTC Venus, a clear distinction arises in the top housing components. The Dracula utilizes POK material, which is known for its remarkably low coefficient of friction of 0.04 and exceptional durability, surpassing POM in terms of wear resistance and shock absorption. This structure not only fosters a smooth and clacky typing experience but also ensures longevity. In contrast, the Venus features a POM top housing, contributing to a unique and pleasing sound profile characterized as deeper and more muted than that offered by POK. While both materials aim to create a satisfying typing experience, the POK's smoother texture and greater resilience can lead to more pronounced tactile feedback and responsiveness, making this an area where they notably differ.
The bottom housing materials of the two switches reveal more contrast, with the Dracula employing nylon while the Venus opts for polycarbonate. Nylon, as a softer plastic, is adept at absorbing sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder auditory experience, which many typists find appealing. This characteristic contrasts with the Venus's polycarbonate bottom housing, which, being stiffer, contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate's propensity for clarity in sound makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more resonant feedback during typing, especially when considering the potential for RGB lighting with a translucent material. Thus, while both bottom housings aim to enhance typing acoustics, their distinctive properties yield different sound signatures.
Ultimately, the differences in acoustics and responsiveness offered by the Dracula's and Venus's housing materials can create varied typing experiences. The POK and nylon combination in the Dracula leans towards a smoother, clackier feel complemented by a rounded sound signature, while the POM and polycarbonate pairing in the Venus emphasizes a deeper audio profile and a precise typing feedback. However, it's worth noting that the overall impression of each switch could still yield similar feelings of satisfaction if each switch is tuned effectively. The performance characteristics of each material will blend, impacting both sound and tactile experience with the effect of each type of housing material combining to create a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, distinct differences in actuation and bottom-out forces can be observed. The Akko Dracula features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it feel relatively effortless during typing and suitable for extended use. In contrast, the TTC Venus has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 52 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel that might be favored by users who prefer a bit more resistance during key presses. This difference in weight means that the Dracula is better suited for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions without straining their fingers, while the Venus appeals to those who enjoy a heavier switch for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, while both switches serve different user preferences, the Akko Dracula is the lighter option, making it ideal for prolonged use, whereas the TTC Venus offers a slightly heavier feel that may align better with the preference for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch feature identical travel distances of 3.8 mm, meaning users can expect similar tactile experiences when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This uniformity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a consistent feel, making them well-suited for those who prioritize keypress feedback in their typing or gaming experiences. Since their travel distances are the same, users can anticipate comparable results in terms of key actuation and overall performance.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 characteristics, the Akko Dracula switch remains undetermined, but it is important to note that sound quality can greatly vary depending on the keyboard build and keycaps used. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch is designed with a muted and low-pitched profile, providing a generally subdued typing experience. Its neutral tone is complemented by a thocky resonance, producing a rich and satisfying "thud" rather than a sharper or clackier sound, making it a suitable option for both home and office environments where noise might be a concern.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch does not have available details to compare; however, the TTC Venus switch is characterized by several subjective sensations. Users can expect a buttery and frictionless typing experience, which contributes to an overall sense of fluidity. The unique gummy feel when bottoming out adds an interesting element; instead of the typical hard impact, it offers a softer cushioning effect. Overall, the Venus switch provides a polished typing feel that can cater to both casual typists and more demanding users.
In conclusion, while the sound profile of the Akko Dracula switch remains unspecified, the TTC Venus is recognized for its muted and thocky sound, alongside an exceptionally smooth typing feel. This balance of sound and tactile experience positions the Venus as a versatile choice for various typing preferences, but the lack of information about the Dracula switch limits direct comparisons in these aspects. Depending on individual typing styles and preferences, both switches could potentially offer a satisfying mechanical experience, though the TTC Venus's known qualities may attract those seeking a quiet and smooth performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch with an ultra-smooth feel, the Akko Dracula might be the better option for you. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for easy and effortless key presses, perfect for those who enjoy a quick and nimble typing experience. Additionally, the POK material in its design enhances durability while providing a seamless keystroke, making it an excellent choice for fast typists or gamers who crave speed without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier key feel with a balance of smoothness and springiness, then the TTC Venus could be your ideal match. The 52-gram bottom-out force offers a medium-light resistance that can provide a satisfying tactile experience, while its unique internal design ensures a frictionless glide and a quiet, subdued sound profile. This makes the Venus a fantastic choice for those who type frequently in shared environments or prefer a quieter keyboard without compromising the joy of typing. Therefore, by understanding these characteristics, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing needs and enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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