Akko Dracula vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming experience, the Akko Dracula and the HMX Vintage Citrus present two compelling options, each with its own unique strengths. The Akko Dracula switch is celebrated for its use of POK material in its top case and stem, providing ultra-smooth typing and enhanced durability, alongside an innovative design that includes an extra stem hole for improved airflow and fluid keystrokes—great for those who value longevity and a polished feel in their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is explicitly designed for gamers, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, allowing for rapid-fire key presses that can give you the edge in competitive scenarios. It also boasts a bright, clacky sound profile and a remarkably smooth push, making it an exciting choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while they play. While both switches cater to different preferences and use cases—one focusing on a refined typing experience and the other aimed at gaming efficiency—it's essential to dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Akko Dracula and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches, the most notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Dracula switch employs a POK (polyketone) material for its top housing, which is known for its smoothness and high durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK allows for a swifter keystroke, contributing to a smooth and clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus utilizes a nylon top housing, a more traditional material that absorbs sound better due to its softer composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that resonates more gently compared to the sharper and more pronounced tones of the Dracula's POK top. While both materials contribute to solid sound characteristics, they offer differing tactile experiences based on their inherent properties.
The bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, tying the two designs together when it comes to sound production. Both the Dracula and Vintage Citrus benefit from nylon's softer nature, which helps in producing a more subdued, rounded sound. This shared bottom housing material amplifies the depth and warmth experienced when typing, as nylon effectively dampens vibrations and reduces harshness. Since bottom housing typically impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a similar auditory experience regardless of the distinct top materials chosen for each switch. Therefore, while the Dracula’s top housing heightens efficiency and clarity, both switches will demonstrate a rich, sonorous bottom sound.
In terms of performance, the different top housing materials will yield unique sensations during key presses. The Dracula’s POK material may allow for a tighter release and a more distinct sound upon key release due to its properties, enhancing the tactile feedback and creating a more dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus’s nylon top housing will likely produce a softer, more cushioned sound release, enhancing the gentle resonance in tandem with its nylon bottom. However, both switches will share similar overall qualities due to the nylon bottom, ensuring that despite the differences in the top housings, users will achieve a pleasing and somewhat uniform auditory experience when typing. In essence, the core sound characteristics will remain consistent, while the top housing materials will shape the nuances of feel and sound differently.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Dracula switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience over extended periods or for gaming sessions. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus features a heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. This means that if you find yourself gravitating towards lighter switches, the Dracula will be more suitable for you, while the Vintage Citrus will cater to those who prefer a firmer resistance. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these switches suggest that users should choose based on their individual preferences for typing weight and feedback.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch reveals a distinct difference: the Dracula features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the more shallow option, appealing to gamers or users seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Akko Dracula with its greater travel distance may provide a more traditional feel, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. Thus, if you favor responsiveness, the Vintage Citrus is the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced travel experience might lean towards 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 HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 creates a sound profile that is typically soft and muted, thanks to its POK material, which helps dampen audio. This can be great for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback of a switch. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch delivers a bright, clacky sound that resonates through each keystroke. This lively auditory feedback makes it particularly appealing for gamers who thrive on the energetic sound of their inputs, further enhancing the experience, especially during fast-paced gameplay.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Dracula shines with its ultra-smooth typing experience, crafted by the innovative design that incorporates an extra stem hole for improved airflow and overall smoothness. This results in a linear switch that feels effortless as you type. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus offers a noticeable advantage for gamers with its exceptionally low actuation force at just 1mm, allowing for rapid actuation with minimal effort. The smooth push feel means that even the slightest tap can register, making it perfect for quick or repetitive actions rather than sustained typing.
In summary, if you seek a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Akko Dracula switch excels with its muted sound and ultra-smooth feel. Conversely, if vibrant acoustics and rapid actuation are what you crave, the HMX Vintage Citrus will not disappoint with its bright sound and lightweight feel. Both switches provide distinct experiences based on their design and intended use, making them suitable for different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, selecting between these two will depend on whether you prioritize sound, actuation force, clarity, or smoothness in your keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch should be guided primarily by your preferences in typing experience and intended use. If you lean towards a lighter feel and prioritize ultra-smooth, durable typing with a somewhat quieter operation, the Akko Dracula is your best bet. Its innovative design featuring POK material not only enhances longevity but also provides a comfortable experience for both typists and casual gamers. On the other hand, if you're a gamer who thrives on speed and responsivity, you might prefer the HMX Vintage Citrus switch. Its low actuation force and rapid-fire capabilities make it perfect for fast-paced gaming scenarios, complemented by a bright, clacky sound that adds a certain flair to your gaming setup. In essence, choose the Akko Dracula for a smooth, durable typing experience suitable for everyday use, and opt for the HMX Vintage Citrus when you need that edge in gaming performance combined with an engaging auditory feedback.
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