Akko Dracula vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling options to consider are the Akko Dracula, a linear switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch. The Akko Dracula switch stands out due to its innovative use of POK material for the top case and stem, which not only ensures ultra-smooth typing but also enhances durability. Its unique design, featuring an extra stem hole for improved airflow, caters to enthusiasts seeking a seamless keystroke experience, ideal for gaming or typing extensively without distractions. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switches offer a different advantage with their gentle tactile feedback, characterized by a satisfying pop during actuation and a neutral sound signature. This makes them a great choice for users who appreciate the reassurance of tactile feedback while typing or gaming but prefer a quieter experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them suitable for various preferences and uses; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko Dracula and Jerrzi Violet switches present an intriguing comparison in terms of top housing materials, with the Dracula utilizing polyketone (POK) and the Violet incorporating polycarbonate. The POK material found in the Dracula's top housing is celebrated for its smoothness, durability, and wear resistance—exemplifying a cutting-edge choice for mechanical switches. With a low coefficient of friction, POK facilitated quick and responsive keystrokes that contribute to a clacky sound profile when the switch is activated. In contrast, the Violet's polycarbonate sheathing leads to a crisper, more resonant auditory experience. Due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature and translucent properties, it excels at projecting sound and showcasing RGB lighting, particularly in setups that highlight the switch design itself. While both materials aim to deliver high-quality performance, their unique attributes lead to different auditory results.
Examining the bottom housing of both switches, the Akko Dracula and Jerrzi Violet feature the same nylon material. This classic switch housing choice brings about a muted quality, absorbing sound and generating a fuller, deeper auditory feedback upon actuation. The soft nature of nylon ensures that the bottom-out sound is dulled, producing a tactile feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. Since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, their foundational sound profile remains consistent. This shared characteristic ensures that even though their top housings differ significantly in composition and resulting acoustic profiles, the overall user experience in terms of sound quality when bottoming out will bear similarities.
When considering the overall synthesis of these materials, the unique characteristics of each top housing complement the well-known qualities of nylon at the bottom. The Dracula's POK contributes to a quick tactile response and a lively sound on release, while the Violet’s polycarbonate produces clarity and brightness. However, when pressing down on either switch, the nylon bottom housing's softer absorption guarantees a deeper sound profile. This interplay brings forth a hybrid engaging experience: while the top housing defines the switch's release sound, the shared nylon base ensures both models retain a comfortable typing experience with a subdued bottoming-out feel, resulting in highly functional and gratifying switches suitable for various user preferences.
Weight
The Akko Dracula linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences. The Dracula switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more effortless typing experience, particularly during extended use. In contrast, the Violet switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a more substantial feel with each keystroke, but its bottom out force remains unknown. This lack of information on the Violet switch's bottom out force leaves a gap in comparison. As a result, tactile enthusiasts who enjoy a stronger push might gravitate toward the Violet, while those valuing lighter switches for prolonged sessions may favor the Dracula. Overall, the Dracula is the lighter option, whereas the Violet is the heavier one.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, there is a slight distinction between the two. The Dracula switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Violet switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that for users seeking a more responsive typing experience, the Violet would be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel, potentially allowing for quicker key presses. Conversely, those who appreciate a deeper press may find the Dracula switch more appealing, as its longer travel distance might offer a more substantial feel. Overall, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Dracula is the longer option, and the Violet provides a marginally shorter travel that caters to those prioritizing responsiveness.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it’s important to note that the sound profile of the Dracula is not specifically detailed in the information provided. However, the Violet is distinguished by its neutral sound signature, which strikes a balance conducive for various environments. This makes it versatile enough for both beginners and advanced users, suitable for use at home or in a professional setting. Factors such as the typing board and keycaps can also significantly influence sound characteristics; thus, while the Dracula’s auditory traits are unknown, you might find both switches lenient in terms of noise production, depending on their configurations.
In terms of feel, the Dracula offers ultra-smooth typing due to its POK material construction and innovative design, which includes an extra stem hole for enhanced airflow and smoothness. This design aims for a seamless keypress experience, contributing to a fluid and responsive feel across typing sessions. The Violet, being a gentle tactile switch, is characterized by its pleasingly poppy tactility. It offers a stepped tactile feedback, meaning you’ll experience a noticeable but mild bump during actuation compared to more hypertactile options. Users seeking a nuanced tactile sensation might favor the Violet for its two-stage feel, while those who prefer a smoother experience may gravitate towards the Dracula.
In conclusion, while the Akko Dracula linear switch excels in providing a smooth typing experience that is likely to enhance performance and comfort, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch stands out with its gentle tactile feedback and neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences between smoothness and tactile response, either switch can cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, those looking for a softer auditory experience will appreciate the Violet's neutrality, while fans of smooth actuation may find themselves drawn to the Dracula's innovative design. Both switches promise enjoyable typing experiences, albeit through different tactile and auditory lenses.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch largely hinges on your personal preferences and typing requirements. If you favor a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke and appreciate a lighter touch, the Akko Dracula is an excellent option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force, combined with its innovative POK material and airflow-enhanced design, makes it ideal for fast, fluid typing, whether you’re gaming or typing for long periods. This switch is perfect for those seeking an ultra-smooth experience without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you find value in tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience, the Jerrzi Violet switch could be the better choice for you. Its gentle, stepped tactile feel provides a satisfying bump during activation without being overly harsh, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced typists. Moreover, the neutral sound profile means you can use it comfortably in various environments without drawing too much attention. In the end, the right switch will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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