Akko Dracula vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Akko Dracula and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Dracula and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi represent two alluring options in the realm of linear switches, each bringing unique attributes to the table. The Akko Dracula is celebrated for its innovative POK material composition, which not only enhances durability but also ensures ultra-smooth typing through an extra stem hole designed to improve airflow and overall smoothness. In contrast, the WS Morandi captivates users with its aesthetic appeal, featuring a light column that intensifies RGB visuals and a UPE stem that offers an airy, silky-smooth typing experience. Additionally, the Morandi's all-POM housings create a muted sound profile, contributing to a quieter typing environment. While both switches excel in their own right—one prioritizing durability and airflow while the other emphasizes aesthetics and a refined sound profile—choosing the right switch ultimately depends on personal preferences and usage scenarios. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Dracula and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, one finds notable differences in their top housing compositions. The Dracula's top housing is made from polyketone (POK), which boasts an impressively low coefficient of friction at 0.04, leading to a smoother tactile experience when typing. Its unparalleled durability is another standout feature, as it demonstrates wear resistance that is 14 times stronger than POM, alongside shock resistance surpassing both Nylon and POM. In contrast, the WS Morandi employs POM for its top housing, which, while not as resilient as POK, generates an enticingly unique sound profile on the deeper side. The POM material offers a smooth experience but lacks the resilience provided by the POK found in the Dracula, affecting their respective longevity and tactile feel.
The bottom housings of the two switches demonstrate a clearer alignment in their sound profiles, although they use different materials. The Akko Dracula features a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer plastic. This characteristic aids in absorbing sound, resulting in a rounder acoustic quality as compared to harder plastics. The WS Morandi employs a POM bottom housing, which similarly delivers a pleasing and muted sound profile, albeit slightly deeper than nylon. While both switches aim for a rich sound, it is evident that the Dracula's combination of nylon and POK creates a more dynamic auditory experience, capitalizing on nylon's sound-absorbing qualities alongside POK's smoothness.
Ultimately, the interplay between top and bottom housing materials in both switches leads to distinct tactile and auditory experiences. The differences in the Akko Dracula's use of POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom contribute to a bolder and more resilient performance, especially regarding typing feedback and sound when keying down and releasing. In contrast, the WS Morandi’s consistent use of POM in both the top and bottom housing results in a seamlessly muted and deeper sound profile. Although the materials vary, both switches can achieve desirable outcomes in their respective contexts, illustrating how thoughtful material selections can impact overall switch performance, sound resonance, and user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Dracula has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, allowing for prolonged typing sessions or gaming without excessive strain. In contrast, the WS Morandi features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a firmer push feel. This means that users who favor a lighter switch may find the Dracula more comfortable, while those looking for a heavier option should consider the WS Morandi. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one prefers lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces for their specific use case.
Travel distance
The Akko Dracula linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Dracula switch the longer option, providing a bit more depth during key presses, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Conversely, the WS Morandi, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who favor quicker response times and a snappier typing experience, often favored by gamers. As shorter travel distances are becoming more common, the Morandi may appeal to users seeking an enhanced tactile responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on whether you value a more pronounced key travel or prefer the agility of a shorter distance.
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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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, the Akko Dracula switch has not been explicitly detailed, leaving it somewhat ambiguous in comparison. However, the WS Morandi switch is characterized by a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky sound profile. This combination creates a deep, pleasant auditory experience that feels more bass-heavy and mellow compared to brighter, higher-pitched switches. The subdued nature of the Morandi means that, while it’s not completely silent, it provides a more refined auditory signature that won’t be overly intrusive in a quiet environment. The sound experience will also vary based on factors like the keyboard's build, plate material, and keycap choice, which can influence both switches.
In terms of feel, the Akko Dracula switch also lacks specific descriptors, making it challenging to ascertain its tactile characteristics directly. On the other hand, the WS Morandi offers a delightful typing experience described as buttery, creamy, and silky. These qualities suggest that the Morandi provides an incredibly smooth, nearly effortless keystroke while minimizing resistance. The silky sensation makes typing feel like gliding your fingers across the keys, enhancing the overall typing experience and contributing to reduced finger fatigue during extended use.
In summary, while the sound characteristics of the Akko Dracula remain uncertain, the WS Morandi linear switch offers a well-rounded auditory profile that is low-pitched, subdued, and thocky. On the feel front, the Dracula's qualities are unknown, whereas the Morandi excels with an incredibly smooth typing sensation. If you're seeking a keyboard experience that leans towards rich auditory pleasure with a highly enjoyable feel, the WS Morandi is a clear choice, though the uncharted qualities of the Dracula leave room for potential discovery. Both switches could provide a satisfying, smooth experience, but the Morandi's known qualities certainly set a high bar.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko Dracula linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and overall experience. If you favor a lighter touch and desire a switch that provides an ultra-smooth and durable typing experience, the Akko Dracula is an excellent choice, thanks to its 45-gram actuation force and innovative POK material that enhances comfort while typing. The airy improvements brought by its unique design allow for a swift and responsive feel that many users appreciate, especially during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and enjoy a deeper, more satisfying sound with a unique aesthetic flair, the WS Morandi switches can cater to your needs. With a heavier 60-gram actuation force, these switches deliver a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation, combined with a low-pitched, thocky sound that provides a rich auditory feedback. Their focus on RGB visibility through light columns adds additional visual appeal, making them a stylish choice. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what resonates most with your typing style, whether it’s the ultra-light, smooth experience of the Dracula switches or the richer, more tactile feedback of the WS Morandi.