Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 45g
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g both offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is celebrated for its frictionless, silky feel that allows users to glide effortlessly across the keys, reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. Its subdued, creamy texture makes it an excellent choice for those who favor a smooth and polished typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g stands out with its light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a crispy and engaging acoustic feedback that keeps users alert and responsive. This switch caters to typists who appreciate the lively, high-pitched sound that accompanies each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences, they each bring something special to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Y3X
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g, we see a notable similarity in the composition of the top housings, as both switches utilize polycarbonate. This shared material leverages the properties of polycarbonate, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Such characteristics ensure that both switches will resonate clearly when utilized, making them particularly effective for users who appreciate the clarity of sound during typing. Furthermore, the translucence of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal when paired with compatible backlighting setups.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Aqua King (V3) and Chiikawa - 45g differ distinctly; while the Aqua King sports a polycarbonate material, the Chiikawa employs nylon. These materials bring differing acoustic properties to the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate bottom of the Aqua King continues the trend of clearer sound, resonating well with the top housing to maintain a consistent high-pitched profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Chiikawa contributes a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder tone. As a result, users will notice a contrast in the bottom-out feel and sound between the two switches.
Ultimately, this blend of materials results in different acoustic characteristics and tactile feedback for both switches. The Aqua King (V3) is likely to produce a brighter and more prevalent sound due to both its top and bottom housings being made of polycarbonate, while the Chiikawa - 45g's combination of polycarbonate and nylon fosters a diverse auditory experience, with the nylon contributing warmth and depth. Depending on the user's preference for sound profile and tactile feedback, both switches ultimately offer compelling choices that align with their respective housing materials. For a user aiming for a similar result across both models, understanding how these different components affect sound could lead to a deliberate choice of typing experience to suit their needs.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom-out force of 62 grams, while the Chiikawa - 45g features a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 51 grams. This indicates that the Aqua King (V3) requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke and also bottoms out with a heavier feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g is lighter overall, which may appeal to those who want to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, users will find the Aqua King (V3) to be the heavier option, while the Chiikawa - 45g offers a lighter touch for a softer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, we find that they differ significantly. The Aqua King (V3) features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for a more profound keystroke that offers a hearty feedback sensation. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to the growing trend favoring quicker response times, particularly appreciated by gamers. Therefore, if responsiveness and rapid execution are your priority, the Chiikawa would likely be the preferable option. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel during their typing or gaming sessions might find the Aqua King (V3) more satisfying. In essence, users seeking a deeper keystroke should gravitate towards the Aqua King, while those favoring speed and agility would benefit from the Chiikawa.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 45g for $3.29.
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 characteristics of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, a distinct contrast emerges. The Aqua King (V3) boasts a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened and subtle auditory experience upon key presses. This sound is not overly quiet but offers a more restrained expression compared to many other switches on the market. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g is known for its bright sound profile, characterized by a crisp, high-pitched tone that creates a more pronounced acoustic response. This inherent brightness enhances the typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. Although the Aqua King (V3) tends to be more muted, both switches will produce sound variations depending on the keyboard's design and choice of keycaps.
In terms of tactile feel, the Aqua King (V3) takes the lead with its remarkable qualities described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. Typing on these switches is an exceptionally smooth and buttery experience, akin to gliding one's fingers effortlessly across the keys. The superior lubrication and refined materials contribute to an incredibly fluid travel with minimal resistance, creating an almost magical sensation. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Chiikawa - 45g is unknown. However, given its light actuation force, one could infer that it provides a responsive and potentially lighter typing experience, though this would be without the same accolades for smoothness that the Aqua King (V3) has received.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switches present distinct auditory qualities, with the former offering a subdued sound and the latter boasting a bright tone. While the Aqua King (V3) excels in providing a luxurious, frictionless feel that sets it apart, the tactile qualities of the Chiikawa - 45g remain unspecified. Ultimately, enthusiasts may gravitate toward the Aqua King (V3) for its smoothness and refined auditory experience, while those who prefer a brighter sound might be inclined to explore the Chiikawa - 45g for its responsiveness. Each switch can contribute to a satisfying typing experience, albeit in unique ways, and personal preference will ultimately drive the choice between them.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and use cases. If you seek a typing experience that feels remarkably smooth and nearly frictionless, the Aqua King (V3) is an excellent choice, providing a creamy, silky, and polished feel that can enhance productivity during extended typing sessions. The medium bottom-out force of 62 grams strikes a balance that many find comfortable, making it suitable for those who appreciate tactile feedback without excessive resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more responsive feel, the Chiikawa - 45g might be the way to go. Its medium-light actuation force of 51 grams results in a snappier typing experience, complemented by a bright sound profile that can make your key presses feel lively and engaging. This switch is ideal for fast typists or gamers who value quick responses and agility. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a luxurious, smooth typing experience or a more dynamic, light touch.
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