Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its linear switch that provides a frictionless typing experience, reminiscent of skating on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro boasts a fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing feel. While the Aqua King (V3) is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision on which switch is best for you will depend on your specific preferences and typing style; 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
46g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it an ideal material for switch housings.
Despite both keyboards using polycarbonate for their housing materials, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro may have differences in the overall typing experience due to how the qualities of the housing material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that even with the same housing material, variations in typing feel and sound can be observed between the two keyboards.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The stiffness and translucency of polycarbonate lend themselves well to creating a clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switch housings, especially when RGB lighting is involved. While there may be subtle differences in typing feel between the two keyboards, the overall use of polycarbonate ensures a consistent and pleasing typing experience for users of both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that they both fall under the category of medium weight switches. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. In terms of actuation force, the Aqua King is lighter by 2 grams, while the Crystal Pro requires slightly less force to bottom out by 2 grams. Both switches provide a balanced typing experience, suitable for individuals who prefer a moderate level of resistance. Whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile feel, both switches offer similar results due to their closely matched specifications. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for a slightly lighter actuation force or a slightly heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua King being on the longer side and the V3 Crystal Pro being slightly shorter. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Aqua King. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 it comes to sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) switches offer a subdued sound profile, providing a more dampened typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches are known for their chirpy sound, which adds a unique acoustic signature to your typing. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) switches are renowned for their creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance when pressing the keys. Conversely, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches provide a bouncy and polished sensation, giving a spring-like feedback with smooth and refined key travel. Both switches emphasize a fluid and enjoyable typing experience, perfect for those who value comfort and ease of use.
In conclusion, while the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch each have their unique sound and feel characteristics, they both ultimately prioritize delivering a smooth and pleasant typing experience. Whether you opt for the Aqua King's frictionless glide or the Crystal Pro's bouncy feedback, you can expect a high-quality switch that enhances your typing performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences. If you are looking for a switch that offers a frictionless and silky smooth typing experience, with a subdued sound profile, then the Aqua King (V3) might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bouncy and polished feel, accompanied by a chirpy sound signature, then the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal typing style and the specific characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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