Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Daybreak mechanical keyboard switches, individuals are presented with two excellent options, both falling within the category of linear switches. The Aqua King (V3) is revered for its smooth, frictionless feel, likened to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak offers a heftier typing experience at 67g, along with a quiet operation ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the Aqua King (V3) boasts a subdued and creamy typing experience, the Daybreak provides a polished and low-pitched feel for users who prefer a more substantial touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference and usage requirements; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Daybreak both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is especially useful for switches utilizing RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing aesthetic. On the other hand, the Daybreak differs with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of sound profile and feel, the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the Aqua King (V3) and the Daybreak both have distinct characteristics in their top housings, the Daybreak's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua King may offer a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key, but the nylon bottom housing of the Daybreak contributes to a more satisfying bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Daybreak will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics with their housing materials, with the Aqua King featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housings for a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Daybreak utilizes a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for a deeper and fuller typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a more rounded sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua King (V3), as its forces are lower than the Daybreak's. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more robust typing feel might opt for the Daybreak due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, we can see that the Aqua King has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Daybreak's 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of a traditional travel distance, with the Aqua King being on the higher end and the Daybreak on the lower end, the slight difference may be noticeable to some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the Daybreak, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the 4 mm travel distance of the Aqua King. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is best described as having a subdued sound that offers a dampened and more subtle sound signature when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience, ideal for environments where minimizing noise is crucial. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience, but the Aqua King (V3) may have a slightly more subdued sound compared to the Daybreak, which has a more bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. This switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance and effortless key presses, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys seamlessly. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches have a polished feel, the Aqua King (V3) stands out for its creamy and silky typing experience that gives a unique sensation akin to ice skating on a smooth surface.
Overall, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Daybreak linear switches offer exceptional typing experiences with their unique qualities. If you prefer a switch that provides a more subdued sound and a frictionless typing feel, the Aqua King (V3) may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a switch with a heavier actuation force and a quieter operation, the Daybreak could be the preferred option. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, when using either switch, you can expect a premium typing experience that enhances your overall comfort and efficiency.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Daybreak linear switches, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Aqua King (V3) with its 62-gram bottom out force may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, the Daybreak with its 67-gram bottom out force may be more up your alley. Additionally, if you value a more subdued typing sound, the Aqua King (V3) is a great choice, while the Daybreak offers a quiet and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer a smooth and polished typing feel, but if you are seeking a more buttery and frictionless experience, the Aqua King (V3) would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing force, sound, and feel. Make your decision based on what best suits your typing style and environment.
Mentioned in this article
