Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Dream mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its unmatched smoothness, giving users a frictionless typing experience akin to gliding on ice. In contrast, the Dareu Dream switches are known for their light linear feel and affordability, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for quality without breaking the bank. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a creamy and polished typing experience, the Dream switches offer an easy-to-press and clacky feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Dream, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are designed to utilize RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Aqua King (V3) features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Dareu Dream opts for a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Dream contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
The differences in the bottom housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Dream highlight how material choice can impact the overall sound profile of a switch. While the Aqua King (V3) utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing to maintain a consistent and clear sound profile, the Dareu Dream's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. This showcases how the bottom housing material can impact the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. On the other hand, the similarities in the top housing material of both switches demonstrate how polycarbonate can create a uniform sharp and crisp sound profile across different switch types.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Dream showcases the impact of material composition on the sound profile of mechanical switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials results in varying sound experiences. The use of polycarbonate in the Aqua King (V3) bottom housing maintains clarity and resonance, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Dream offers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users choose the right switch for their preference in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Dream 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, providing a medium resistance level. In contrast, the Dareu Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter feel while typing, the Dareu Dream may be the preferred choice, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which some users may find more satisfying for a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar feeling of travel distance. The Aqua King (V3) and the Dream linear switches offer users a consistent tactile experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Aqua King (V3) or the Dareu Dream linear switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a subdued typing experience, with a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch provides a clacky sound with a sharp and snappy feel. Depending on your preference, the Aqua King (V3) will give you a quieter typing experience compared to the Dream switch.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch provides a creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and effortless typing sensation, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. If you prefer a smoother and more refined typing feel, the Aqua King (V3) may be the better choice for you.
Overall, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a quieter and more refined typing experience with its creamy and frictionless feel, the Dareu Dream switch offers a snappier and easier-to-press typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the Aqua King (V3) leaning towards a smoother and quieter feel, while the Dareu Dream switch focuses on affordability and easy activation. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Dareu Dream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you value a medium bottom out force and a frictionless, creamy typing experience reminiscent of gliding on ice, then the Aqua King (V3) would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with an easy-to-press feel and a more affordable price point, then the Dareu Dream linear switch might be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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