Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX EMO both offer unique typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless and smooth feel, reminiscent of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, the HMX EMO provides a lively and clacky typing experience with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force. While the Aqua King (V3) is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the EMO switch's categories are not provided. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
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
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX EMO both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aqua King (V3) has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the EMO features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the EMO provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX EMO significantly impacts the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The split in qualities between the bottom and top housing materials means that pressing down on the switch will reveal the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The Everglide Aqua King (V3) with its polycarbonate bottom housing will offer a different typing experience compared to the HMX EMO with its nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in the construction of mechanical switches.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches, such as the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX EMO, plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the difference in bottom housing materials results in unique sound characteristics. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3) contrasts with the softer nylon bottom housing of the EMO, showcasing how housing materials can influence the overall feel and sound of a mechanical switch. Whether aiming for a clear and resonant sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches is essential for achieving the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua King (V3) has a medium actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. The lighter actuation force of the EMO may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch and want to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Aqua King (V3) provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, making it ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Aqua King being slightly longer than the EMO. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the EMO for faster response times, while others may enjoy the deeper feel of the Aqua King. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 Aqua King (V3) is known for its subdued sound, producing a dampened and more subtle sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, information about the sound of the HMX EMO switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aqua King (V3) is praised for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance or friction. Users enjoy the sensation of gliding their fingers effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the HMX EMO switch.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a unique typing experience characterized by its smooth and frictionless feel. Although details about the sound and feel of the HMX EMO switch are not provided, it can be expected to deliver a lively and clacky typing feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. If you prefer a more subdued sound and a frictionless typing experience, the Aqua King (V3) may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a bouncy and satisfying typing experience, the HMX EMO switch could be a great option. Ultimately, the best switch for you depends on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In concluding, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, consider the force required to bottom out keys and the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force and a frictionless, ice-skating-like typing sensation, opt for the Aqua King (V3). On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a lively, clacky typing feel with exceptional smoothness, go for the HMX EMO. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so pick based on your personal preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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