Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the KTT F2 both offer unique typing experiences for users. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its smooth and frictionless feel, akin to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. Its subdued and silky characteristics create a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT F2 stands out for its hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing feel without being too forceful. The F2 also offers a lightly textured tactile feedback with each keystroke. These distinct qualities make both switches appealing options for different preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the KTT F2 both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and clarity. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a resonant sound profile, making it an ideal choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. Despite their similarities in housing material, the Aqua King (V3) and the KTT F2 may have slight variations in sound characteristics due to other factors such as spring weight and stem design.
However, if the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities of the respective housing materials will be distinctively noticeable during key presses. The bottom housing, having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will influence the overall typing experience when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound produced when releasing a key, adding an additional layer of customization to the typing experience. This difference in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch can create a unique typing feel that caters to individual preferences.
In conclusion, while the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the KTT F2 share the use of polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings, the subtle differences in sound and feel may be attributed to other design elements within the switches. The choice of housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience, with polycarbonate offering a sharp, resonant sound profile that is further enhanced by its translucency for RGB lighting effects. Whether the housing materials are the same or different, keyboard enthusiasts can expect a premium typing experience from switches that prioritize sound quality and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua King requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the F2's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King is heavier at 62 grams while the F2 is lighter at 53 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the Aqua King leans towards a heavier typing experience overall. In terms of weight, the Aqua King would be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while the F2 would be suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Despite their differences in force requirements, both switches offer a decent balance between actuation and bottom out forces, providing a satisfactory typing experience for users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua King has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the F2's 3.5 mm. The Aqua King offers a more traditional key press feel with a slightly deeper travel distance, while the F2 provides a shallower and potentially quicker response time. Gamers may lean towards the F2 for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster input actions, while those looking for a more substantial key press sensation may prefer the Aqua King. Both switches offer their own benefits and drawbacks, catering to different preferences and needs in typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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) switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. Additionally, the F2 switch also has a subdued sound signature, similar to the Aqua King (V3), adding a quiet and refined element to typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Aqua King (V3) switch is described as offering a frictionless and creamy typing experience, similar to ice skating on a smooth surface, with effortless key presses and a silky sensation. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch provides a feathery and mild typing feel, with light actuation and gentle resistance, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, whether you prefer a smooth and polished feel or a light and gentle touch.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and KTT F2 switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua King (V3) offers a more subdued sound and a frictionless, creamy typing feel, the KTT F2 provides a neutral sound profile and a feathery, mild typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of comfort and performance. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a quieter sound profile or a lighter typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider the unique characteristics of each. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience akin to gliding on ice, then the Aqua King (V3) with its creamy, frictionless feel is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured keystrokes, along with a feathery and subtle typing feel, the KTT F2 switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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