Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Flaming Purple mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct features that set them apart. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, akin to gliding on ice. In contrast, the Flaming Purple from TTC stands out for its resonant sound and feathery nature, with a touch of bass in its sound signature. Each switch offers a unique typing experience - the Aqua King (V3) with its subdued and creamy feel, and the Flaming Purple with its low-pitched and easy-to-press keys. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Flaming Purple both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aqua King (V3) has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Flaming Purple features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Flaming Purple provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3).
The difference in bottom housing material between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Flaming Purple results in a variation in sound and feel when typing on the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3) contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Flaming Purple absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, both switches share the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the overall sound profile with its sharpness and clarity. Despite the unique qualities brought by the different bottom housings, both switches are likely to have a satisfying typing experience due to their shared top housing material.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Flaming Purple feature a clear polycarbonate top housing, making them suitable for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing not only enhances the visual appeal with its translucency but also contributes to the sound profile by creating a sharper and crisper sound. While the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, their shared top housing material ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua King (V3) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Flaming Purple's 42 grams, making the Aqua King (V3) better suited for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua King (V3) also requires more pressure at 62 grams compared to the Flaming Purple's 47 grams, indicating that the Aqua King (V3) provides a more substantial typing experience overall. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the TTC Flaming Purple, while those who prefer a heavier feel may lean towards the Everglide Aqua King (V3) for their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aqua King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Flaming Purple. The Aqua King's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a bit more depth when typing or gaming, while the Flaming Purple's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it popular among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a longer, more traditional feel with the Aqua King, or a slightly shorter, more responsive experience with the Flaming Purple.
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 TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as having a subdued sound profile, offering a more subtle and dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is characterized by a bassier undertone, providing a deeper and richer sound experience with a touch of a poppy flair to every keystroke. The Flaming Purple's sound signature veers towards the bassier end of the spectrum, adding an engaging auditory element to typing sessions. Depending on personal preference, users may appreciate the subdued and dampened sound of the Aqua King or the bassier and more resonant sound of the Flaming Purple.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience akin to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. The switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a silky sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes typing comfortable for extended sessions, whether for gaming, school, or work. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering smooth and low-impact typing feels, catering to different preferences based on the desired typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aqua King (V3) and TTC Flaming Purple linear switches offer unique sound profiles and typing feels to cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Aqua King provides a subdued sound with a creamy and frictionless typing feel, perfect for those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple delivers a bassier and resonant sound with a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel, ideal for users looking for a light and gentle typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches bring their own distinct qualities to enhance the overall typing experience for users. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either the Aqua King (V3) or the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch based on their preferred sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a creamy, frictionless typing experience akin to ice skating, the Aqua King (V3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force and a feathery, easy-to-press feel with a slightly bassier and resonant sound profile, the TTC Flaming Purple may be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to prioritize what factors matter most to you in a keyboard switch.
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