Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Everglide Aqua King and the Jwick Ginger Milk. The Aqua King is known for its unique characteristics of being subdued, creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. Typing with the Aqua King switch feels like gliding on freshly resurfaced ice, providing a truly magical typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch offers a soft and pastel aesthetic, perfectly reflecting its silky smooth and approachable push feel. With a muted and snappy sound profile, typing on the Ginger Milk switch is a delight. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision for your specific requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King and the Jwick Ginger Milk, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference. The Aqua King utilizes polycarbonate, which again creates a clear and resonant sound profile. This material's relatively stiffer nature plays a significant role in achieving these sound characteristics. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk employs nylon for its bottom housing. This classic switch housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In terms of the impact on typing experience, the bottom housing of each switch is crucial. The Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. As for the Ginger Milk, its nylon bottom housing influences the sound and feel when pressing down the key, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. Therefore, users can expect different sensations depending on the switch they choose, with the Aqua King offering a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and the Ginger Milk providing a deeper and fuller typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Aqua King has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Ginger Milk's 50 grams. This means that the Aqua King requires a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua King is 62 grams, while the Ginger Milk has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates that the Ginger Milk offers a slightly more substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more force to press all the way down.
For those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, the Aqua King would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation force allows for quicker and lighter keystrokes, promoting less fatigue over time. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Ginger Milk. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a sense of feedback and stability that some typists may find appealing.
Although there is a difference in the actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. Therefore, regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect similar overall results in terms of force required for typing. Ultimately, the decision between the Aqua King and the Ginger Milk will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience - a lighter touch or a more robust feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of length, the Aqua King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ginger Milk. The Aqua King's 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper key press experience, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk's 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive and quick key press, the Ginger Milk may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial key press, the Aqua King with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Regardless of which option you choose, both switches offer a satisfying and functional travel distance for a variety of typing or gaming needs.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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
The sound profile of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch can be described as subdued. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a dampened sound, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. The choice of board and keycaps can also affect the sound produced by the switches. Overall, both switches offer a relatively quiet typing experience, although the Aqua King may have a slightly more subdued sound than the Ginger Milk.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch offers a range of descriptors. It is described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. These descriptors all point towards a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Aqua King switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. The Ginger Milk switch, on the other hand, is described as buttery. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Aqua King may provide a slightly more varied and nuanced feel compared to the Ginger Milk.
Based on the available information, both switches offer great subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Aqua King provides a frictionless and polished feel, while also offering a subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk offers a silky and buttery feel, along with a neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preference, the Aqua King may be preferred by those looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience, while the Ginger Milk may appeal to those who prefer a slightly more uniform and approachable feel. Regardless of the choice, both switches are bound to provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. The Aqua King offers a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. Its best known for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. Your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys, creating a magical typing experience. In terms of sound, the Aqua King produces a subdued sound, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
On the other hand, the Ginger Milk features a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, leaning towards a medium-heavy feel. Its soft and pastel appearance reflects the typing experience with these switches - silky smooth and approachable. Typing on Ginger Milk switches provides a muted, snappy sound profile. The Ginger Milk is described as having a neutral sound, making it suitable for various use cases, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, or using them at home or work.
Ultimately, if you prioritize a seamless, frictionless typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys, the Aqua King is a great choice. Its subdued sound adds to its overall smoothness. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and pastel typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Ginger Milk may be more appealing. Its neutral sound makes it versatile for different typing preferences and environments.
When making your decision, consider your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetics. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Remember to also consider other factors such as your typing style and specific use cases to ensure you choose the switch that best suits your needs.