Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Everglide Aqua King and the KTT Glimp, both of which are linear switches. The Aqua King is known for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. This switch offers a magical typing experience, with its subdued, creamy, and silky characteristics. On the other hand, the Glimp switch strikes a balance between substantial typing experience and resistance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking tactile feedback without overwhelming pressure. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King and the KTT Glimp share a commonality in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, allowing for the utilization of RGB lighting. However, while they may result in similar sound profiles, their aesthetic differences may be noteworthy.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aqua King employs polycarbonate, whereas the Glimp utilizes nylon. The choice of polycarbonate for the Aqua King's bottom housing maintains the desired clear and resonant sound profile associated with this material. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Glimp provides a different typing experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can be attributed to nylon's relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. Consequently, the bottom housing of each switch contributes distinct characteristics to the overall typing sensation.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall user experience, it is important to note how the top and bottom housings affect the sound when pressing and releasing a key. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact and bottom-out sound, are more prominent when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the sound experienced when releasing a key is influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while both the Aqua King and the Glimp may exhibit similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing, the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom of the switch may result in subtle variations in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Aqua King requires 46 grams of force, while the Glimp requires slightly less at 43 grams. This means that the Glimp may feel slightly lighter to press down initially. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Aqua King requires 62 grams of force, whereas the Glimp requires 53 grams. This indicates that the Aqua King has a heavier feel when fully pressed down compared to the Glimp.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Glimp, as it allows for longer typing periods and is suitable for both work and gaming. On the other hand, those who desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Aqua King's heavier bottom out force. It's worth mentioning that both switches fall into the medium range for actuation force, providing a balanced feel.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Glimp is slightly lighter than the Aqua King, the Aqua King requires more force to bottom out. This means that users seeking a lighter switch may prefer the Glimp, while those who enjoy a heavier and more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Aqua King. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King and the KTT Glimp linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which determines the amount of force and distance one feels when typing. The fact that both switches have the same travel distance suggests that they will offer similar typing experiences and feedback to users. Whether it is the Aqua King or the Glimp, you can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm, ensuring a smooth and consistent 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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 is best described as a subdued switch. This means that it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp is described as a clacky switch, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound of the Glimp switch is often described as crisp, bright, and percussive. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both switches share similar qualities. Both the Aqua King and the Glimp switches are described as creamy. This means that they offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, often attributed to lubrication applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials. Typing on a creamy switch provides a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Aqua King is also described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The Glimp switch is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel.
Based on the available information, the Everglide Aqua King and the KTT Glimp linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Aqua King provides a frictionless and silky typing experience, reminiscent of ice skating on freshly resurfaced ice. Its sound is described as subdued, offering a more subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Glimp switch strikes a balance between a substantial typing experience and tactile feedback. It provides a clacky sound profile that adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. The feel of both switches is described as creamy, ensuring a smooth and buttery typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a frictionless, ice skating-like typing feel, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a magical typing experience where your fingers simply glide effortlessly across the keys. They provide a creamy, silky sensation and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. In terms of sound, the Aqua King switch offers a more subdued and subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch that strikes a balance between typing experience and resistance, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a good option for you. These switches provide a satisfying and responsive typing feel with tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force. They have a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. In terms of feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy, silky sensation similar to gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King and KTT Glimp linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a frictionless typing experience and a more subdued sound, the Aqua King would be the better option. However, if you prefer a switch with a subtle tactile feedback and a clacky sound, the Glimp switch would be a suitable choice. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound profile to make an informed decision. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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