Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Holly offer contrasting experiences for users. The Aqua King is a linear switch known for its smooth and frictionless feel, akin to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. On the other hand, the Holly is a tactile switch with a distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and unique typing experience. While the Aqua King offers a subdued and creamy typing experience, the Holly caters to users seeking a more distinct and tactile feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Holly feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them both ideal choices for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for those who enjoy RGB lighting customization on their keyboards. Despite both keyboards sharing this similar feature, the differences in their bottom housing materials will likely result in distinct typing experiences.
In contrast to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3), the Dareu Holly utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the keyboard. This difference in bottom housing materials will impact the overall typing sound and feel of the Dareu Holly compared to the Aqua King (V3), with the Holly offering a more muffled and softer typing experience.
Overall, while both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Holly share similar polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housing materials create distinct typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) will likely provide a sharper and more resonant sound when bottoming out keys, while the Dareu Holly will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards will come down to personal preference in typing sound and feel, with users having the option to select a keyboard that best suits their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch's 50 grams. This means that the Aqua King requires less force to register a keystroke, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Aqua King also has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, which means that it provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Holly, whose bottom out force is unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation for longer typing sessions or a heavier feel for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing them, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience and feel when pressed, as they both have the same travel distance. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect to get consistent results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Overall, both the Aqua King (V3) and the Holly offer the same level of travel distance, providing users with a familiar 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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a more subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch presents a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, giving users a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a slight squeak and sharp, percussive sound. The choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for a quieter, more subdued sound versus a more lively and distinct typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King (V3) is renowned for its creamy, frictionless typing experience, akin to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. The switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance, providing a fluid and effortless typing journey. Conversely, information on the feel of the Dareu Holly tactile switch is not provided. If one desires a typing experience that feels like effortlessly melting into each keystroke with a silky sensation, the Aqua King (V3) is the ideal choice.
Considering the available information, it is apparent that the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch excels in delivering a subdued sound profile and a creamy, frictionless typing feel. Alternatively, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky characteristics, though details on its tactile feel are not provided. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can opt for the Aqua King (V3) for a quieter, smoother typing experience or the Holly for a more distinct and lively typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for those seeking different typing experiences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering which switch to choose between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, you should opt for the Aqua King if you prioritize a frictionless and smooth typing experience akin to gliding on ice. The Aqua King's subdued sound profile also lends itself well to a more subtle typing environment. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium actuation force, the Holly tactile switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a silky and frictionless typing feel or a distinctive sound profile that offers a balance between chirpy and clacky elements. Happy typing!
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