Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, one can immediately notice the distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is renowned for its smooth and frictionless feel, likened to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile offers a tactile typing experience that combines creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a symphony of touch. While the Aqua King (V3) is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Ice King Tactile is categorized as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished'. If you are looking for a linear switch that provides a buttery smooth typing experience, the Aqua King (V3) may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers a unique blend of smoothness and pronounced tactile feedback, the Ice King Tactile could be the perfect fit. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Durock Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Aqua King (V3) is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prioritize a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing in the Aqua King (V3) caters to those seeking a crisper and more precise typing sound, whereas the nylon top housing in the Ice King Tactile provides a more mellow and rounded typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) features a polycarbonate bottom housing that complements its top housing's characteristics, creating a cohesive and consistent typing sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to the overall sharper and crisper sound profile of the Aqua King (V3), providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a more tactile and defined sound when pressing down on keys. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. While the materials used in the bottom housing differ between the two switches, both the Aqua King (V3) and the Ice King Tactile aim to provide unique typing experiences with their distinct sound characteristics.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Ice King Tactile ultimately comes down to personal preference for typing sound profiles. The polycarbonate housing materials in the Aqua King (V3) create a sharper and crisper sound, appealing to users who prioritize a more defined and pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the nylon housing materials in the Ice King Tactile offer a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a more mellow and rounded typing sound. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience through unique sound profiles, providing users with a range of options to suit their individual preferences.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King (V3) requires 62 grams to bottom out, while the Ice King Tactile switch requires 68 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Aqua King (V3) for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ice King Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aqua King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ice King Tactile, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. However, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch are described as producing a subdued sound. This means that they offer a dampened sound when pressed, not completely silent but definitely more subtle compared to other switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aqua King (V3) is praised for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These qualities translate to a smooth, effortless, and refined feel while typing, making each keystroke feel like gliding on ice. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing experience. This results in a smooth and refined touch with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a unique and satisfying feel that strikes a balance between smoothness and tactility.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch provide exceptional typing experiences with their unique characteristics. While the Aqua King (V3) leans towards a more frictionless and buttery feel, the Ice King Tactile combines creamy smoothness with a distinctive tactile bump. Whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, both options offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences. However, if you enjoy smooth and refined switches, you can expect similar results from both the Aqua King (V3) linear and Ice King Tactile switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a truly frictionless typing experience reminiscent of gliding on ice, the Aqua King (V3) is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and desire a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile is the switch that will satisfy your tactile typing needs. Both switches offer subdued sound profiles and silky smooth typing experiences, making them excellent choices for enthusiasts seeking a premium keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your individual typing preferences and the type of typing experience you wish to achieve.
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