Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Kailh BCP offer distinct functionalities and experiences that cater to various typing preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is celebrated for its frictionless typing feel, akin to gliding across a smoothly polished ice rink, which results in a subdued yet creamy sensation that many users find remarkably luxurious. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a streamlined and smooth typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP reinterprets the classic Black Cherry Pie design with custom-molded switches that promise a unique auditory experience paired with an elastic and bouncy tactile feedback. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound profile and a playful typing rhythm, reminiscent of the switch's namesake. While both switches offer linear designs that enhance smooth action without tactile bumps, their textural and auditory qualities set them apart. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Kailh BCP switches present an interesting contrast in housing materials that significantly influences their acoustic profiles and tactile feedback. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, a material characterized by its stiffness. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, creating a crisper auditory experience for users. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting applications, allowing vibrant lighting effects to shine through. In contrast, the Kailh BCP opts for nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that's generally more subdued. This distinction between the two materials influences not only the sound but also the overall tactile experience of the switches.
When comparing the effects of the housing materials on sound profile, the differences between the polycarbonate of the Aqua King (V3) and the nylon of the Kailh BCP become pronounced. The Aqua King (V3) produces a clear and resonant sound, particularly noticeable when releasing a key due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate that enhances the top housing's contribution to the sound profile. Conversely, when a user types on the BCP, the rounder sound generated reflects the material’s ability to dampen higher frequencies, promoting a softer auditory experience. Thus, while both switches provide unique sound signatures, the Aqua King (V3) appeals to those who prefer a sharper, more articulate response, whereas the Kailh BCP caters to users seeking a more muted and smooth sound.
Another key aspect of the housing materials is their impact on the overall feel of the switches. The Aquaglide Aqua King’s polycarbonate construction leads to a more pronounced feedback upon bottoming out, enhancing the perception of keystrokes thanks to the material's rigidity. Conversely, the Kailh BCP's nylon housings soften the typing experience, creating a sensation that is less jarring and more rounded. Although both switches can deliver satisfying tactile feedback, the distinct properties of nylon and polycarbonate create diverse typing experiences. For those looking to customize their experience further, it is important to consider these material differences, as they define not only the sound but also the tactile sensations that each switch imparts, ultimately influencing choice based on personal preference and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, noticeable differences emerge. The Aqua King (V3) features a lighter actuation force at 46 grams, compared to the Kailh BCP's 52 grams, which makes the former generally more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces are quite similar, with the Aqua King at 62 grams and the BCP slightly firmer at 63.5 grams. This suggests that while the Aqua King allows for easier actuation, both switches provide a comparable experience when it comes to bottoming out, with the BCP offering a slightly firmer feel overall. Those who prefer a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use would likely gravitate toward the Aqua King, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh BCP.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Aqua King (V3) boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh BCP measures a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Aqua King (V3) provides a more pronounced depth when pressing down the key, appealing to those who prefer a satisfying and hearty key feel. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP's shorter travel distance might be more suited for gamers seeking quicker response times. Thus, if you prioritize rapid actuation and responsiveness, the Kailh BCP would be the better choice, while the Aqua King (V3) would be ideal for those valuing a more substantial input 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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) is characterized by a subdued audio profile, which produces a dampened sound when pressed. While not silent, it offers a subtle auditory experience that stands in contrast to many traditional switches, making it a good fit for environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. In comparison, while specific sound characteristics of the Kailh BCP linear switch are not detailed, the mention of its "signature poppy and clacky sound profile" suggests that it may be livelier and more pronounced than the Aqua King's muted tone. This difference indicates that users seeking a vibrant auditory feedback might lean towards the BCP, while those who prefer a more understated sound will likely favor the Aqua King.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King (V3) exhibits a creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These descriptors indicate a smoothness that minimizes resistance, allowing for effortless keystrokes akin to ice skating—providing a magical and enjoyable typing sensation. In contrast, information about the feel of the Kailh BCP linear switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare the tactile sensations they offer. Without knowing its particular attributes, it is hard to assess whether the BCP can provide a typing experience that matches the level of smoothness and finesse found in the Aqua King.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) stands out for its subdued sound profile and a wonderfully smooth, frictionless typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a quieter yet luxurious typing experience. Conversely, the Kailh BCP linear switch is likely to bring a more dynamic audio character, although its tactile qualities remain unclear. Ultimately, potential users can expect a relatively peaceful typing experience with the Aqua King and a more vibrant auditory feedback with the BCP, but the unique feel of the BCP still needs further exploration to fully grasp its capabilities.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes down to choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, your decision should hinge on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you seek an exceptionally smooth and frictionless experience, the Aqua King (V3) is your best bet, providing a creamy and polished typing sensation akin to gliding over ice. This switch, with its medium actuation force, allows for effortless keystrokes and a subdued sound signature, making it particularly well-suited for long typing sessions or environments where noise needs to be minimized. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a heavier feel with a touch of responsiveness, the Kailh BCP might be more your style, sporting a slightly stiffer actuation force and a unique elastic and bouncy character that adds an engaging pop with each keystroke. Its clacky sound adds an exciting auditory feedback that many typists love, making it ideal if you enjoy a more expressive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the smooth fluidity of the Aqua King (V3) or the lively and dynamic flair of the Kailh BCP.
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