Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch to the Durock Koala tactile switch, a clear distinction arises in their overall typing experiences. The Aqua King is renowned for its frictionless feel, akin to gliding effortlessly on ice. Its characteristics are described as subdued, creamy, and polished, providing a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala offers a balanced tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that doesn't overwhelm the keystroke. It is known for being polished, low-pitched, and accentuated, providing a satisfying tactile experience without being overly loud. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Koala feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature, the Koala's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Koala.
The differences in housing materials between the Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Koala extend beyond just the top and bottom housings. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the Koala stands out with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Aqua King's bottom housing lends itself to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel when typing. In contrast, the softer nylon material in the Koala's bottom housing absorbs sound, creating a rounder and less sharp typing sound overall.
Overall, the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Koala play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharper sound profile, the Koala's nylon bottom housing sets it apart with a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences in housing materials result in distinct typing experiences, with the Aqua King showcasing a crisper sound on key release and the Koala offering a rounder sound with a softer bottom-out feel.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Koala switch is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Aqua King's 62 grams. While the Aqua King provides a medium actuation force and bottom out force, the Koala offers a medium-heavy bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight preferences of the user. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Aqua King for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Koala for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock Koala tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that both offer the same keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) or the Durock Koala tactile switch, you can expect a similar keypress feel and travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 (V3) linear switch offers a subdued typing experience with a dampened sound when pressed, providing a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which is bass-heavy and mellow, suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to different preferences, but you can expect a pleasant typing experience with either option, depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) switch is renowned for its frictionless and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance or friction. In contrast, the Durock Koala switch provides a polished and accented feel, giving a refined and medium-tactile typing experience that is not overwhelming yet prominent. Both switches excel in offering a polished typing experience with varying levels of tactility, catering to users who appreciate different typing sensations. You can expect a premium typing feel with either switch, depending on your preference for smoother or more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch both offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Aqua Kings boast a frictionless and creamy feel, the Koalas provide a polished and accented tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a linear typing feel with subdued sound or a tactile experience with a low-pitched and prominent bump. Both switches offer high-quality performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users seeking premium mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience akin to gliding on ice, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a noticeable tactile bump without overwhelming resistance, the Durock Koala tactile switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the Aqua King (V3) is characterized by its creamy and polished feel, while the Koala offers a polished and accented typing experience. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prefer a medium or medium-heavy bottom out force when selecting between these two switches.
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