Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless feel, akin to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple V3 switches are known for their higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, offering a bouncier typing experience. While the Aqua King (V3) is subdued and creamy, the Lavender Purple Pro is accented and snappy. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
20mm
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. However, the Aqua King (V3) also has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing. This results in a difference in sound profile, with the Aqua King (V3) likely having a more consistent and clear sound throughout the keystroke, while the Lavender Purple Pro may produce a deeper and fuller sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in their top housings, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. However, the Nylon bottom housing of the Lavender Purple Pro may not be as visually appealing as the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3). The use of different materials for the bottom housing can also affect the overall feel of typing on these switches, with the Aqua King (V3) likely offering a more consistent and slightly firmer typing experience compared to the potentially softer and more muted feel of the Lavender Purple Pro.
Ultimately, while both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of their sound and feel. The Aqua King (V3) may provide a crisper and more resonant typing experience, while the Lavender Purple Pro may offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of different housing materials highlights the importance of considering the overall tactile and auditory experience when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Aqua King also has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Aqua King will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience, requiring a bit more force to fully press down the keys, while the Lavender Purple Pro will offer a lighter and possibly more comfortable typing experience. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-light category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua King (V3) is the longer option between the two. The traditional travel distance is around 4 mm, so the Aqua King (V3) falls within that range. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lavender Purple Pro. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Aqua King (V3) for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
In terms of sound, the Aqua King (V3) offers a subdued switch that produces a dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch's sound profile is higher-pitched, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aqua King (V3) switch is characterized by its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless sensation when pressing the keys. This switch provides a silky and polished feel, allowing fingers to glide across the keys with ease. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch provides an accented and bouncy feel, giving a spring-like feedback and a lively sensation when typing. Additionally, it offers a snappy and polished typing experience, enhancing smoothness and reducing friction in key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in both sound and feel. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a frictionless and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch presents a higher-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, accented tactile feel. Depending on your preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches on your preferred keyboard setup will allow you to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, you should take into account your preferred typing experience. If you desire a smooth and frictionless typing feel reminiscent of ice skating, then the Aqua King (V3) is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and higher-pitched sound profile, then the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the type of typing experience that you find most enjoyable.
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