Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) present two distinct experiences, both within the realm of linear switches. The Aqua King (V3) is celebrated for its remarkably frictionless typing feel, often evoking feelings of gliding effortlessly over a smooth surface—making it an ideal choice for those who crave a subdued but creamy tactile experience that enhances typing speed and comfort. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) boasts a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and delivers a bright, resonant sound with a super bouncy action that transforms every keystroke into a satisfying moment. Both switches cater to different preferences; the Aqua King (V3) is perfect for prolonged typing with its silky smoothness, while the Lotus (Heavy) appeals to those who enjoy a slightly more tactile and pronounced feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) showcase distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique auditory profiles and tactile responses. The Aqua King (V3) employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiff nature, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings, leading to a sound that is deeper and fuller. The softer characteristics of nylon allow for greater sound absorption, providing a rounder and more subdued auditory experience. As a result, users can expect a marked difference in the acoustic signature, with the Aqua King favoring a brighter sound and the Lotus producing a warmer, more muted tone.
When examining the performance of these switches, it becomes clear that the combination of materials in each model plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall typing experience. In the Aqua King (V3), the polycarbonate top housing primarily influences the sound released during the actuation and release of keys, while the bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, in the HMX Lotus (Heavy), the nylon top and bottom housings work together to create a cohesive, deep sound throughout the keystroke process. This contrast indicates that while both switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, they also demonstrate how variations in housing material can result in different effects on sound and feel during use.
Despite the differing materials used in the Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), users may still achieve a satisfying typing experience by strategically leveraging the qualities each material brings to the table. For those who appreciate the brighter pitch associated with polycarbonate and the warm, full tone of nylon, switching between these two models will provide valuable insights into preference and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal taste; users who prefer a clear, resonant sound signature may gravitate towards the Aqua King (V3), while those who enjoy a deeper, fuller experience might find the Lotus (Heavy) more appealing. Regardless of preference, both switches exemplify how different housing materials contribute to the engaging world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches, one can observe notable differences in actuation force, while their bottom out forces are quite similar. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams, which makes it the lighter option, suitable for those who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who favor a firmer push for a more substantial typing experience. However, both switches exhibit comparable bottom out forces, with the Aqua King at 62 grams and the Lotus at 62.5 grams, indicating that, despite the variation in actuation forces, users will experience similar feedback when pressing the switches all the way down. Overall, if you lean towards a lighter feel, the Aqua King (V3) would be the better choice, while the Lotus (Heavy) caters to those seeking a heavier touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we see a notable difference: the Aqua King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Lotus (Heavy) the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who prefer quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. On the other hand, the Aqua King’s 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, which some users may appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a snappier keystroke, the Lotus (Heavy) would be the better choice, whereas, for those who favor a more pronounced depth when typing, the Aqua King (V3) would be more suitable.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) is characterized as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While it is not entirely silent, this subtle sound signature offers a more muted auditory experience compared to many other switches on the market. This can be beneficial for environments where noise is a consideration, creating a typing experience that is less intrusive. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is noted for its bright and resonant sound. This kind of auditory feedback can be satisfying and may contribute to a more engaging typing experience, especially for those who enjoy pronounced auditory cues. However, the specific sound characteristics of the Lotus switches can also be influenced by the choice of switchboard and keycaps, leading to a variety of auditory experiences.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Aqua King (V3) switches excel in providing an exceptionally smooth experience, boasting descriptors like creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. These elements combine to offer a typing experience that feels effortless, akin to gliding over the keys as if ice skating on a perfectly prepared rink. This fluid travel minimizes resistance and friction, making each keystroke a delight. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is described as having a super bouncy feel thanks to its medium-heavy actuation weight of 62.5g. This added weight can offer a different sense of feedback, providing a tactile push that some may find more engaging or responsive compared to the Aqua King's seamless experience.
In summary, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) offers a unique typing experience characterized by a subdued sound and an exceptionally smooth, frictionless feel, ideal for users seeking a quiet and effortless keystroke. Meanwhile, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) provides a bright sound and a more bouncy feedback, appealing to those who enjoy an audible and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as each offers a distinct advantage that will cater to different types of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you value a smooth, frictionless feel that feels like gliding on ice, the Aqua King (V3) is the ideal switch for you. Its creamy and silky texture, combined with a subdued sound profile, makes it suitable for long typing sessions where comfort and noise reduction are priorities. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced and bouncy keystroke with a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) might be your go-to. Despite its marginally higher bottom-out force, this switch delivers a delightful tactile experience that can add a sense of excitement to your typing. In summary, choose the Aqua King (V3) for a serene, smooth typing experience, or opt for the Lotus (Heavy) if you desire an engaging feedback with a lively soundscape.
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