Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Cherry MX Purple RGB represent two distinct choices tailored to different typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3), lauded for its almost frictionless feel, offers a typing experience that is akin to gliding over ice—subdued and silky with a creamy texture that many typists find enchanting. This switch is ideal for users who prefer a smooth, linear response without the interruption of tactile feedback, making it perfect for rapid typing or gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB differentiates itself with a refined tactile bump, striking the right balance between feedback and resistance. Developed in collaboration with prominent keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch appeals to those who enjoy the reassuring sensation of a tactile cue, which can enhance typing accuracy and rhythm. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a seamless flow and smoothness, the MX Purple RGB offers a dynamic tactile experience that may delight enthusiasts looking for that extra layer of interactivity. 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches showcase distinct characteristics in their housing materials, primarily dictated by the types of plastics employed in their construction. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which results in a unique sound profile. Polycarbonate, recognized for its rigidity, creates a sharper and crisper sound, making it ideal for clear resonance. This quality is particularly beneficial for users looking to enhance their experience with RGB lighting since the material's translucency allows light to shine through effectively, creating visually striking effects. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches employ nylon for both their top and bottom housings. As a softer plastic, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, noted for its ability to absorb sound and produce a more rounded auditory experience.
When examining the differences in sound profiles, the materials significantly shape the overall tactile experience provided by both switches. The Aqua King (V3) produces a higher-pitched sound upon key release, which amplifies the clarity and enhances the responsiveness of each keystroke. This can be particularly satisfying for gamers or typists who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a bassier sound that feels softer and more subdued. The depth provided by the nylon housing can lead to a more cushioned experience, which some users may prefer for extended typing sessions. Here, the differences in material affect both the top-out and bottom-out sounds of each switch, varying the user experience based on individual preferences.
Despite their differing materials, the Aqua King (V3) and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches can provide similar results in terms of overall performance and aesthetic appeal, albeit through different auditory mediums. For instance, while the Aqua King achieves clarity and sharpness through its polycarbonate structure, the Cherry MX Purple achieves depth and warmth through nylon. The choice of housing material defines each switch's character, yet both switches can fulfill the basic functions of responsiveness and reliability. Ultimately, user preferences regarding sound profiles will lead them to choose one switch over another, emphasizing the importance of individual tactile and auditory experiences in keyboard selection.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch with its actuation force of 46 grams and bottom-out force of 62 grams to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom-out force, we can observe some interesting distinctions. The Aqua King (V3) is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple is slightly lighter, making it a more comfortable option for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. While the Aqua King provides a clear measurement for both actuation and bottom-out forces, the ambiguity surrounding the bottom-out force of the MX Purple RGB means we can’t draw direct comparisons on that aspect. However, since the actuation forces are relatively close, users might experience similar performance in terms of key triggering. In essence, those favoring a heavier switch may opt for the Aqua King (V3), while those seeking lighter resistance might lean towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Consequently, both switches will provide similar results in terms of key press feel and sensitivity, making them equally effective choices for those who prefer a consistent travel distance in their keyboard 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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 stands out with its subdued character. It produces a dampened sound upon actuation, offering a more subtle audio profile that is less intrusive than many other switches. This makes it a great choice for environments where quiet operation is appreciated. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch is not specified, which may leave its acoustic characteristics open to interpretation. However, it’s important to note that the final sound produced by any switch can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth and pleasurable typing experience. It is characterized by descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, all of which contribute to a sensation akin to gliding your fingers across a pristine surface. This results in a typing experience that feels effortless, minimizing resistance at all stages of key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a medium-strength tactile bump but lacks the detailed descriptions that would indicate its smoothness or overall typing experience. Because of this, the tactile feedback of the MX Purple RGB may offer a different kind of engagement, appealing to those who prefer feedback on actuation despite not being explicitly smooth.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB cater to different preferences among typists. The Aqua King (V3) is perfect for those seeking a smooth, subdued, and frictionless typing experience, while the MX Purple RGB, with its tactile feedback, would suit users who appreciate a more pronounced actuation. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a unique, ice-skating-like environment for typing, the MX Purple RGB offers refined tactile feedback that may not appeal to those seeking a similar smoothness. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on what typing characteristics you prioritize.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a smooth, creamy, and frictionless typing experience that feels luxurious and refined, the Aqua King (V3) is an excellent choice. This switch excels in providing a sublime sensation, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who require quick and uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback that enhances your typing with a satisfying bump, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the way to go. Its refined tactile experience provides clear feedback that can improve your typing accuracy, making it suitable for those who enjoy the sensation of each keystroke and appreciate that tactile confirmation in their typing experience. In summary, consider the Aqua King (V3) for a smooth, quick, and frictionless performance or the Cherry MX Purple RGB for a distinctive tactile feel that will enrich your overall typing enjoyment.
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