Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider the type of typing experience you prefer. Two popular options to explore are the Everglide Aqua King and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Aqua King is a linear switch that is best known for its frictionless feel. Typing on these switches is akin to effortlessly gliding across an ice skating rink. On the other hand, the Blueberry is a tactile switch with a sharp bump, perfect for those seeking a distinct typing feel. Additionally, the Blueberry produces a lower-than-average sound frequency that is deeper, but not overly "thocky." While these generalities can be helpful, it's crucial to delve deeper into the nuances of these switches to make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches differ in terms of their sound profile. The Aqua King utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the Aqua King's polycarbonate top housing is better suited for those who prefer a sharper and more defined sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Aqua King and Blueberry switches differ in terms of the sound they produce. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King contributes to its sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry creates a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. These differences in sound can be felt when pressing down on the switch, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystroke. Therefore, those who prioritize the tactile and audible feedback of the keystrokes may lean towards the Aqua King with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
However, it's important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent when pressed down, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Aqua King may excel in terms of its polycarbonate housing materials, both switches will offer users a distinct and satisfying typing experience. Whether one prefers the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the unique and deeper sound of POM, both switches provide options to cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is clear that there are notable differences between the two. The Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. In contrast, the Blueberry switch requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams, providing a slightly more tactile feedback. Similarly, the Aqua King has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, allowing for a smoother typing experience without excessive force. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. Overall, the Aqua King switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, while the Blueberry switch is heavier in both aspects. However, it is important to note that both switches provide a medium to heavy typing experience, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a more responsive keyboard.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar feel when pressed down, as they both offer the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Aqua King or the Blueberry, you can expect to experience a consistent and comfortable travel distance while 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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 Everglide Aqua King and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Aqua King provides a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle and dampened sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry produces a low-pitched and resonant sound. It has a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the chosen keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the typing feel, the Aqua King switch is best described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a fluid and effortless travel. The Aqua Kings feel like gliding your fingers across the keys, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. They also have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is characterized as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. These switches are super responsive, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. They offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Aqua King offers a subdued sound and a smooth, frictionless, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a low-pitched and resonant sound and a snappy, buttery, and textured typing feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose their preferred switch based on the desired sound and typing experience. Both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable use.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches offer a magical typing experience, as your fingers simply glide across the keys. Additionally, the Aqua King has a subdued sound profile, providing a more subtle and dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and a heavier bottom out force, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a lower-than-average sound frequency and a clean and sharp higher-pitched sound profile. The NovelKeys Blueberry switches provide a snappy and invigorating typing feel, making each keystroke feel more alive. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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