Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless typing experience, with a feel reminiscent of gliding across a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. The switch is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch does not have a specific standout characteristic, falling into a different category. If you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Aqua King (V3) may be the switch for you. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Blue Jade, it is evident that the Aqua King utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Blue Jade opts for nylon in both components. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for switches that prioritize clarity and resonance. On the other hand, nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a more subdued typing experience. Despite their differences, both materials offer unique acoustic properties that can enhance the overall typing experience.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing of the Aqua King results in a consistent sound profile throughout the key press, emphasizing clarity and sharpness. In contrast, the Blue Jade's nylon housing creates a more rounded sound profile, with a deeper tone that may be preferred by users seeking a more mellow typing sound. While the Aqua King's polycarbonate housing is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Blue Jade's nylon housing provides a classic aesthetic that appeals to traditional keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Blue Jade will depend on the individual's preferences for sound and feel. The polycarbonate housing of the Aqua King offers a crisper and more resonant typing experience, ideal for those who prioritize clarity and sharpness in their keyboard switches. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Blue Jade provides a deeper and fuller sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a more subdued typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have some key differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Blue Jade's 50 grams, making the Aqua King more sensitive to keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams while the Blue Jade needs 65 grams, making the Blue Jade slightly heavier in overall feel. These differences can impact typing experience, with the Aqua King providing a smoother and lighter touch, ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Blue Jade offers a more substantial and satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Since both switches have an equal travel distance, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience. So, whether you choose the Aqua King or the Blue Jade, you can enjoy a consistent travel distance when typing on a keyboard equipped with these switches.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, the Aqua King offers a more subdued sound profile, with a dampened noise when pressed. This creates a quieter typing experience compared to the Blue Jade. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Aqua King (V3) is praised for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These descriptors highlight the smooth and effortless key presses, giving users a satisfying typing sensation akin to gliding over keys. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is not available, which makes it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the descriptions provided for the Aqua King, it can be assumed that the Blue Jade may not offer the same level of smoothness and ease of typing.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch excels in providing a seamless and enjoyable typing experience with its frictionless and polished feel, accompanied by a subdued sound profile. While details on the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch are lacking, it is safe to assume that it may not offer the same level of smoothness and quietness as the Aqua King. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a smooth and frictionless typing feel akin to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink, then the Aqua King (V3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Blue Jade may be more suitable for you. Remember to factor in factors such as typing style, noise preference, and bottom out force when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you value most.
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