Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Cream Blue mechanical keyboard switches, it's all about the type of typing experience you're looking for. The Aqua King (V3) is a linear switch, boasting a typing feel that is often described as frictionless and silky smooth, akin to gliding effortlessly on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, the Cream Blue is a clicky switch with a more tactile bump and audible click during each keystroke. The Aqua King (V3) is perfect for those who prefer a subdued, creamy, and polished typing experience, while the Cream Blue is great for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback while typing. 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
Partial box
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
In comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Cream Blue, it is clear that they both use different materials for their housing components. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cream Blue features a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly influence the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the Aqua King (V3) and the Cream Blue have different housing materials, they both offer unique benefits in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate housing of the Aqua King (V3) lends itself to a clear and resonant sound, particularly suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the nylon housing of the Cream Blue generates a duller and rounder sound, creating a distinct typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches demonstrate how the selection of housing material can drastically impact the auditory and tactile feedback provided by a mechanical keyboard.
It is essential to note that the housing material of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing in switches like the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Cream Blue means that each component contributes differently to the sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This division showcases how the unique properties of materials like polycarbonate and nylon can shape the overall performance of a mechanical switch.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both fall under the medium weight category when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua King has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams while the Cream Blue needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Aqua King offering a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Cream Blue provides a more substantial feel that some users may find more satisfying for typing. Overall, both switches offer a medium weight feel, with the Cream Blue leaning towards the heavier side compared to the Aqua King.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, allowing for consistent key presses and tactile feedback. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is ideal for those who prefer a moderate amount of key travel while typing.
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 Cream Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for its subdued sound, offering a dampened and more subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, there is no specific information available for the sound characteristics of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard being used and the keycaps attached.
Moving on to the feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is highly praised for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and effortless typing sensation, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It's like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, creating a magical typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch stands out for its frictionless and smooth typing experience with a subdued sound profile, offering a unique and delightful typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch are not provided, it is likely that it may offer a distinct typing experience in terms of both sound and feel. To achieve similar results to the Aqua King (V3) linear switch, one may consider looking for switches that are described as creamy, frictionless, silky, or polished. It is important to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience that feels like gliding on ice with a subdued sound, then the Aqua King (V3) is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a clicky typing experience, the Cream Blue may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice should be based on the feel and sound profile that best suits your preferences. Happy typing!
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