Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. The Aqua King (V3) switch is praised for its unique feel that is best described as frictionless, offering a typing experience reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch does not have a standout feature but is still a reliable choice. The Aqua King switch is classified as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', while the Crystal Brown switch does not have any specific categories associated with it. If you are looking for a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Aqua King switch may be the way to go. 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
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Crystal Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Crystal Brown's bottom housing is made of nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
Despite having different bottom housing materials, the Aqua King (V3) and the Crystal Brown switches share the same polycarbonate top housing. This means that they will produce a similar sharp and clear sound profile when pressed and released. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown will result in a deeper and fuller sound when typing compared to the Aqua King (V3). This difference in housing materials highlights how the material composition of a switch can significantly influence the overall typing experience and sound output.
In terms of sound production, the choice of housing material can play a crucial role in determining the characteristics of a switch. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Crystal Brown contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly when keys are released. On the other hand, the softer nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown results in a deeper and fuller sound when keys are pressed. This contrast showcases how different materials can impact the overall sound quality and tactile feedback of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see that both have fairly similar actuation forces. The Aqua King requires 46 grams to actuate, while the Crystal Brown requires 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Aqua King is heavier, requiring 62 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 55 grams. The Aqua King offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown is lighter, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches provide a medium actuation force, but the Aqua King is heavier when it comes to bottoming out, while the Crystal Brown is lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing needs.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be noted that both switches offer the same amount of key travel, providing a consistent typing experience for users. This means that whether you choose the Aqua King (V3) or the Crystal Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance. This similarity in travel distance makes them both viable options for those who prefer a standard key press feel.
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 Crystal Brown 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
The Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for its frictionless and smooth typing experience, offering a feeling akin to ice skating on freshly resurfaced ice. The sound produced by the Aqua King (V3) switch is described as subdued, providing a dampened sound when pressed, creating a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) switch is characterized as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound or feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. However, based on the qualities of the Aqua King (V3) switch, it is likely that the Crystal Brown switch will provide a tactile feedback with a moderate to high sound profile and a tactile bump when pressed.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch excels in providing a unique typing experience with its frictionless and smooth feel, paired with a subdued sound profile for a more subtle typing experience. The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, although lacking specific information, is expected to offer tactile feedback with a moderate to high sound profile. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience with distinct characteristics to suit different typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a typing experience that is described as creamy, frictionless, silky, or polished, then the Aqua King (V3) may be the switch for you. The Aqua King offers a smooth and effortless typing experience that can be likened to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is known for its tactile feedback, then the Crystal Brown might be the better option. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force required for key presses.
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