Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Black both offer a linear typing experience. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its smooth and frictionless feel, akin to gliding on ice. Its typing experience is described as subdued, creamy, silky, and polished. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black doesn't have any standout characteristics noted, making it a more neutral option. If you prefer a switch that promises a luxurious and seamless typing experience, the Aqua King (V3) 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
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Nylon
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
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Black both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. However, the Aqua King (V3) takes it a step further by also incorporating polycarbonate in its bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound profile throughout the switch.
On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black switches opt for a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3). Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Dustproof Black offering a more cushioned and muted sound compared to the Aqua King (V3) with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, providing similar sharp and crisp sound profiles, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Aqua King (V3) offers a consistent and clear sound profile throughout the switch, benefiting from polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing a muted and cushioned typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua King is the lighter option with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Dustproof Black is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Aqua King, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Dustproof Black. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Despite this similarity, the notable difference lies in other features such as actuation force, sound profile, and overall feel when typing. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aqua King or Dustproof Black will depend on your personal preferences for these other factors rather than the travel distance.
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 Dustproof Black 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 offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, information is not available regarding the sound qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Aqua King (V3) switch is described as providing a creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation, with minimal resistance and friction during keystrokes, creating a fluid and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, information is not available regarding the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black switch.
Overall, based on the available information, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch seems to offer a unique and exceptional typing experience with its smooth and frictionless feel, combined with a subdued sound profile. If you are seeking a switch with these qualities, the Aqua King (V3) may be a great option for you. Alternatively, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch are unknown, so it is advisable to gather more information or try out the switch personally to determine if it meets your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a frictionless, creamy, silky, or polished feel that allows your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with minimal resistance, then the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and have no specific preferences for typing feel, then the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences to ensure you have a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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