Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3), a linear switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Aqua King (V3) is celebrated for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, akin to gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. Described as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Polished', this switch offers a serene typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue lacks a specific standout feature but is classified as []. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a seamless and serene typing experience, the Dustproof Blue may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional clicky switch. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This common material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also enhances the aesthetics of the switches, especially if RGB lighting is incorporated. However, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) takes it a step further by also utilizing polycarbonate for the bottom housing, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile throughout the keystroke.
On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material, being softer than polycarbonate, absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material gives the Dustproof Blue a unique sound profile that is distinct from the Aqua King (V3). While both switches offer quality sound profiles, the choice between sharper, crisper sound (Aqua King) and deeper, fuller sound (Dustproof Blue) will ultimately come down to personal preference.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on a keyboard. While both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Blue utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinctive sound profiles. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound will depend on the specific qualities you value in a mechanical switch. Regardless of the differences, both switches offer quality performance and aesthetics, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the overall keyboard experience.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams, while the Aqua King also has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 65 grams. This means that the Aqua King will provide a slightly lighter typing experience overall. However, both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback with their medium to medium-heavy forces, catering to different preferences. Whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, it can be said that both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same amount of key travel. This means that whether you choose the Aqua King or the Dustproof Blue switch, you can expect similar results in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Overall, the length of travel distance is the same for both switches, providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience.
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 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
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is renowned for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, likened to gliding effortlessly on freshly resurfaced ice. This switch offers a creamy, silky, and polished feel, providing a buttery sensation with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel qualities. When it comes to sound, the Aqua King (V3) is characterized as producing a subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. However, without information on the sound of the Dustproof Blue switch, it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
In conclusion, if you prefer a switch with a smooth, frictionless, and creamy typing feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a specific sound experience or other tactile qualities in a switch, the information on the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is currently unavailable for direct comparison. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, so it is recommended to try out different switches to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering which switch to choose, you may want to opt for the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Aqua King (V3) provides a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, making it ideal for those who seek a silky and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not particularly concerned with sound or feel descriptors, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for typing sensation and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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