Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 Purple offer unique typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth, frictionless feel, likened to gliding on a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that does not have any specific standout feature mentioned. The Aqua King (V3) is ideal for those who prefer a subdued, creamy typing experience, while the Dustproof Purple may appeal to those who enjoy 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for those who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, the top housings of these switches offer similar qualities.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Aqua King (V3) features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing in providing a consistent sound profile throughout typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Purple will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel. While both switches offer similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differing bottom housing materials provide distinct typing experiences. Those looking for a sharper and crisper sound may prefer the Aqua King (V3), while users seeking a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on typing feel and sound is crucial in selecting the right switch for your keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams, making the Aqua King better suited for those who prefer a lighter keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams, while the Dustproof Purple needs 65 grams, making the Dustproof Purple slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with lighter forces favored for long typing sessions and heavier forces preferred for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel for both switches. The similarity in travel distance ensures that typing on either switch will result in similar tactile feedback and key response. Overall, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Dustproof Purple are equal in this aspect, providing users with a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Purple 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, which produces a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. This can provide a more peaceful typing experience for those who prefer a quieter environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished feel. Users have reported that typing on these switches is akin to ice skating on freshly resurfaced ice, highlighting the smooth and effortless typing experience they offer. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is not described in the given information, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of feel between the two switches.
In conclusion, while the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch boasts a unique and smooth typing experience with subdued sound characteristics, we are unable to make a direct comparison to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch due to the lack of information regarding its sound and feel. However, if the Dustproof Purple switch offers similar characteristics to the Aqua King (V3) in terms of feel and sound, users can expect a typing experience that is both effortless and pleasant. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on their personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, you should opt for the Aqua King (V3) if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Aqua King (V3) offers a creamy, frictionless, and silky feel, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with medium-heavy bottom out force and are not concerned about sound, the Dustproof Purple might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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