Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Gold. The Aqua King (V3) is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth and frictionless typing experience. Described as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', this switch offers a typing feel akin to gliding on ice. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch with a different tactile feel. While not known for any specific characteristics, this switch provides a satisfying click with each keystroke. If you prefer a smooth 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Gold both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. In contrast, the Gold switch features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a different typing experience.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housings brings distinct characteristics to the typing experience. The Everglide Aqua King (V3) with its polycarbonate bottom housing offers a balance of sharpness and resonance, while the Outemu Gold's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing is notable when bottoming out a key, influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, impacting the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Gold comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the polycarbonate top housings providing a sharp and crisp sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Gold switch delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and more rounded tone, understanding the impact of housing materials on the sound profile can help you make an informed decision when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch are relatively similar. The Aqua King (V3) has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Gold's 45 grams, but the bottom out forces of 62 grams and 60 grams respectively are very close as well. This means that both switches provide a medium level of resistance, making them suitable for a wide range of users. While some may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Outemu Gold for longer typing sessions, others may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Aqua King for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Outemu Gold switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Despite having the same travel distance, the two switches differ in their feel and sound. The Aqua King is a linear switch, providing a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, while the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, offering both a tactile bump and an audible click with each press. While the travel distance may be the same, the typing experience with each switch will vary based on personal preference for linear or clicky switches.
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 Gold 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 producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle and dampened sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. Users often liken it to floating effortlessly on a smooth surface, resulting in a magical and almost seamless typing sensation. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the typing feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch. It's essential to note that the feel of a switch is crucial in determining the overall typing experience and user satisfaction.
Taking into consideration the known subjective qualities of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the lack of information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it's clear that the Aqua King (V3) excels in providing a smooth, frictionless, and polished typing experience with a subdued sound profile. If you are looking for a switch that offers a buttery feel and a quieter typing sound, the Aqua King (V3) would be a fantastic choice. However, without information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. Overall, selecting a switch should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, then the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and are not concerned about sound or tactile feedback, then the Outemu Gold clicky switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what specific typing experience you are looking for.
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