Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that they are both linear switches offering a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. The Aqua King (V3) stands out for its unique characteristics, being best known for its incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience that is akin to gliding on ice. With descriptors such as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', the Aqua King (V3) offers a polished feel to typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus does not have any standout features mentioned, making it more of a blank canvas for users seeking a straightforward linear 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
35g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profile but achieve it through different means. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Lotus opts for nylon in both the top and bottom housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both switches aim to enhance sound quality, they do so with contrasting characteristics of the housing materials.
Despite their differences, the Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Lotus share the commonality of featuring polycarbonate and nylon housing respectively. As a result, users can expect a similar level of quality in terms of sound profile enhancement from both switches. However, the specific qualities and nuances of the sound produced will still vary based on the unique properties of the housing materials used. Whether it be the sharp and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Aqua King (V3) or the deep and round sound of nylon in the Lotus, each switch offers its own distinct auditory experience.
In terms of design and aesthetics, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) with its clear polycarbonate housing stands out for its translucency and compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus's nylon housing offers a classic and timeless look that may appeal to those looking for a more traditional appearance. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials depends on individual preferences for sound profile, feel, and visual presentation in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua King has a medium actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Aqua King requires a slightly heavier touch to register a keystroke and reach full bottom out compared to the Lotus. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for longer periods, while the Aqua King may be more suitable for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Aqua King has a longer travel distance compared to the Lotus. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lotus due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more robust and deep key press may lean towards the Aqua King. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Aqua King providing a deeper key press sensation compared to the Lotus. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Lotus 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 praised for its frictionless and creamy feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience akin to ice skating on freshly resurfaced ice. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch.
When it comes to sound, the Aqua King (V3) is noted for producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. However, there is no information provided about the sound characteristics of the Outemu Lotus linear switch. It is important to consider that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch stands out for its smooth and frictionless feel, as well as its subdued sound profile, providing a unique typing experience. While specific details about the Outemu Lotus linear switch are not available, based on the information provided, it is likely that users can expect a similar level of smoothness and subtlety in sound when compared to the Aqua King (V3). Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Outemu Lotus linear switch, your decision might come down to your preference for typing feel and sound. If you value a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience with a subdued sound, then the Aqua King (V3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are not as concerned about specific typing feel and sound characteristics, the Lotus switch could be a more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features are most important to you in achieving the optimal typing experience.
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