Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer distinct typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is a linear switch that is best known for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. The typing experience is described as 'subdued', 'creamy', 'silky', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that does not have any specific standout features. While the Aqua King (V3) offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Maple Leaf provides tactile feedback for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke sensation. 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
2.30 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 Maple Leaf, it is evident that the Aqua King (V3) utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, producing a duller and rounder sound. While the Aqua King (V3) focuses on clarity and sharpness, the Maple Leaf prioritizes a richer and fuller sound experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Aqua King (V3) and the Maple Leaf share common aspects when it comes to the qualities each material brings to the switch. Both polycarbonate and nylon impact the sound profile of the switches, with polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound while nylon delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Aqua King (V3) allows for RGB lighting to be utilized effectively, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switch. The nylon used in the Maple Leaf, being a classic switch housing material, offers a more traditional typing experience with its softer and sound-absorbing properties.
In terms of performance, the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Maple Leaf play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate in the Aqua King (V3) results in a crisper and more resonant sound profile, particularly noticeable when letting go of a key. Conversely, the softer nylon in the Maple Leaf creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, influencing the typing experience. While each housing material brings its own unique characteristics to the switches, ultimately, the choice between the Aqua King (V3) and the Maple Leaf depends on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the medium category in terms of weight. The Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. The Aqua King also has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Maple Leaf has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua King, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Maple Leaf, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Aqua King has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Maple Leaf's 3.3 mm. While both distances are relatively close, the Aqua King provides a slightly deeper key press experience. This extra depth may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking quicker response times and lighter key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Maple Leaf 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, producing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimized resistance and smooth key travel. This creates a typing sensation akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is unknown.
Overall, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch stands out for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a subdued sound profile. While the exact tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch remains unknown, it's clear that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Depending on your typing preferences and desired typing experience, you can expect similar smoothness and fluidity with the Aqua King's linear switch and potentially distinct tactile feedback with the Maple Leaf switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and effortless typing feel with minimal resistance, the Aqua King (V3) with its frictionless and creamy sensation may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a tactile bump for a more pronounced keystroke, the Maple Leaf might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, so take into account the unique characteristics of each switch before making your choice.
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