Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Milk Blue 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 Milk Blue offer unique typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is a linear switch that is best known for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on ice. With descriptors like 'subdued', 'creamy', and 'silky', this switch provides a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch that lacks specific notable characteristics. If you're looking for 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Milk Blue, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. Despite both switches using the same material for the top housing, they may still offer slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as stem design or overall switch construction.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the bottom housing material. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Milk Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material of the Milk Blue offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3). This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice between these two materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switch.
Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining its sound profile and feel. While both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Milk Blue feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue provides a deeper sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3). Whether one prefers a sharper sound or a fuller sound may influence the choice between these two switches.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, with 46 grams versus 50 grams, respectively. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires a heavier force of 62 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, making them suitable for a balance between typing comfort and typing speed. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Aqua King may be the preferred choice, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Milk Blue, assuming it has a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you're typing on a keyboard equipped with the Aqua King or the Milk Blue switch, you can expect to experience a consistent travel distance when pressing down on the keys. So, overall, the travel distance of these two switches is the same, providing similar results for users looking for a tactile 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 Milk 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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for its subdued sound, which means it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound quality is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke. In contrast, there is no specific information available on the typing feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch.
Considering the available information, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch might be more to your liking. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you desire. If you're looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Aqua King (V3) is the way to go. The Aqua King (V3) provides a frictionless and creamy typing feel, reminiscent of ice skating on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with an undefined bottom out force and enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Milk Blue may be the better option for you. Keep in mind that the Aqua King (V3) offers a subdued sound profile, while the Milk Blue's sound characteristics are not specified. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you want to achieve.
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