Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both of which are linear switches. The Aqua King (V3) is renowned for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. With descriptors like 'subdued', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'silky', and 'polished', this switch offers a unique and almost magical typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean is a quieter option, as the name suggests, and does not come with any specific characteristics mentioned. Those looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience may opt for the Aqua King (V3), while those prioritizing silence might prefer the Silent Ocean. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting setups. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience on these switches.
In terms of typing experience, the differences between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean can be attributed to their bottom housing materials. While the Aqua King (V3) delivers a crisper sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate, the Silent Ocean offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. When typing on switches utilizing these different materials, users may notice variations in sound, feel, and overall feedback. This distinction in bottom housing materials showcases how subtle differences can influence the overall typing experience on mechanical keyboards.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Ocean both utilize polycarbonate top housings. This shared feature means that users can expect a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile from these switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for enhanced clarity and resonance in sound, making them suitable for RGB lighting setups. While the bottom housing materials may differ, the consistent use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures that both switches deliver a comparable typing experience in terms of sound quality and feedback.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation force, with the Aqua King requiring 46 grams and the Silent Ocean slightly lighter at 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Silent Ocean which requires 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua King may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the slight differences in force catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and actuation, regardless of whether they opt for the Aqua King (V3) or the Silent Ocean switch.
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 Silent Ocean 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 profile, offering a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. This is ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is currently unavailable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) is praised for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless typing sensation, providing a luxurious feel with every keystroke. The absence of friction enhances the overall typing experience, allowing for quick and precise typing. As for the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, information on its feel is not provided, making it challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in this aspect.
Considering the available information, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its smooth and frictionless feel, coupled with a subdued sound profile. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, it is safe to assume that if someone enjoys the characteristics of the Aqua King (V3), they may also find satisfaction in the Silent Ocean switch if it shares similar traits. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it really comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and frictionless typing feel, similar to the sensation of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice, then the Aqua King (V3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a more subdued sound profile, the Silent Ocean might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it all boils down to your personal taste and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely and enjoy your typing journey!
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