Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Yellow both offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its linear switch design that provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience, akin to gliding on ice. It is described as 'subdued', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'silky', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is a linear switch that does not have a standout feature but is known for its quiet operation. While the Aqua King (V3) offers a luxurious typing feel, the Silent Yellow provides a noise-free environment. 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
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 Silent Yellow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. This similarity in material for the top housing ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic experience from both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in the material of the bottom housing. While the Aqua King (V3) utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Outemu Silent Yellow opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper, crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. This contrast in bottom housing material may lead to a noticeable difference in the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a mechanical switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. In the case of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Yellow, the split between polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings respectively creates a unique typing experience for each switch. While both feature a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material results in distinct tactile and auditory feedback. Ultimately, preference for a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound will determine which switch is better suited for individual typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua King (V3) is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Outemu Silent Yellow has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This makes the Aqua King (V3) a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing or gaming without fatigue setting in. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow provides a heavier push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger resistance. Overall, both switches provide different typing experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be noted that both switches offer the same amount of key travel, providing a consistent typing experience for users. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect similar tactile feedback and keystroke feel when using either switch. Overall, whether you choose the Aqua King (V3) or the Silent Yellow switch, you can anticipate a consistent and comfortable typing experience due to their equal travel distances.
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 Yellow 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 Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a more dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth, buttery sensation with minimal resistance or friction during keystrokes, resulting in effortless key presses. In contrast, the typing feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is not provided. If the feel of the Silent Yellow is similar to the Aqua King (V3) based on the lack of information, users can anticipate a comparable level of smoothness and ease of typing.
Overall, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is praised for its frictionless feel and subdued sound profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience. While information on the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is limited, if it offers similar qualities to the Aqua King (V3), users can expect to achieve a similarly enjoyable typing experience with minimal noise and smooth key presses. It is essential for newcomers to consider their preferences in sound and feel when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, your choice may depend on your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a typing experience that feels frictionless like gliding on ice, then the Aqua King (V3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing preferences and priorities when selecting between these two switches to ensure you have the best keyboard experience possible.
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