Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, one noticeable difference is their distinct characteristics. The Aqua King (V3) is a linear switch that offers a typing experience reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink, providing a frictionless and smooth feel. In contrast, the Outemu Silver is also a linear switch but lacks any defining features that set it apart. If you are looking for a switch that is subdued, creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, the Aqua King (V3) may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more standard linear switch without specific standout qualities, the Outemu Silver could be more suitable. 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
Standard
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silver, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Aqua King (V3) has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Silver features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Silver creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3).
In terms of sound and feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silver differ in the impact of their bottom housing material. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3) contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a crisper and more resonant feedback when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silver absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. Additionally, the top housing material plays a role in the sound produced when a key is released. Both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharp, higher-pitched sound upon key release.
While the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Silver have similar polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound profile, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The Aqua King (V3) is designed with a polycarbonate bottom housing for a clear and resonant bottom-out sound, while the Silver features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. These housing material differences impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, creating distinct typing experiences for users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both fall into the medium weight category when it comes to actuation force. The Aqua King requires slightly more force to actuate at 46 grams compared to the Silver's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver switch is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Aqua King's 62 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Aqua King may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of the two switches, it can be said that both provide a consistent and comfortable experience for users. The 4 mm travel distance ensures that the keys are responsive and provide a satisfying tactile feedback while typing or gaming. Overall, whether you choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) or the Outemu Silver linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and 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 Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Outemu Silver linear switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, offering a smooth, buttery, and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. The sensation of typing on these switches can be likened to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch is unknown.
Overall, if you enjoy a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch would be a fantastic choice. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Silver linear switch are unknown, opting for a switch with similar descriptors such as creamy, silky, polished, and frictionless could result in a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and any additional features each switch may offer.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you'll want to choose the Aqua King (V3) if you prioritize a smoother and frictionless typing experience. The Aqua King (V3) offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, making typing feel effortless and fluid. Additionally, if you prefer a more subdued sound while typing, 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 linear switch without any standout features in terms of feel or sound, the Outemu Silver linear switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to whether you value a unique and silky typing experience or if you're simply looking for a reliable linear switch.
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