Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Everglide Aqua King and the Outemu Phoenix. The Aqua King, a linear switch, is best known for its frictionless typing experience that feels like gliding on a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. With its subdued, creamy, and silky characteristics, this switch offers a magical typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix, a clicky switch, stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, creating a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile. Its crunchy feel and polished features make it one of the most distinctive clicky switches available today. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, making it a desirable choice for those who want to incorporate colorful lighting effects into their keyboard setup. Therefore, in terms of the top and bottom housings, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic considerations.
When it comes to the different housings of the Everglide Aqua King and the Outemu Phoenix, the qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, the top housing influences the sound produced when the key is released. This differentiation allows for a more nuanced typing experience, as the two parts work together to create a comprehensive auditory feedback. It's worth noting that both switches utilize polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, meaning that the overall sound profile and tactile experience will have some degree of similarity between the two.
In terms of housing materials, both the Everglide Aqua King and the Outemu Phoenix rely on the strengths of polycarbonate to deliver their distinct sound profiles. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to the creation of a clear and resonant sound, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched audio feedback. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective utilization of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of both switches. As a result, whether it's the Aqua King or the Phoenix, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, thanks to the shared usage of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The Aqua King has an actuation force of 46 grams, providing a medium level of resistance needed to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force for the Phoenix switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare in this aspect. Both switches, however, share a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Aqua King switch. Its lower actuation force and medium bottom out force make it suitable for long gaming sessions or professional work environments. In contrast, individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces.
While the exact actuation force of the Phoenix switch is unknown, if it is similar to the Aqua King's 46 grams, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation force. However, it is important to note that without concrete information on the Phoenix switch's actuation force, a definitive comparison cannot be made. Nonetheless, both switches offer a similar medium level of resistance when it comes to bottoming out, ensuring a consistent feel across keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on an individual's specific preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have different travel distances. The Aqua King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Aqua King's travel distance of 4 mm falls into the category of the most traditional travel distance, offering a good balance of depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Phoenix's travel distance of 3.3 mm is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more immediate and responsive feel, the Phoenix would be the better option for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and if you are one of them and prefer a deeper key press, the Aqua King with its 4 mm travel distance would be more suitable. Overall, the Aqua King and the Phoenix offer different travel distances, allowing users to choose between a traditional depth or a shorter and snappier response.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Aqua King switch offers a more subdued experience. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is described as crunchy. This crunchy sound is commonly associated with clicky switches and resembles stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so results may vary.
In terms of feel, both switches have a polished finish that results in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Aqua King switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on a creamy switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Aqua King switch is also described as frictionless, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It provides a fluid travel and a silky typing sensation. Similarly, the Phoenix switch also has a polished finish, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aqua King and Phoenix switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua King switch provides a more subdued sound, while the Phoenix switch offers a crunchy click. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Aqua King switch has a creamy and frictionless feel, giving a silky and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch has a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results with either switch, but they each have their unique qualities to consider.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a frictionless and effortless typing experience, the Aqua King linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Aqua King provides a smooth and silky typing feel, reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. The Aqua King switch truly excels at offering a magical and glide-like typing experience that will enhance your overall enjoyment. Additionally, the Aqua King switch is described as having a subdued sound, making it a more subtle option compared to most switches.
On the other hand, if you crave a unique and crystalline typing feel and sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is the way to go. With its under-skirt click mechanism, the Phoenix switch offers a crunchy typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The Phoenix also features a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a frictionless, subdued, and magical typing experience, go for the Aqua King. If you prefer a clicky, crunchy, and polished typing feel with a unique sound profile, the Phoenix is the way to go. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, so consider the feel and sound that aligns best with your preferences when making your decision.
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