Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Everglide Aqua King and the SP-Star RedBlue, both of which are linear switches. The Aqua King is renowned for its frictionless feel, offering a typing experience that resembles gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. With its subdued, creamy, and silky characteristics, this switch provides a magical sensation while typing. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches possess their own unique qualities. Ideal for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience, they emit a higher-pitched sound and are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Both switches offer polished craftsmanship and satisfying typing experiences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the SP-Star RedBlue both use polycarbonate as the housing material for both the top and bottom housing. This means that both switches will have similar sound profiles, with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when compared to switches made with other materials. The use of polycarbonate in the housing also results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it ideal for those looking to incorporate colorful lighting effects into their gaming setups.
However, while the materials used in both the top and bottom housings of the Aqua King and RedBlue are the same, it is important to note that they will have different impacts on the overall feel and sound of the switches. The bottom housing of a switch is more responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, so the polycarbonate bottom housing in both switches will contribute to a satisfying and responsive keystroke experience. On the other hand, the top housing will have more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, providing a distinct auditory feedback that adds to the overall typing or gaming experience. So, while the housing materials are the same, the specific characteristics of the top and bottom housing will result in slightly different experiences when using the Everglide Aqua King and the SP-Star RedBlue switches.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Aqua King and SP-Star RedBlue switches utilize polycarbonate as the housing material for both the top and bottom housing. This ensures that both switches will have a similar sound profile, characterized by sharpness, higher pitches, and crispness. Furthermore, the polycarbonate material is visually appealing, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the top and bottom housings will have different impacts on the overall typing or gaming experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes to the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials are the same, the specific characteristics of each switch's top and bottom housing will create slight variations in the user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are notable differences. The Aqua King has an actuation force of 46 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is not specified. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and 57 grams respectively. This means that both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to fully depress the keys.
Considering weight, the Aqua King switch is lighter in terms of actuation force when compared to the RedBlue due to its known 46 grams. This lighter actuation force may be preferred by individuals who desire a keyboard that allows for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation force differs between the Aqua King and the RedBlue, both switches have similar bottom out forces. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua King may appeal to those desiring extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the RedBlue offers a more substantial keystroke.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Both switches provide a consistent experience in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Aqua King or the RedBlue, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance of the 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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switch is known for its subdued sound. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King switch is often described as creamy, frictionless, silky, or polished. These characteristics contribute to a smooth and buttery typing experience. The switch offers minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys, providing a fluid and effortless travel. Similarly, the RedBlue switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The RedBlue switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aqua King and RedBlue switches offer different subjective qualities. The Aqua King provides a frictionless and magical typing experience, while the RedBlue offers a medium-light typing feel that is suited for most purposes. The Aqua King has a subdued sound, while the RedBlue has a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. However, both switches share the characteristic of having a polished finish, which contributes to a smooth typing experience with reduced friction. Overall, while the Aqua King and RedBlue switches have distinct qualities, they both provide a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a frictionless and effortless typing experience, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch is the way to go. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a medium level of resistance, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys like ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. Additionally, the Aqua King offers a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a slightly lighter resistance compared to the Aqua King. The RedBlue switch is known for its relatively higher-pitched sound profile, which can add a unique auditory dimension to your typing experience. Additionally, like the Aqua King, the RedBlue switch also features a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a frictionless and effortless typing experience with a subdued sound profile, opt for the Aqua King. However, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound and a polished finish, the RedBlue switch is worth considering. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and can enhance your overall typing experience.
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