Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Everglide Aqua King and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon. The Aqua King is a linear switch that is best known for its frictionless feel. Typing on these switches is akin to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink, as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys, providing a truly magical typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon also boasts a linear switch design and is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild. These switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to their progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. Both switches have their strengths and appeal, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches are both made from polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It offers a clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, polycarbonate is transparent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Both switches will produce similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal.
However, there is a difference in the bottom housings of these switches. The Aqua King features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on the Aqua King, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sea Salt Lemon. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so users may prefer the Aqua King if they prefer a more resonant typing experience.
It's worth noting that the top housing, regardless of the switch, will have a greater influence on the sound when the key is released. Both the Aqua King and the Sea Salt Lemon will benefit from the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile provided by their polycarbonate top housings. These materials allow for clearer sound resonance and are essential for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their typing setup. Overall, while the bottom housing materials differ, the top housings of both switches offer similar advantages in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is clear that they have some similarities, as they both fall within the medium range. The Aqua King has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is slightly lighter. This means that the Aqua King requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke and results in a more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. However, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a slightly lighter feel for those who prefer a lighter switch. Both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable for a variety of typing and gaming needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and similar experience when pressing down on a key.
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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Aqua King switch is described as producing a subdued sound when pressed. This means that it offers a dampened and more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which is bass-heavy and mellow. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and skill levels. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King switch is known for providing a frictionless and creamy typing experience. It feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys, with a smooth and silky sensation. It is also described as polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as mild, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience without any pronounced characteristics.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches have their own unique qualities. The Aqua King offers a frictionless and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound, while the Sea Salt Lemon provides a mild and low-pitched typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer smooth and effortless key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a magical typing experience with a frictionless and gliding feel, then the Everglide Aqua King linear switch is the right choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it strikes a balance between lightness and firmness. The Aqua King offers a subdued sound, producing a dampened and more subtle sound signature.
On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a progressive spring and a low-pitched sound, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is perfect for you. With a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a gentle and approachable typing experience. The Sea Salt Lemon has a neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon depends on your personal preference and typing style. Whether you prioritize a frictionless and gliding feel or a buttery smooth experience, both switches offer their unique qualities. With their different sound profiles and bottom out forces, you can find the one that suits your needs. In the end, both switches are great options for anyone seeking high-quality linear mechanical keyboard switches.
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