Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Taichi stand out among linear options, each offering a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is celebrated for its remarkably frictionless feel, providing a smooth and silky typing experience reminiscent of ice skating on freshly resurfaced ice. This switch is ideal for those who value a subdued and creamy keypress with an almost magical gliding sensation. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi boasts an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, enhanced by its long-pole stem and extended springs, which contribute to a feeling of stability and fluidity in each keystroke. While both switches deliver a linear experience devoid of tactile bumps or audible clicks, the Aqua King focuses on a nearly effortless glide, while the Taichi emphasizes sound and stability. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Taichi both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which leads to a comparable sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Polycarbonate’s inherent rigidity allows for more resonance and clarity, enhancing the overall sound quality produced by the switches. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of the polycarbonate, making them particularly well-suited for RGB lighting setups. This commonality in top housing material ensures that users of either switch can expect a bright and vibrant lighting effect as well as a similarly dynamic and responsive typing experience.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches diverge significantly. The Aqua King (V3) features polycarbonate in its bottom housing as well, reinforcing the sharper sound profile associated with this material. On the other hand, the Taichi opts for a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties. The nylon construction contributes to a sound profile that absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a rounder and more subdued auditory feedback. This fundamental difference can affect the overall typing experience, as the Aqua King (V3) will produce a more consistent high-pitched sound throughout the action of the keypress, while the Taichi will yield a more muted bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials in the bottom housings of the Aqua King (V3) and the Taichi highlight how the characteristics of each housing type influence the end sound and feel of the switches. In the Aqua King (V3), the use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom means that users will experience a unified sound profile, lending to an overall sharpness in auditory feedback. Conversely, the Taichi’s combination of polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom creates a blend of sound attributes—sharp on key release due to the polycarbonate and fuller on key press thanks to the nylon. Consequently, while both switches may share a crisp sound quality from their polycarbonate tops, the user experience will differ significantly during typing due to the distinct bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that may influence user experience. The Aqua King (V3) features an actuation force of 46 grams, which positions it on the medium side of the weight spectrum, making it suitable for users seeking a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Taichi offers a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, appealing to those who prefer a less strenuous keystroke, ideal for lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi remains unknown, which adds an element of uncertainty regarding the force required for a complete key press. Meanwhile, the Aqua King's bottom out force of 62 grams reinforces its more substantial typing experience, catering to users who favor a heavier switch feel. In terms of which switch is lighter, the Bsun Taichi clearly takes the lead with its lower actuation force, while the Aqua King (V3) is heavier by comparison.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences. The Aqua King (V3) has a travel distance of 4 mm, which provides a more traditional feel and a deeper keypress. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those seeking quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. While both switches offer a linear experience, the Aqua King (V3) is the longer option, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Taichi, with its shorter travel distance, can feel more abrupt but promotes faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keyfeel and responsiveness.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 (V3) is characterized as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This gives the switch a subtle sound profile that doesn't distract from the typing experience. While it’s not entirely silent, the Aqua King is generally quieter than many other mechanical switches, making it suitable for quieter environments. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is known for its high-pitched bottom-out sound, which can be more pronounced during typing. This distinct auditory feedback can add a layer of engagement to the typing experience, though it may not be as versatile in quieter settings.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King (V3) offers a truly remarkable typing experience, described using words like creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. This amalgamation of descriptors speaks to a switch that provides an exquisitely smooth ride as you type, with virtually no resistance, akin to gliding effortlessly across the keyboard. On the other hand, the feel of the Bsun Taichi linear switch remains unknown, leaving a gap in direct comparison regarding its typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) provides a luxurious typing experience, combining a subdued sound profile with an impressively smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a quiet yet enjoyable interaction with their keyboard. Meanwhile, while the Taichi performs well in sound with its high-pitched exit, details regarding its tactile feel remain undisclosed. Each switch offers unique qualities: if you favor smoothness and less noise, the Aqua King would suit you well; however, for those drawn to distinct auditory feedback, the Taichi might be the preferred option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Bsun Taichi linear switches, your preferences for typing feel and feedback should guide your choice. If you value a luxurious, smooth typing experience where each keystroke feels like you're gliding effortlessly across the keys, the Aqua King (V3) with its creamy, frictionless feel is the ideal option. It's perfect for those who appreciate a more subdued sound profile, ensuring a quiet yet satisfying typing environment. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a switch that offers a unique auditory experience along with a focus on stability and smoothness, the Bsun Taichi may be your best bet, given its high-pitched bottom-out sound and long-pole stem design. While its precise bottom-out force remains unknown, it may cater to those who seek a more varied auditory feedback during their typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize an immersive, silky typing feel or a distinctive sound experience paired with stability.
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