Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Aqua King and the Wuque Studio WS Brown are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The Aqua King is a linear switch, known for its frictionless feel and smooth typing experience that mimics skating on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch that strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort. With a medium-light actuation force, it provides fatigue-free typing during extended sessions. Additionally, the WS Brown offers a delightful auditory experience favored by enthusiasts, thanks to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. While these general pointers give a glimpse into what each switch offers, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the Wuque Studio WS Brown differ in terms of their housing materials, with the Aqua King featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the WS Brown utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua King offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic nature. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic material, which absorbs more sound. Aesthetically, the Aqua King's clear polycarbonate top housing is especially useful when using RGB lighting, as it allows for a translucent effect. On the other hand, the WS Brown's nylon top housing is a classic choice for switch housings.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Aqua King and the WS Brown also differ in this aspect. The Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Conversely, the WS Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a dulter and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Therefore, the difference in housing materials between the Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing and the WS Brown's nylon bottom housing will directly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
When comparing the impact of housing materials on the sound profile when releasing a key, the top housing becomes more relevant. In this regard, the Aqua King's polycarbonate top housing would have a more pronounced effect on the sound produced when a key is let go. Similarly, the WS Brown's nylon top housing would contribute to the sound profile of the switch when the key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches serve specific purposes, with the Aqua King offering a clearer and crisper sound, while the WS Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Aqua King has an actuation force of 46 grams, while the actuation force of the WS Brown remains unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force that falls within the medium range, with the Aqua King at 62 grams and the WS Brown at 55 grams, which is slightly lighter.
Considering weight as a factor, the Aqua King provides a medium actuation force that can still provide a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch, with its lighter bottom out force, may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue.
While the actuation force for the WS Brown switch is unavailable, it is safe to assume that it falls within a range that is similar to the Aqua King, given their classification as medium switches. Both switches offer a balance between a lighter typing experience and the ability to provide a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience one seeks in a keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there is a slight difference. The Aqua King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Brown has a slightly shorter distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua King's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the category of a more traditional distance, while the WS Brown's 3.8mm is slightly shallower. In recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. Opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance can provide a more responsive experience. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial key depression, the switch with the longer travel distance would be the suitable choice. Overall, while there is a variation in travel distances between these two switches, both provide similar results depending on individual preferences.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the Aqua King switch is known for its subdued sound. While it is not completely silent, it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the WS Brown switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King switch is described with a variety of positive qualities. It is often referred to as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the Aqua King is said to be frictionless, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. It offers a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. It also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no available information on the feel of the WS Brown switch.
Taking into account all the available information, the Aqua King and WS Brown switches exhibit subjective qualities in different aspects. While the Aqua King provides a frictionless and buttery typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the specific qualities of the WS Brown switch remain unknown in terms of both sound and feel. Therefore, if you are seeking a typing experience similar to the Aqua King, including its smoothness and sound profile, it would be best to choose the Aqua King switch. However, keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Everglide Aqua King linear switch, you can expect a typing experience that is reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. The frictionless nature of these switches allows your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys, resulting in a magical and smooth typing experience. Additionally, the Aqua King offers a subdued sound signature, providing a more subtle and dampened sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you opt for the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, you'll discover a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during long sessions. Furthermore, the WS Brown switches offer a delightful auditory experience with their familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King and the Wuque Studio WS Brown will greatly depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound, the Aqua King may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you value a balance between responsiveness and comfort, along with a familiar and delightful auditory experience, the WS Brown may be your ideal choice.
Consider the qualities and descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Both switches offer unique advantages, and the decision ultimately comes down to what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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