Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Cherry MX Orange both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among users. The Lightning Silver V3 is celebrated for its clacky, high-pitched sound signature and a silky, seamless typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, its light diffuser enhances RGB illumination, adding a vibrant flair to any setup. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, with their heritage as a revived classic, have been designed for gamers and typists alike, providing a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump typically found in other switches. The MX Orange appeals to users looking for durability and reliability, along with a quieter typing experience that doesn't compromise on performance. 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
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and Cherry MX Orange switches exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute significantly to their overall performance and sound profiles. The Lightning Silver V3 is constructed with a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition. This rigidity facilitates a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the switch's responsiveness during gaming or typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer by nature. This softness absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The choice of materials not only influences acoustics but also the tactile feedback experienced by users; the polycarbonate is likely to yield a more pronounced tactile click, whereas the nylon provides a smoother, quieter response.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a similar divergence in material usage. The Lightning Silver V3 also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances its bright and resonant sound. Conversely, the MX Orange's nylon bottom housing notably contributes to its softer and more muted sound profile. As sound perception is affected by both the top and bottom housing, the combination of different materials means that the overall typing experience is distinctly different. While the polycarbonate elements of the Lightning Silver V3 emphasize brightness, the MX Orange's nylon construction provides a rounder sound that caters to preference for quieter environments.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches can deliver satisfying acoustic results based on the user's expectations and environment. If a user desires a combination of sharpness and clarity, the Lightning Silver V3’s polycarbonate components work together to amplify these qualities. Conversely, if the goal is to achieve a deeper sound with a more subdued response ideal for working in quiet settings, the Cherry MX Orange, with its nylon housing, will excel in that context. Ultimately, while both switches provide different auditory experiences due to their contrasting materials, the user will find satisfactory outcomes depending on their personal preferences and intended usage.
Weight
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch features an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, with its bottom out force remaining unknown. In comparing the two, the Lightning Silver V3 is lighter, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a softer touch during long typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the MX Orange, with a heavier actuation force, provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Since the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, we can’t draw a direct comparison there, but it’s evident that the distinct actuation forces cater to different user preferences in terms of typing comfort and feedback. Overall, users looking for less resistance may lean towards the ever so slightly lighter Everglide switch, whereas those preferring a stronger interaction might favor the Cherry MX.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Lightning Silver V3 features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Cherry MX Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer of the two. This means that users of the Everglide switch can expect a slightly more responsive experience, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker keypress feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange offers a more substantial depth, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional and pronounced keystroke feel. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences—one catering to speed and the other to depth—the distinct travel distances highlight the varying tactile experiences they provide.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches are characterized by their clacky and high-pitched sound signature. They produce a sharp and snappy noise upon actuation, which many users find crisp, bright, and percussive. This auditory profile makes them an engaging choice for those who enjoy distinctive acoustic feedback while typing. The sound is designed to be lively and can greatly enhance the typing experience, especially in a setting where auditory cues are appreciated. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches do not have a specified sound profile in the available information, leaving their acoustic characteristics undefined. Therefore, if you prefer the pronounced auditory feedback of the Lightning Silver V3, the MX Orange may not provide the same experience since its sound qualities are unknown.
Regarding the feel, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 is noted for providing a silky and seamless typing experience. This smoothness can enhance comfort over prolonged use, making it ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. The MX Orange switches, however, do not have a described tactile feel in the available information, so any comparison on this aspect remains speculative. If you appreciate a smooth and fluid keystroke, the Lightning Silver V3 will deliver on that promise, but the reaction and touch feedback of the MX Orange remain uncertain.
In conclusion, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches stand out for their clacky and high-pitched sound along with a smooth typing feel, the Cherry MX Orange switches leave some elements lacking clear definition. For users who enjoy an engaging auditory experience accompanied by a silky typing sensation, the Lightning Silver V3 will likely be the more fulfilling option. If sound quality is a priority, the choice is clear given the MX Orange lacks specificity in its sound, while their tactile feel remains undefined. Ultimately, personal preference will guide the choice, but the Everglide offers a more explicitly enriching experience in terms of sound and feel as per the available information.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and Cherry MX Orange switches, your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who enjoys a tactile and high-pitched auditory feedback while typing, and you appreciate the aesthetic enhancement provided by RGB lighting, then the Lightning Silver V3 could be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom-out force makes it comfortable for long typing sessions while providing a delightfully crisp sound that can keep you engaged. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience with a proven track record of quality and performance, the Cherry MX Orange might be more suited to your needs. These switches offer a blend of reliability and a satisfying feel that appeals to a broader audience, especially those who may be more sensitive to sound or who work in quieter environments. Ultimately, consider your specific requirements, such as sound preference, tactile feedback, and aesthetic appeal, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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