Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver. The Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, offering a silky typing experience with a unique light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its rapid response and linear action with low spring resistance, ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and instant triggers. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and uses. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing may be better suited for users looking for a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to those who prefer a duller and rounder sound experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Lightning Silver V3 and the MX Speed Silver also differ in material. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its impact on the top housing. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the MX Speed Silver adds to a deeper and fuller sound experience, complementing the nylon top housing. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Users who prioritize a specific sound profile may prefer one material over the other.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their respective housing materials, with the polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3 creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound, and the nylon housing of the MX Speed Silver producing a deeper, fuller sound. Ultimately, users may find similar results in terms of sound profiles if they prioritize either a clear and resonant sound profile or a duller and rounder sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, we can see significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning Silver V3 has a medium actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver is notably lighter with an actuation force of 30 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the MX Speed Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. The travel distance of these switches allows for quicker actuation and a smoother typing experience compared to switches with longer travel distances. In this case, both switches offer the same level of responsiveness and efficiency in typing, making them both suitable choices for users looking for a fast and precise typing experience.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which produces sharp and snappy noises when pressed. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, creating a deep and rich tone when activated. When it comes to feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is described as offering a silky typing experience, characterized by exceptionally smooth key presses with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver is said to have a textured feel, potentially providing more friction during typing.
Overall, while the Lightning Silver V3 and MX Speed Silver switches differ in sound and feel qualities, both are designed to enhance the user's typing or gaming experience. The Lightning Silver V3 may appeal to those who prefer a crisp and bright sound with a silky typing feel, while the MX Speed Silver could be favored by individuals looking for a deep and satisfying sound with a textured key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case, but both options are sure to deliver a high-quality performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, as well as a silky smooth typing experience, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid response and maximum speed, especially for gaming purposes, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch with its linear action and low spring resistance would be more suitable for your needs. Keep in mind the sound and feel preferences described for each switch to make a decision that aligns with your preferences and usage requirements. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and use cases in the mechanical keyboard community.
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