Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Aqua King, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch, offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Aqua King is celebrated for its frictionless feel, akin to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. With a typing experience that feels magical, the Aqua King switch creates a smooth and seamless input. On the other hand, the T1 switch boasts a comfortable and satisfying tactile feel, reminiscent of raindrops gently tapping on a window. With a medium bump upon pressing down, typing on the T1 switch offers a distinct level of feedback. While these general descriptions provide a glimpse into the qualities of both switches, diving deeper into their unique characteristics will allow you to make an informed decision and select the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the Durock T1 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic, contributing to clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Thus, both the Aqua King and the T1 deliver similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of bottom housing, the Aqua King continues to rely on polycarbonate, offering the same benefits as its top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the T1 features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the T1 compared to the Aqua King.
As the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles, the impact of each housing material can be felt in different aspects of typing. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The Everglide Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Durock T1's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top housing of each switch has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. With polycarbonate top housings, both the Aqua King and the T1 produce similar results, offering a sharper and higher-pitched sound when releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Aqua King has an actuation force of 46 grams, providing a relatively light and easy keystroke activation. In contrast, the actuation force of the T1 switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams of force to fully depress the key, while the T1 switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier in this regard.
The weight of a switch can play a significant role in the typing experience for different users. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for those who frequently use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, a switch with a heavier actuation force would be preferable.
In terms of actuation force, the Aqua King offers a lighter option compared to the T1 switch. However, without information on the T1's actuation force, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. When it comes to bottom out force, the T1 switch is slightly heavier than the Aqua King. Consequently, users seeking a more robust typing experience may lean towards the T1 switch.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Aqua King and T1 switches cannot be directly compared, the Aqua King offers a lighter experience in this regard. Conversely, the T1 switch stands out with its slightly heavier bottom out force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences – those valuing a lighter touch may opt for the Aqua King, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the T1 switch.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile experience for typists and gamers alike. Whether you choose the Aqua King or the T1, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 is best known for its frictionless and smooth typing experience. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. The Aqua King switches are often described as creamy, silky, and polished, offering a refined and sleek typing experience. In terms of sound, they are described as subdued, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. While not completely silent, the Aqua King switches have a more muted sound signature compared to most switches. When combined with the right keyboard and keycaps, the Aqua King switches provide a magical and enjoyable typing experience.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is renowned for its high level of comfort during typing. These switches feature a medium bump when pressed, offering a satisfying tactile feedback. The typing experience on T1 switches is often compared to the sensation of rain falling on a window. The T1 switches are described as stepped and accented, providing a tactile experience that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Similarly to the Aqua King, the T1 switches are also described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. In terms of sound, the T1 switches have a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. They produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them suitable for various purposes and skill levels.
Overall, both the Everglide Aqua King linear switches and the Durock T1 tactile switches offer exceptional typing experiences. While their sound profiles differ, with the Aqua King being more subdued and the T1 being low-pitched and neutral, they both provide enjoyable and comfortable typing experiences. The Aqua King switches excel in their frictionless and smooth feel, while the T1 switches offer a satisfying medium bump. Whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, both options can deliver a magical typing experience, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you prioritize a frictionless and silky typing experience, with a moderately subdued sound profile, then the Everglide Aqua King linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys with ease. The Aqua King also provides a medium actuation force of 62 grams, which is suitable for most typing needs. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable and tactile typing experience, with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, then the Durock T1 tactile switch would be the better option for you. These switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying bump when pressed down. The T1's polished finish adds to its sleek and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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