Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both offer unique typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its frictionless feel, akin to gliding on ice, making it perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches provide a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound, appealing to those looking for a balanced typing experience. While the Aqua King (V3) offers a creamy and polished typing feel, the Violet Gold Pro provides a subtle tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro in terms of housing materials, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, which results in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both keyboards share this feature, they may differ in their approach to the bottom housing material.
On the one hand, the Aqua King (V3) utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing to create a cohesive sound experience. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, similar to its impact on the top housing. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, provides a different sound profile characterized by deeper and fuller tones. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the potential for variation in sound and feel between the two keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboards can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The Aqua King (V3) maintains consistency with a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each keyboard results in a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Aqua King has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua King at 62 grams is higher than the unknown bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro. In terms of weight, the Aqua King is slightly heavier overall. The actuation force of both switches is relatively similar, so users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, the Violet Gold Pro may be more suitable, while those seeking a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Aqua King. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Aqua King. For those who prefer a faster response time and a shorter key travel, the Dareu switch may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper keystroke and more tactile feedback might lean towards the Aqua King. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 (V3) linear switch produces a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience, providing an extremely smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a stepped feel, giving a two-stage tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways.
Overall, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua King provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, akin to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offers a balanced tactile option with a light touch. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it's important to consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a frictionless and smooth typing sensation akin to ice-skating on a freshly resurfaced rink, the Aqua King (V3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactile typing experience with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a creamy, frictionless feel or a stepped tactile feedback. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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