Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron Beer
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Beer switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Everglide Aqua King (V3), a linear switch, and the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch. The Aqua King (V3) is revered for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, reminiscent of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. In contrast, the Gateron Beer offers a unique tactile feedback with a light and stepped tactility, giving it a distinct feel. While the Aqua King boasts a creamy and polished feel, the Beer is characterized by its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Beer, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will likely produce a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both switches.
However, despite their similarities in housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the sound and feel of the two switches based on any potential variations in the design or thickness of the polycarbonate housings. The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Beer may exhibit differences in sound profiles when bottoming out or releasing a key, as these qualities are influenced by both the top and bottom housings. It is important to consider how these differences may impact the overall typing experience and preference for one switch over the other.
Ultimately, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Beer showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in switch housings, such as producing a more resonant sound profile and allowing for RGB lighting customization. Whether you choose one switch over the other may come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with the added benefit of polycarbonate housings for a premium look and sound.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Beer tactile switch. The Aqua King requires 46 grams of force to actuate and 62 grams to bottom out, while the Beer only needs 38 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. This means that the Aqua King provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for added feedback and resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Beer switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Aqua King switch. The Aqua King switch with its 4 mm travel distance may offer a more traditional and substantial feel when pressed, which could be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Beer switch with its 3.4 mm travel distance may provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which could be advantageous for gamers or those looking for speed. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer tactile switch produces a sharp and snappy clacky sound, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Aqua King (V3) is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. It offers a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. In contrast, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. It features a stepped tactility that provides a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch focuses on providing a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a unique clacky sound with an easy-to-press feel and stepped tactility. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Gateron Beer tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you are looking for a smooth and frictionless typing sensation that feels like gliding on ice, then the Aqua King (V3) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight and easy-to-press switch with a subtle tactile feedback, along with a distinct clacky sound signature, then the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be your best choice. Consider your typing style, preference for sound and feel, and choose the switch that best suits your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what typing experience you value the most.
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