Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, both linear switches. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink, providing a magical typing experience. Its characteristics are described as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black by Gateron stands out for its premium quality at a budget-friendly price, offering a heavier typing experience with 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Known for its clacky and creamy feel, it also features a frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects. While these are general pointers for choosing each switch, 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
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials offer distinct sound qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua King (V3) may result in a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aqua King (V3) and the G Pro 3.0 Black also differ in material composition. The Aqua King (V3) features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements its top housing to create a sharper and clear sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Black, on the other hand, utilizes a POM bottom housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profile between the two switches can provide users with a variety of options depending on their preference for key feel and sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While the Aqua King (V3) offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a unique clacky sound with its proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different sound characteristics. Whether users prefer a higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Aqua King requires a lighter touch. The Aqua King has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua King would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial and deliberate typing feel. Overall, both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, making them versatile options for different preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same for both. As a result, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance when using either switch. So, in this case, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black are equal in terms of travel distance.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Aqua King (V3) offers a subdued experience, providing a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch produces a clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. If you prefer a more subtle and quieter sound, the Aqua King (V3) would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more distinct and percussive sound.
Moving on to feel, both switches share qualities of a creamy and silky typing experience. The Aqua King (V3) provides a frictionless sensation, akin to effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys with minimal resistance. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a smooth and buttery feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a polished typing experience, ensuring a sleek and refined feel with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) excels in providing a frictionless and subdued sound typing experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter and smooth operation. Meanwhile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with its clacky sound and balanced medium-heavy tactile feel, ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, typing feel, and desired typing experience. By selecting either the Aqua King (V3) or G Pro 3.0 Black, you can expect a satisfying and premium mechanical keyboard switch that aligns with your specific preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a typing experience that feels akin to gliding effortlessly, then the Aqua King (V3) switch with its creamy, frictionless, and polished feel might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and desire a more substantial typing experience with a clacky sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Black switch with its creamy, silky, and subtle feel might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch choice for your needs.
Mentioned in this article
