Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options that stand out are the Everglide Aqua King and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow. These switches both belong to the linear switch family but offer different qualities that cater to specific preferences. The Aqua King is renowned for its frictionless feel, resembling the experience of gliding on a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. With a typing experience that can be described as magical, this switch falls under the categories of being subdued, creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in providing a budget-friendly option while maintaining excellence. Typing on these switches produces a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel. Categorized as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers its own unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
50g
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
Nylon
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow both share a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the sound and aesthetic qualities provided by the top housing of these switches.
However, the bottom housings of the Aqua King and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow differ. The Aqua King features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing will produce a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. As a result, users can expect a more rounded and duller sound when typing on the G Pro 3.0 Yellow compared to the Aqua King.
When it comes to the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel experienced when pressing down on a key. Therefore, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King will contribute to a more distinctive and impactful bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing, shared by both switches, will have a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key. The consistent use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a sharper and crisper sound release for both the Aqua King and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, some notable differences can be observed. The Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a slightly stronger push with an actuation force of 50 grams. Similarly, the Aqua King has a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua King may be the preferred choice, especially if they value extended typing periods or extended gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The higher actuation force of 50 grams provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, giving the keyboard a heavier and more satisfying touch.
It is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Thus, those who enjoy a medium to medium-heavy keystroke experience will find satisfaction in either the Aqua King or the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will provide you with a similar tactile experience and feedback. The travel distance of a switch is crucial in determining the level of comfort and responsiveness while typing or gaming. In this case, both switches offer an equal travel distance, ensuring consistent performance and satisfying keystrokes.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 linear switch offers a subdued sound profile. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle and less intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch delivers a high-pitched clacky sound. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, with a higher-pitched sound profile that may appeal to those who prefer a more prominent and vibrant typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Aqua King and G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches share similar qualities. Both switches are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This indicates that they have reduced friction and offer a sleek key travel. Additionally, both switches are also described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This may be due to factory lubrication or specific materials used in their construction. Typing on these switches provides a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys and melt into each keystroke.
Considering the available information, the Aqua King and G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Aqua King provides a frictionless and magical typing experience, reminding users of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. It offers a subdued sound and various descriptors such as creamy, silky, and polished in terms of feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is praised for its budget-friendly excellence, with a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy typing feel. It shares the creamy and polished descriptors in terms of feel with the Aqua King. While there are similarities in the feel of both switches, their sound profiles differ significantly. However, for those seeking a smooth and refined typing experience, both switches deliver comparable results thanks to their polished finish and creamy feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Everglide Aqua King linear switch, you can expect a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. These switches are best known for their frictionless feel, creating a magical typing experience that feels like ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. In terms of sound, they offer a subdued sound profile that is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. And when it comes to feel, the Aqua King switches can be described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimized resistance or friction.
On the other hand, if you are considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, you should expect a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. These switches are known for their budget-friendly excellence and offer a higher pitched clacky sound profile with a fairly bouncy type feel. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are also described as creamy and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a frictionless and almost weightless typing experience, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a higher pitched clacky sound and a bouncy type feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch may be the more suitable choice. Consider the sound, feel, and overall typing experience that you desire when making your decision.
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