Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King and the TTC Gold Brown stand out as two excellent choices. The Aqua King is a linear switch known for its frictionless feel, almost like ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. Typing on these switches is nothing short of magical, as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. On the other hand, the Gold Brown is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying bump while remaining well-balanced. The weightiness of these switches adds to the typing experience, and their rounded sound profile is softer than most switches. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the TTC Gold Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these housings results in clearer and more resonant sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer similar sound qualities and aesthetic benefits due to their polycarbonate top housings.
Although the top housings of the Aqua King and Gold Brown are the same, their bottom housings differ. The Aqua King utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This choice of material ensures a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing. This nylon material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than polycarbonate. Consequently, typing on the Gold Brown with its nylon bottom housing will produce a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Aqua King.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switch, the top and bottom housings play different roles. While the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the qualities of the bottom housing in each switch will influence the overall typing experience during key presses, while the qualities of the top housing will be most noticeable when keys are released. Both the Aqua King and Gold Brown provide distinct experiences in these aspects, with the Aqua King showcasing a consistent and resonant sound profile throughout, while the Gold Brown offers a deeper sound on the bottom-out.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences regarding their actuation force and bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Aqua King is lighter, with an actuation force of 46 grams, while the Gold Brown requires a slightly heavier push with an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Aqua King at 62 grams and the Gold Brown at 63 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua King switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback while typing.
Despite these differences, both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes, albeit with slight variations in weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desire for a lighter or heavier touch experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the switch travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a similar level of tactile feedback and responsiveness due to their equal travel distances. Therefore, whether you choose the Aqua King or the Gold Brown, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of keypress feel, making them suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts and gamers alike.
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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Aqua King switch and the Gold Brown switch have distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel.
When it comes to sound, the Aqua King switch is described as subdued. This means that it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch is described as neutral, with a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you intend to use the switches at home or work. 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, the Aqua King switch offers a range of descriptors including creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. These descriptions suggest that the Aqua King switch provides an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction. It offers a fluid travel that is reminiscent of gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Similar to the Aqua King, the Gold Brown switch also offers reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aqua King and Gold Brown switches have their own subjective qualities that differentiate them in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua King switch provides a more subdued sound with a frictionless and smooth typing experience. It is like ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch has a neutral sound profile and a mild and buttery feel that offers a balanced and satisfying typing experience. Both switches have qualities related to a polished finish, which contributes to a sleek typing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a more subtle sound and a frictionless typing experience, the Aqua King switch is a suitable choice. If you prefer a moderate sound profile with a gentle and buttery feel, the Gold Brown switch is an excellent option. Depending on your preference, you can achieve similar smoothness and reduced friction with both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique and frictionless typing experience, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a magical sensation reminiscent of ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink, with your fingers effortlessly gliding across the keys. Additionally, the Aqua King has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls in the medium range. In terms of sound, the Aqua King offers a subdued experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle sound signature.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a balanced typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a suitable option. These switches feature a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. The Gold Browns offer a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, without being completely silent. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches also fall within the medium range. As for their feel, the Gold Browns provide a mild tactile experience that is approachable to most typists. They offer a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, with a polished finish that reduces friction and enhances the overall typing smoothness.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King and the TTC Gold Brown switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a frictionless and almost magical typing experience, along with a subdued sound profile, the Aqua King switch is an excellent option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced typing experience with a mild tactile feedback and a polished finish, the Gold Brown switch would be a great fit. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision.
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