Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King and the Gateron North Pole V2 are two popular options to consider. The Aqua King is a linear switch that is best known for its frictionless feel. Typing on these switches is akin to gliding across a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink, creating a truly magical typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is also a linear switch but is described as gummy in nature. When typing on it, you'll experience a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel. While both switches offer creamy and polished typing experiences, the Aqua King is more subdued and silky, while the North Pole V2 is characterized as being bouncy. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the Gateron North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which means that they share similar qualities and characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the fact that polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound experience. Another common feature between the two switches is their translucency, making them particularly suitable for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as the light will beautifully illuminate the switch housing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aqua King and the North Pole V2 are made of the same material, it is worth noting that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more prominent impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Essentially, both switches offer similar sound profiles and benefits due to their polycarbonate construction, but the specific nuances of each housing material can be experienced differently depending on whether you are pressing down or releasing a key.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings, which is a common trait of polycarbonate construction. This means that if you are looking for a switch with a visually appealing, transparent appearance, both the Everglide Aqua King and the Gateron North Pole V2 would fulfill that preference. Whether you choose one over the other will likely come down to personal preference, as both switches offer similar advantages in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, you can expect to achieve comparable results with either switch due to their shared polycarbonate housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Aqua King has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams, while the North Pole V2 requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua King has a slightly lighter force of 62 grams, while the North Pole V2 has a heavier force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium weight range, but the North Pole V2 can be considered slightly heavier overall.
Considering the weight of the switches is important as it can affect typing experience and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Aqua King, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might lean towards the North Pole V2, as its heavier forces can provide a satisfying tactile feedback.
While the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the Aqua King and the North Pole V2 switches may be slight, they can still impact the overall typing experience. It is important for users to determine their personal preferences in terms of switch weight and choose accordingly. Ultimately, both switches offer similar medium weight options, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either choice.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they provide a similar experience in terms of key press feeling. While both switches offer the same travel distance, it is worth noting that the Aqua King and North Pole V2 are distinct in terms of their design and construction. Despite their equal travel distances, the switches may still produce slight variations in feel and performance due to factors such as actuation force and overall build quality.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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, both the Aqua King and the North Pole V2 switches have a subdued sound profile. This means that they produce a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the Aqua King and North Pole V2 switches may have similar sound characteristics, the overall sound experience can vary based on the setup.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King switch is described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished. These qualities contribute to a smooth and buttery typing experience, where your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with minimal resistance. The Aqua King switch can be likened to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink, providing a magical typing sensation. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch is described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished. This switch offers a unique typing experience, almost like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The keys have a lively feel with elastic feedback, providing a chewy and satisfying typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, both the Aqua King and North Pole V2 switches offer desirable qualities for linear switch enthusiasts. They share similar subdued sound profiles, which can be further influenced by the keyboard setup. In terms of feel, the Aqua King switch focuses on being creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. Meanwhile, the North Pole V2 switch offers a gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished feel, giving a unique and enjoyable typing sensation. Ultimately, if you are looking for a linear switch with a subdued sound and a smooth typing experience, both switches can deliver similar results depending on your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a typing experience that feels like gliding on freshly resurfaced ice skating rink and offers a frictionless and magical sensation, then the Aqua King is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delightful typing feel that is described as gummy, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, then the North Pole V2 is the switch to go with. Both switches have a bottom out force of medium to medium-heavy, so you can expect a satisfying keypress regardless of your choice. Additionally, both switches produce a subdued sound when pressed, ensuring a quieter typing experience. Overall, it comes down to whether you prefer the creamy, smooth, and polished feel of the Aqua King or the gummy, creamy, and bouncy feel of the North Pole V2. Happy typing!
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