Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Type A both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its frictionless typing experience, giving off a feeling similar to skating on freshly resurfaced ice. Categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', this linear switch provides a smooth and effortless typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offers a blend of traditional travel distances with factory lubing techniques, delivering a medium-weight switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued', the Type A provides a more subtle and balanced typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual typing preferences and requirements. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that the Aqua King utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, while the Type A utilizes nylon for both. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that aim for clarity and resonance. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
One similarity between the Aqua King and the Type A is that they both use polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, for both the top and bottom housings. This means that the qualities of the housing material will be consistent throughout the switch, leading to a consistent sound profile regardless of where on the keycap you press. The transparent nature of polycarbonate also lends itself well to RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. Conversely, the classic nature of nylon provides a reliable and consistent sound experience for users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile without the need for lighting effects.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Type A ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The Aqua King's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, crisper sound profile with the added bonus of RGB lighting, while the Type A's nylon housing provides a deeper, fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer the clarity of polycarbonate or the richness of nylon, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different sound preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on the individual user's priorities when it comes to their keyboard setup.
Weight
In comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, the Aqua King (V3) has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, the Aqua King (V3) has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Type A's 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, making them suitable for those who prefer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua King (V3) offers a slightly lighter initial push, which may be preferable for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Type A provides a lighter overall feel when bottoming out for those who prefer a softer touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The switch's travel distance is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is what you feel when you press down on the key. With both switches having the same travel distance, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, ensuring a smooth and uniform keystroke every time. Whether you choose the Aqua King (V3) or the Type A, you can trust that you'll get a satisfying typing experience with a comfortable 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 Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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) and the Gateron Type A linear switches both offer a subdued sound when pressed, providing a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. However, the Type A switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It's important to note that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction with the switches.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua King (V3) is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. The switches offer a smooth and effortless feel, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with minimal resistance. On the other hand, information regarding the specific feel of the Gateron Type A switch is unknown.
Taking all available information into consideration, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Type A linear switches offer a subdued sound profile. However, the Aqua King (V3) stands out for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a quiet sound and a smooth feel, the Aqua King (V3) would be a great choice. If you prefer a more neutral sound profile and are open to exploring different types of typing experiences, the Gateron Type A linear switch might also be worth considering. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the feel and sound signature that best suit your preferences. If you are looking for a switch that provides a creamy, frictionless, or silky typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Aqua King (V3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and moderate actuation force that still offers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Type A could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches rests on your individual typing preferences and desired feel and sound while typing.
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