Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° 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 Zero Degree 0° both offer unique qualities for different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding on ice, and is known for its subdued, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron boasts a revolutionary self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound. Each switch caters to different typing preferences, whether you prioritize a silky, frictionless feel or silent, noise-reducing typing. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an ideal choice for switches designed to be compatible with RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the overall aesthetics of the switches. Despite some minor differences in design, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a similar sound profile and functionality.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Aqua King (V3) and the Zero Degree 0° differ, with the Aqua King (V3) featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Zero Degree 0° utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, while nylon, a softer plastic, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of bottom housing material impacts the typing experience, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and nylon providing a more subdued, rounded sound.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° contribute to unique typing experiences for users. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the variations in bottom housing material - polycarbonate for the Aqua King (V3) and nylon for the Zero Degree 0° - offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing or the deeper sound of the nylon bottom housing, each switch provides a different typing experience based on the housing materials chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences. The Aqua King (V3) has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Zero Degree 0°. Additionally, the Aqua King (V3) has a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. In terms of weight, the Aqua King (V3) is slightly heavier than the Zero Degree 0°, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel during typing. However, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°. Overall, while the actuation force is comparable between the two switches, the bottom out force and weight may be the determining factors for users in choosing one over the other.
Travel distance
In comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that the Aqua King has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Zero Degree's 3.6 mm. The Aqua King's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth and feedback when pressing down on the key, while the Zero Degree's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower and more responsive feel. Gamers may appreciate the faster response time of the Zero Degree switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience may opt for the Aqua King. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 Aqua King (V3) offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. Both switches may result in similar sound characteristics based on other variables such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the Aqua King (V3) is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless keystroke, reminiscent of gliding on ice. Unfortunately, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown. Despite this, it is possible that both switches provide a similar level of smoothness and fluidity, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a typing experience characterized by a subdued sound and a luxurious, frictionless feel. On the other hand, information on the sound and feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is unavailable. However, with the Aqua King (V3) known for its exceptional qualities, it is reasonable to assume that both switches may provide a comparable level of performance in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to deliver a pleasant typing experience, catering to the preferences of users seeking a smooth and efficient switch for their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the bottom out force preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, opt for the Aqua King (V3). If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, the Zero Degree 0° may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you value a typing experience that feels frictionless and allows your fingers to effortlessly glide, the Aqua King (V3) would be the ideal option. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing with a smooth, stable, and noise-reducing switch, then the Zero Degree 0° would suit your needs better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your preferences for bottom out force and typing experience.
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