Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Gold Red Pro are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics and typing experiences. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its frictionless feel, resembling the smoothness of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro showcases versatility with its seamless typing experience and neutral sound signature. While the Aqua King emphasizes a creamy and polished typing feel, the Gold Red Pro offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches provide a silky sensation while typing, but each excels in different areas, catering to various preferences. 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
43g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Gold Red Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Aqua King (V3) also includes a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing instead. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The differences in housing materials between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Gold Red Pro can impact the overall typing experience. The split between the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Aqua King (V3) may offer a unique tactile response when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing may contribute to a softer and more muted sound profile, impacting the typing experience in a different way. Both switches, however, benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, ensuring a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the TTC Gold Red Pro comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials - polycarbonate for the Aqua King (V3) and nylon for the Gold Red Pro - can result in a distinct typing feel and sound. Whether you prefer a stiffer plastic for clearer resonance or a softer material for a fuller sound, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The Aqua King (V3) has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium resistance level. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Aqua King (V3) is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force compared to the Gold Red Pro, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Gold Red Pro might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch will significantly impact the typing feel, allowing users to choose based on their preferred level of resistance.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua King offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Gold Red Pro provides a slightly shallower travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Gold Red Pro due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Aqua King. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the Aqua King being slightly longer and the Gold Red Pro slightly shorter. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual typing or gaming preferences.
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 Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 (V3) linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, creating a more muted typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and satisfying auditory feedback. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Aqua King (V3) would be the better choice, while the Gold Red Pro offers a more pronounced and rich sound.
When it comes to feel, both switches exhibit characteristics of smoothness and silkiness. The Aqua King (V3) is described as creamy and frictionless, offering a buttery and effortless typing sensation akin to gliding over the keys. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro is also polished and silky, delivering a refined and smooth key travel experience. Both switches minimize resistance and provide a sleek typing feel, making them suitable for users looking for a comfortable and fluid typing experience.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch both offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a more subdued sound profile and an incredibly frictionless feel, the Gold Red Pro delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound along with a polished and silky typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer versatile options for different typing environments and preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aqua King (V3) or the Gold Red Pro, you can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider the following aspects. If you prioritize a typing experience that feels incredibly smooth and frictionless, akin to gliding effortlessly on ice, then the Aqua King (V3) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value versatility and a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for various settings, the TTC Gold Red Pro may be more aligned with your preferences. Additionally, if you lean towards a switch with a creamy, frictionless, or polished feel, the Aqua King (V3) or Gold Red Pro may cater to your tactile preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preference, and desired tactile feel. Choose the switch that best enhances your typing experience and aligns with your needs.
Mentioned in this article
