Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options that stand out are the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The Aqua King (V3) is celebrated for its sublime, frictionless feel, reminiscent of gliding effortlessly across a freshly resurfaced ice rink, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a smooth, linear typing experience. Its subdued and creamy qualities provide a magical feel that appeals to users who desire seamless keystrokes. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) strikes a balance that caters to both tactile enthusiasts and those seeking a refined auditory experience. Its neutral sound signature, combined with a super smooth keystroke and the added benefit of a dustproof stem, delivers the "thock" sound that many keyboard aficionados crave. While both switches have unique strengths—one focusing on a silky, frictionless glide and the other offering balance and a tactile response—each serves different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) exhibit notable similarities and differences in their housing materials that affect both the sound profile and tactile feedback during use. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality stems from polycarbonate being a stiffer material, which enhances the clarity and resonance when pressing the keys. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for users who enjoy RGB lighting effects, as it allows light to shine through effectively, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two models diverges significantly in material choice. The Aqua King (V3) employs polycarbonate, which helps maintain the crisp sound characteristics throughout the switch. This means the bottom-out sound and feel will still retain some of the high-pitched clarity due to the same material being used in both the top and bottom housings. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) opts for a nylon bottom housing, which introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic than polycarbonate, absorbs sound more effectively and produces a rounder, more muted sound when the key bottoms out, contrasting with the higher-pitched characteristics found in the Aqua King (V3).
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in both housings of the Aqua King (V3) allows for a consistent sound experience, leaning towards a bright clarity. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2)'s dual material approach—using polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom—creates a more pronounced difference between the key press and release, yielding a more layered auditory experience. Typists might prefer the Aqua King if they favor a streamlined sound profile, whereas those who appreciate a fuller sound during bottoming out may gravitate towards the Sticky Rice, despite its polycarbonate upper housing producing sharper tonal qualities. Both switches, however, leverage the strengths of their respective housing materials to deliver distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch to the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua King (V3) features a higher actuation force of 46 grams, compared to the lighter 40 grams of the Sticky Rice (V2). This means that typing on the Aqua King requires a bit more effort to trigger each keystroke, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out forces, the Aqua King also has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Sticky Rice bottoms out at just 50 grams. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter switch that allows for prolonged typing comfort, the Sticky Rice (V2) would be the better choice. Conversely, users who enjoy the tactile feedback of a heavier switch may opt for the Aqua King (V3) due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, your preference for lighter or heavier switches will guide your choice between these two options.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it is clear that the Aqua King (V3) offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference can impact user experience and preference significantly. Gamers may favor the Sticky Rice (V2) for its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times, which is ideal for competitive play. Conversely, the Aqua King (V3), with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback when typing, providing a deeper and more satisfying feel. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences—one prioritizing speed and the other depth—the distinction in their travel distances sets them apart for gamers and typists 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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) is characterized by a subdued auditory profile, producing a dampened sound that is less intrusive compared to louder switches. While it is not completely silent, the subtlety of its tonal quality contributes to a more relaxed typing environment, ideal for settings requiring concentration. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is noted for its neutral sound signature, hinting at the sought-after "thock" that many enthusiasts appreciate. This "thock" is typically a fuller, satisfying sound that balances the typing experience without overwhelming noise, further enhanced by the switch's design.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) stands out with its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished attributes, all of which contribute to a typing experience that mimics gliding effortlessly across a smooth surface. This switch facilitates fluid keystrokes, making it feel as though your fingers are skating over the keys with minimal resistance or friction, resulting in a delightful and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) is less explicitly detailed but is described as providing a delightfully balanced typing experience. This implies a firm yet satisfying responsiveness, potentially allowing for a mix of tactile feedback while still encouraging a smooth key press, although specifics like creaminess or slickness aren't provided in its characteristics.
In summary, both switches offer unique experiences: the Aqua King (V3) is tailored for those seeking a refined, frictionless glide with a muted sound, while the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to those who appreciate a more balanced typing sound with a satisfying thock. Though the descriptions highlight different qualities, the overall experience can appeal to users based on their personal preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor a smooth, quiet glide or a balanced, resonant typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you're looking for a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience that feels like gliding on ice, the Aqua King (V3) could be your ideal pick. With its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, it offers a creamy and polished sensation, making it perfect for those who enjoy a buttery feel while typing and tend to type swiftly without much resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch along with a well-rounded sound profile that provides a refined tactile sensation, the Sticky Rice (V2) would suit you better. With a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, it balances comfort and responsiveness while also offering that coveted "thock" sound. Therefore, consider the Aqua King (V3) for a premium, smooth experience and the Sticky Rice (V2) for a delightful blend of feel and auditory feedback, ultimately aligning your choice with your personal typing style.
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