Gateron Beer vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many factors to consider, including feel, sound, and overall typing experience. The Gateron Beer switches present a unique tactile experience, drawing inspiration from the refreshing sensation of a Tsingtao beer bottle. Known for their lightweight design and stepped tactility, these switches provide a softer yet distinct tactile feedback along with a satisfyingly clacky sound, making them an enticing option for those who appreciate pronounced keystrokes without a heavy press. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches deliver a balanced typing experience characterized by their smooth keystrokes and a neutral sound signature that leans toward the coveted "thock" sound favored by typing enthusiasts. The dustproof stem minimizes wobble, enhancing performance while maintaining a refined tactile response. While the Beer switches are perfect for those seeking an effervescent sensation and lively acoustics, the Sticky Rice (V2) targets users who prioritize smoothness and subtlety in their typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Beer and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches, both models feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This similarity results in comparable acoustic characteristics, as polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making both switches great choices for users who prefer an enhanced auditory experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for excellent RGB lighting effects, ensuring visual appeal when integrated into customizable keyboard setups.
However, the housing materials diverge when we examine the bottom components of each switch. The Gateron Beer utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with the top housing in providing a more consistent sound profile across the entire switch. This uniformity is likely to yield a cohesive typing experience as both the upstroke and bottom-out sounds are influenced by the same material's characteristics. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon’s softer and more sound-absorbing qualities create a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a rounder bottom-out experience that contrasts with the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top.
The distinct combination of materials in the Gateron Beer and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) ultimately leads to different auditory outcomes. The Gateron Beer will exhibit a sharper and more resonant sound throughout the keystroke, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) will deliver a more nuanced audio experience with a deeper bottom-out sound due to its nylon housing. For users looking to achieve similar results in terms of a crisper and well-defined sound profile, the Gateron Beer provides a uniform experience, whereas the adjustable audio character of the Sticky Rice (V2) highlights the interplay between materials, showcasing the unique impact each housing contributes to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see some similarities and slight differences in their actuation forces. The Beer switch requires an actuation force of 38 grams, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Gateron Beer is a touch lighter, which may appeal to users looking for a less strenuous typing experience, especially for prolonged use during work or long gaming sessions. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they provide a similar level of feedback when fully pressed down. In summary, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Gateron Beer will likely be more comfortable, while those who enjoy a slightly firmer feel might gravitate towards the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Beer switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) measures slightly longer at 3.5 mm. Although both switches provide a tactile experience, the 0.1 mm difference indicates that the Gateron Beer will offer a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers or those who prefer rapid keystrokes may gravitate towards the Beer switch for its responsiveness, while users who enjoy a deeper, more pronounced feel may find the Sticky Rice (V2) more appealing. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you favor speed or depth in your keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch produces a distinct clacky sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) boasts a neutral sound signature that leans towards a "thock," which is a lower, more rounded sound often preferred by enthusiasts seeking a softer auditory experience. While the Beer invites exuberance with its clack, the Sticky Rice opts for a more subdued yet satisfying thock, offering different auditory pleasures based on personal preference and typing style.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer switches are notably easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate, which contributes to a comfortable and low-impact typing experience. The stepped tactility adds a unique dimension; you can sense the two-stage keystroke, which provides a gentle resistance and minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) switches is largely marked by their super smooth keystrokes and refined tactile sensation; however, specific descriptions of their tactile feedback or resistance are not provided. It can be presumed that the differences in tactile feedback will impact the overall typing sensation for users, with the Beer favoring an easy and mildly tactile feel, while the Sticky Rice may focus more on smoothness and stability.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Beer and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Beer provides a lively clacky sound paired with a light, stepped tactile experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy an effervescent typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more subdued auditory profile with a focus on a smooth typing action, likely appealing to those who prioritize a polished feel over auditory excitement. Ultimately, your choice would hinge on whether you lean more towards a bright auditory feedback with gentle tactile feedback or a refined sound combined with an emphasis on keystroke smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you lean towards a lively and engaging typing experience with a clacky sound signature that evokes excitement, the Gateron Beer switch would be an excellent fit. Its light actuation and stepped tactile feedback make it particularly appealing for those who spend long hours typing, allowing for minimal finger fatigue while providing a unique tactile sensation. On the other hand, if you prioritize a refined and smooth typing experience with more subdued acoustics, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is the better choice. Its neutral sound profile combined with a well-balanced tactile feel caters to users who appreciate subtlety and precision over overt feedback. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, the environments in which you'll use these switches, and whether you want to evoke a spirited atmosphere or prefer a more calming, focused setting. By identifying these nuances in your typing style, you can confidently select the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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