Durock Black Lotus vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) exemplify two distinct approaches to creating a superior typing experience. The Black Lotus, a linear switch, boasts a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between ease of use and satisfying feedback. Its innovative design minimizes stem and housing wobble while allowing for impressive in-switch lighting through its unique light column. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employs hall effect technology to deliver a uniquely balanced typing experience, characterized by a refined "thock" sound that enthusiasts often crave. The dustproof stem enhances performance by further reducing wobble, making it a compelling option for those seeking a tactile yet smooth feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences: the Black Lotus is ideal for users who prioritize smoothness and lighting aesthetics, while the Sticky Rice (V2) appeals to those who enjoy a more tactile experience without compromising sound quality. 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
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When we examine the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), notable differences emerge in their top housing, while they align on the material used for the bottom housing. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and urethane (UPE) for its top housing. This combination is designed to enhance the tactile experience of the switch while providing a unique and premium feel during use. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a pure polycarbonate top that inherently delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both haptics focus on sound quality, the Black Lotus's blend suggests a softer touch, aiming for a slightly more cushioned response, whereas the Sticky Rice prioritizes clarity and resonance in its auditory feedback.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a traditional and favored material in the mechanical switch community. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound effectively, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound signature when typing. This shared characteristic results in an overall duller and rounder sound profile for both the Black Lotus and Sticky Rice (V2), ensuring that users experience a warm acoustic environment regardless of their choice. The similarity in bottom housing means that, despite their differences in top materials, both switches can provide a pleasing auditory experience, making them suitable for users who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards.
The overall impact of these housing materials becomes particularly apparent when considering the switch’s performance and sound dynamics. While the Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE blend in the top housing may lend itself to a more plush feel during keypresses, the transparent polycarbonate of the Sticky Rice (V2) enhances the projection of RGB lighting thanks to its translucency. Despite these stylistic and tactile differences, both switches manage to harmonize their nylon bottom housings, consistently offering a rounded sound and cushioned typing experience. Therefore, both switches can yield similar results in terms of overall sound quality, while the top housing materials will create distinctions in tactile feedback and auditory clarity. This means users can choose based on their preference for sound clarity or tactile responsiveness without sacrificing the overall quality of their typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch present distinct characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Black Lotus has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience suitable for users who prefer a stronger feel. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) is lighter, featuring an actuation force of just 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lower resistance makes it ideal for those who want to type or game for prolonged periods without fatigue. Consequently, users seeking a more tactile experience should opt for the Black Lotus, while those prioritizing endurance and ease of use might find the Sticky Rice (V2) more appealing. Overall, the Black Lotus is the heavier switch, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a lighter touch for a more effortless keystroke experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see a notable difference between the two. The Black Lotus features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a traditional choice that caters to users who appreciate a more substantial feel during key presses. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, appealing to gamers and users seeking quicker response times. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Black Lotus, while those valuing responsiveness might opt for the Sticky Rice (V2). Hence, if you prefer a hearty depth, the Black Lotus would be the superior option, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more immediate response due to its shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch is characterized by a muted acoustic profile that tends to produce a more subdued sound when pressed, contributing to a softer typing environment. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provides a neutral sound signature with an appealing "thock" quality that many enthusiasts admire. This results in a satisfying auditory feedback that strikes a balance between being not overly loud while still providing a comforting sound upon each keystroke. Overall, while both switches can be relatively quiet depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a bit more auditory character, appealing to those who appreciate that specific sound.
Regarding feel, the Durock Black Lotus excels with its silky, buttery, and polished characteristics that promote an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Its design minimizes stem wobble, ensuring a refined and effortless keystroke that enhances comfort during prolonged usage. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) emphasizes a balanced typing experience that melds smoothness with a more tactile sensation. This means that while both switches deliver a smooth and polished feel, the Black Lotus focuses on an ultra-smooth experience while the Sticky Rice (V2) combines smoothness with a subtle tactile feedback, perfect for those who still enjoy a bit of resistance in their pushes.
In conclusion, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer distinct experiences catering to different preferences. The Black Lotus is ideal for those who prioritize an ultra-smooth and polished feel with a quieter sound profile, while the Sticky Rice (V2) appeals to users seeking a bit more auditory feedback along with a balance in typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, as both can deliver satisfying results in their respective ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch should be informed by your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a medium-heavy tactile experience with a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Black Lotus may be your go-to option. Its silky smooth feel, coupled with a polished design that minimizes wobble, provides exceptional precision which is ideal for tasks requiring accuracy, such as programming or extensive writing. Additionally, its removable light column offers a unique avenue for customization if you’re keen on aesthetics. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch while typing, the Sticky Rice (V2), with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, would be a better fit. Its super smooth keystroke, alongside a refined "thock" sound signature, makes it particularly enjoyable for gaming and lengthy typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Ultimately, if you seek a heavier, more controlled typing experience, opt for the Black Lotus; however, if you desire a lighter, more responsive switch that still provides a satisfying tactile feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the switch for you.
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