Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer unique performances tailored to different typing preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is celebrated for its fully polycarbonate construction, which imparts a distinctive bright and chirpy auditory experience, while delivering a silky smooth and bouncy feel during typing. This makes it an excellent option for enthusiasts who enjoy highly responsive switches that provide an engaging soundscape. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a more neutral sound signature that achieves the coveted "thock" appreciated by many in the mechanical keyboard community. Its dustproof stem enhances smooth keystrokes and reduces wobble, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a refined tactile sensation without sacrificing performance. Both switches cater to different user preferences: the Crystal Pro for those who revel in an energetic typing experience, and the Sticky Rice (V2) for individuals seeking a balanced and polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This material choice results in a sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate amplifies the clarity and resonance of the sound when typing, which is particularly advantageous for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback when interacting with their switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any keyboard featuring these switches. Thus, users opting for either the V3 Crystal Pro or the Sticky Rice (V2) can expect a consistent performance in terms of sound clarity and visual vibrancy due to the shared top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of these switches diverge significantly, leading to distinct experiences in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The V3 Crystal Pro employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the tradition set by its top housing of delivering a bright and resonant sound. The combination of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings would provide a harmoniously sharp auditory experience across the key presses. Meanwhile, the Sticky Rice (V2) incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, a material known for its softer properties that absorb sound and yield a deeper and fuller auditory profile. This contrast in materials results in varied feedback during keystrokes, where the V3 Crystal Pro would maintain a cohesive sound signature while the Sticky Rice (V2) would present a more rounded experience, particularly noticeable on a bottom-out.
This divergence in bottom housing materials lends itself to different user preferences. For users who enjoy the direct feedback and sharper sounds typical of polycarbonate switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro aligns perfectly with those desires. On the other hand, users who prefer a more muffled and warmer sound may find the nylon bottom housing of the Sticky Rice (V2) advantageous. Ultimately, if one were to utilize both switches in similar keyboard setups, the differing sounds produced during bottom-out and release phases would lead to unique experiences despite the similarities in top housing materials. In practice, this means that while the tonal qualities of both switches could achieve a certain level of consistency due to their polycarbonate tops, users would still notice a distinct difference once bottom-out actions come into play, reflecting individual preferences in auditory and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro requires an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which positions it as a medium-weight switch, providing a balanced feel for users who might prefer a bit more resistance while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a lighter touch. This lighter force can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Overall, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a heavier feel that may appeal to users seeking more substantial feedback, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a breezier typing experience for those who prefer a gentler push.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro provides a more pronounced keypress experience, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) may cater to gamers seeking quicker responsiveness, as its shorter travel distance allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if a user prefers a hearty depth in their key presses, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro is the better choice, whereas those who prioritize speed may favor the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch delivers a bright and chirpy auditory experience. This distinct sound is attributed to its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a unique signature that many users find appealing. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) boasts a more neutral sound profile that leans towards the "thock" sensation often sought after by enthusiasts. The sound of the Sticky Rice switches is noted for being refined, which can foster a more pleasant and subdued atmosphere while typing. However, the overall sound experience will still depend on the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, so users might find a range of acoustics in various setups.
Regarding the feel, the V3 Crystal Pro offers an engaging bouncy sensation, akin to a spring's rebounding force. This lively feedback, combined with a polished finish, translates to a luxuriously smooth typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provides a super smooth keystroke due to its dustproof stem, minimizing wobble and enhancing performance. This quality is essential for those who seek a refined tactile sensation, making the typing experience feel more controlled and precise. Although both switches emphasize smoothness, the bounciness of the Crystal Pro introduces a different level of dynamism compared to the more subdued responsiveness of the Sticky Rice.
In summary, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The Crystal Pro leans towards a chirpy, bright sound and a bouncy, smooth feel, while the Sticky Rice offers a balanced, neutral sound along with a refined, ultra-smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a lively auditory and tactile experience or a more controlled and polished typing engagement. Both switches provide exceptional qualities; selecting one may come down to personal taste and intended usage.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch depends largely on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience. If you enjoy a slightly heavier key feel with a bottom-out force of 60 grams, the V3 Crystal Pro might be suited for you, especially if you're looking for a vibrant typing experience characterized by a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feedback that gives a lively sensation with each keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for those who favor a more energetic feeling while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, with a 50-gram bottom-out force and a more neutral sound signature, the Sticky Rice (V2) is likely the better option. Its super smooth keystrokes and refined tactile sensation, combined with a "thock" sound, make it ideal for users who appreciate depth and balance in their typing experience without added acoustic interference. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether it leans towards a playful, bouncy feel with the V3 Crystal Pro or towards a smooth, balanced experience with the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2).
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