KTT Darling vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stand out for their unique characteristics and the distinct experiences they offer to typists and gamers alike. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, is celebrated for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, coupled with a pronounced bounciness that provides a springy responsiveness with each keystroke. Its high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out delivers an engaging auditory experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employs Hall effect technology to create a smooth and balanced typing experience, characterized by a neutral sound signature that resonates with the sought-after "thock" sound among enthusiasts. The dustproof stem design significantly reduces wobble, offering a refined tactile sensation that appeals to those who value precision in their typing. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences: the Darling’s bouncy and clacky feedback versus the Sticky Rice’s smooth and muted sophistication. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Darling Linear

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Darling and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share an important similarity in their top housing construction, as both utilize polycarbonate as their primary material. This choice of polycarbonate contributes to a sound profile that is characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio quality. The stiffness of polycarbonate enables a clearer resonance that is further enhanced when the housing is transparent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. Given that both switches employ this material for their top housing, users can expect a similar auditory response when typing, creating an appealing environment for those who prioritize sound clarity and visual aesthetics in mechanical switches.

In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) are also the same, both utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon allow it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a cushioned typing experience and a bottom-out sound that is more muted and rounded. This consistency in materials not only means that both switches will deliver a harmonious blend of characteristics but also ensures that users can enjoy a balanced auditory experience across keypresses—whether it’s the initial keystroke or the release.

Both switches thus provide a cohesive auditory experience, with the polycarbonate top housing creating a bright, responsive sound upon release, while the nylon bottom housing cushions the bottom-out experience. The synergy between the two materials contributes to a well-rounded typing environment that caters to diverse preferences. Overall, whether choosing the KTT Darling or the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), users are likely to find similarities in both sensory feedback and sound profile that enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Darling switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light option. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. This means that the Sticky Rice (V2) is the lighter switch, while the Darling is the heavier option. Both switches provide a distinct tactile feedback experience, but the Darling's higher forces may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel for typing or gaming, particularly during long sessions. In essence, those who favor a lighter touch for extended use would likely appreciate the Sticky Rice (V2), whereas the Darling caters to users who prefer a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Darling linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance can result in a comparable feel and responsiveness during typing or gaming scenarios. Since both switches provide an identical travel distance, users can expect similar performance in terms of actuation and feedback, making them equally suitable choices depending on other characteristics such as feel and actuation force.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out with its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant characteristics. Typing on the Darling yields a sharp and bright auditory experience, producing a clean and crisp sound profile that many find engaging. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) does not have a defined sound signature mentioned, but it is known to deliver a balanced auditory experience. This difference positions the Darling as the more pronounced switch acoustically, appealing to those who enjoy a distinctly audible feedback when typing.

In terms of feel, the KTT Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation, complemented by its bouncy nature. This switch creates a lively, spring-like feedback, allowing for a tactile experience that feels satisfying and responsive. On the other hand, while specifics about the feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) are not detailed, the emphasis on its super smooth keystroke and reduced wobble suggests a refined level of performance. Thus, while the Darling offers a more pronounced bouncy sensation, it's reasonable to infer that the Sticky Rice switch focuses on a different approach to smoothness and minimal friction.

In conclusion, both switches present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling excels in delivering a unique auditory experience with its bright and resonant sound while offering a lively typing feel that many enthusiasts cherish. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), while less described acoustically and tactilely, is noted for its smooth performance, making it an appealing choice for those who value a refined typing sensation. Ultimately, potential users will find that both switches provide unique, yet rewarding experiences, depending on their personal preferences in sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a typing experience that feels substantial and engaging, the KTT Darling is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, combined with a chewy feel and a pronounced bounciness, offers a satisfying feedback that can make prolonged typing sessions enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory element with its clacky, high-pitched sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother keystroke experience, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is ideal. With its 50 grams of bottom-out force and its refined, thocky sound signature, this switch effectively reduces wobble thanks to its dustproof stem, providing an elegant tactile sensation without sacrificing performance. Therefore, consider how you prioritize the nuances of sound and feel in your typing experience; whether you crave the more robust feel of the Darling or the refined smoothness of the Sticky Rice will guide you in making the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Darling Linear

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more