HMX Deep Navy vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the distinct characteristics of various options, such as the HMX Deep Navy and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The HMX Deep Navy, a linear switch, captivates users with its rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, attributed to its full nylon construction and Ly stem design. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a quiet and fluid typing experience, making it a great choice for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), categorized as a hall effect switch, offers a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature that delivers the satisfying "thock" many enthusiasts crave. Its dustproof stem not only enhances smoothness but also minimizes wobble, appealing to users who seek a refined tactile sensation. While both switches have unique advantages that cater to different preferences, the choice ultimately depends on your typing style and sound preferences. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a clear distinction can be observed in the choice of materials for their top housings. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is a classic switch housing material recognized for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon means it absorbs more sound, contributing to a more subdued acoustic experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) employs polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, giving it a crisp quality that is often favored for its aesthetic compatibility with RGB lighting due to its translucent properties. Thus, while both switches aim for a superior typing experience, they achieve this through differing acoustic characteristics derived from their choice of top housing material.
Looking at the bottom housings, both the Deep Navy and Sticky Rice (V2) share a commonality by using nylon. This consistency in material choice means that both switches will exhibit similar sound profiles from the bottom housing, where the nylon's softer texture contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Since the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out feel and sound when typing, both switches will inherently retain that characteristic warmth and sound absorption associated with nylon. Therefore, regardless of the difference in the top housing materials, the bottom housing similarity ensures that users will experience a consistent, rounded sound quality in both deep navy and sticky rice switches when pressing the keys.
The overall effect of combining these housing materials in the HMX Deep Navy and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) leads to a differentiated typing experience, distinctly influenced by their unique housing configurations. The Deep Navy benefits from a harmonious blend of deeper sounds from both nylon housings, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a dynamic contrast between the crispness of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon. Consequently, when users engage with these switches, they will notice varied sound profiles that contribute to the overall sensation of typing. Therefore, even if the top and bottom materials diverge, the specific acoustic textures created by each material will yield personalized experiences tailored to individual preferences, allowing for both switches to cater to different auditory tastes while still achieving similar results in their bottom-out auditory impact.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 40 grams, making them feel similarly responsive upon keypress. However, the bottom out force differs slightly, with the Deep Navy at 45 grams and the Sticky Rice (V2) at 50 grams, indicating that while both switches are light, the Sticky Rice offers a somewhat heavier bottoming out experience. This heavier force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while those who favor a lighter touch might be inclined towards the Deep Navy. Overall, the similarities in actuation force suggest a comparable user experience in terms of triggering keystrokes, but the differences in bottom out force cater to varied preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there is a slight difference to note. The Deep Navy switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Sticky Rice slightly shorter, which could appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to the more abrupt actuation it offers. Conversely, the HMX Deep Navy with its longer 3.6 mm travel distance might be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys, lending itself to a deeper and potentially more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding the balance between responsiveness and tactile depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 HMX Deep Navy switch produces a rich, sharp audio profile that captures the attention of typists who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic experience. Its full nylon construction contributes to a deeper resonance, making each keystroke feel impactful. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a neutral sound signature that leans more towards a muted yet satisfying "thock" sound, which many enthusiasts find appealing. This balancing act in acoustics creates a comfortable clicking experience that is less aggressive than the Deep Navy while still providing enough auditory feedback to satisfy users.
When considering feel, the Deep Navy switch is renowned for its silky smoothness, particularly attributed to the Ly stem, which ensures a seamless keystroke and pleasant typing experience. This smoothness is very appealing for those who type for extended periods. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) is celebrated for its super smooth keystroke as well, enhanced by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and elevates performance. While both switches excel in smoothness, the Sticky Rice manages to add a refined tactile sensation, appealing to users who desire a more intricate typing experience without losing the essence of feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches have unique strengths that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Deep Navy’s rich sound and silky smooth keystroke will satisfy those seeking a pronounced auditory experience, while the Sticky Rice (V2) delivers a balanced acoustic profile with a refined touch. Ultimately, if you're looking for a smooth experience, you won't be disappointed with either switch, as both offer their distinct appeal to enhance your typing adventures.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your prioritization of sound and tactile feedback in your typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and revel in a bold, rich sound profile that enhances your auditory experience, the Deep Navy is the switch for you. Its silky smooth keystrokes and full nylon construction make it particularly appealing for those who engage in creative work or enjoy the satisfying sound of each keypress while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you value a well-balanced and refined typing experience with a noteworthy "thock" sound, the Sticky Rice (V2) is likely the better choice. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force and dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, this switch provides a more controlled and stable feel that can benefit both casual typists and competitive gamers looking for precision in their keystrokes. Ultimately, you should choose the Deep Navy for its audacious acoustics and smoothness or the Sticky Rice (V2) for its balanced feel and nuanced sound.
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