Huano Elf vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stand out as intriguing options, each catering to distinct preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Huano Elf, a linear switch, is celebrated for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a deep, satisfying sound signature paired with a medium-light keystroke feel—an excellent choice for those who prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch, boasts a neutral sound profile that produces the sought-after "thock" sound, providing a refined tactile sensation through its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. While the Elf appeals to users who favor a classic linear feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) invites those looking for a polished yet tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Elf and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) feature different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the overall sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. The Elf utilizes a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, with a slightly higher coefficient of friction than the LY material. This superior wear resistance and shock absorbency contribute to a smoother keystroke and a clacky sound when typing. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) employs polycarbonate for its top housing, delivering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that benefits from its stiffer composition. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic experience, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, showcasing an additional layer of functionality in design that the Elf's POK material does not emphasize.
Regarding the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which serves as a common element that ties them together despite differences in their top materials. Nylon's inherent softness provides a deeper, fuller sound profile and absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a dulled and rounder sound. This characteristic remains consistent in both the Huano Elf and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), reinforcing the idea that while different materials govern the top perceptions of the switches, the nylon bottom ensures a robust sound quality that enhances the typing experience. This synergy allows users to enjoy the benefits of a smooth top housing with the underlying bass provided by the nylon bottom, regardless of the top material used.
In summary, while the Huano Elf and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) diverge in their top housing materials—POK versus polycarbonate—their shared nylon bottom housing creates a cohesive auditory foundation. The POK material in the Elf optimizes for smoothness and durability, adding a clacky quality, while the polycarbonate top in the Sticky Rice elevates the sharper sound experience. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, users can expect a fuller sound profile due to the nylon bottom, showcasing how the integration of diverse materials can lead to complementary results in the overall switch performance.
Weight
The Huano Elf linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Elf features an actuation force of 42 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Sticky Rice (V2), which has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter feel to accommodate longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be more suitable. However, the Elf's unknown bottom out force leaves a gap in our understanding of its travel characteristics—without this data, it’s difficult to assess how it compares to the Sticky Rice (V2), which boasts a bottom out force of 50 grams. Therefore, while the Elf is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, the sticky Rice's lighter actuation might appeal more to those seeking ease of use, especially for prolonged periods. Overall, if you enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Elf might be your choice, while those looking for a lighter experience should consider the Sticky Rice (V2).
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm places the Elf as the longer travel option, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial keypress feel, offering a traditional depth that some typists and gamers might prefer. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2), being shorter, can cater to those seeking rapid response times, aligning well with the recent trend towards shorter travel distances favored by gamers. Ultimately, while both switches offer a responsive typing experience, the choice between them will depend on an individual's preference for either a more pronounced keypress or a quicker, more abrupt feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf linear switch delivers a deep sound signature that enhances the acoustics thanks to its POK top housing. This results in a rich, lower-pitched tone that some users may find satisfying for both typing and gaming, creating a heavy and resonant auditory experience. In comparison, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents a more neutral sound signature that leans towards the coveted "thock" that enthusiasts seek, offering a low-pitched and mellow tone that many find appealing. The sound produced by these switches can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps used, but both options tend to provide pleasant auditory feedback that avoids high-pitched harshness.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch is characterized by a medium-light actuation force that provides a pleasurable typing experience without being overly stiff. This makes it accessible to a range of users, although its specific tactile feedback can vary depending on individual preferences. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) shines with its polished and silky characteristics, providing an exceptionally smooth keystroke with minimal friction, which enhances overall comfort. The mild nature of the switch allows for a typing experience that is approachable to most users, making it an excellent option for those who prefer less pronounced tactile feedback. The buttery feel further contributes to a seamless and fluid typing sensation, elevating the overall experience beyond what might be expected from a standard linear switch.
In conclusion, both the Huano Elf linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Elf emphasizes a deep, rich sound and a medium-light feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) focuses on a refined auditory experience combined with polished smoothness and a mild touch. Users can expect both switches to perform well in terms of delivering a satisfying typing experience, although their acoustic and tactile signatures will appeal to varying preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's sensory preferences and the type of feedback they enjoy while typing or gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a unique sound signature with a deeper tonal quality and a medium-light feel, the Huano Elf could be your go-to option. It’s ideal for those who want an enjoyable auditory experience paired with a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, if you seek a polished and silky smooth keystroke with a neutral sound that appeals to the "thock" that many enthusiasts love, then the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is the better choice. Its balanced profile and low-pitched acoustics make it suitable for long typing sessions where comfort and smooth operation are paramount. Ultimately, consider how you want your keyboard to sound and feel, as your specific use case—whether for gaming, typing, or casual use—will guide you toward the switch that enhances your overall experience.
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