TTC Flame Red vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh the nuances of feel, sound, and aesthetics. The TTC Flame Red switches, celebrated for their dazzling light diffuser, not only provide a visually stunning experience with RGB keyboards but also deliver a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile that many typists adore. Their classification as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished' suggests a well-rounded performance that caters to a wide array of preferences. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a unique blend of a refined tactile experience combined with a neutral sound signature that aims to replicate the coveted "thock" sound that keyboard aficionados crave. With a dustproof stem designed to minimize wobble, this switch ensures a super smooth keystroke that enhances overall performance, appealing to those who seek tactile satisfaction without biasing too much on sound. Both options offer compelling reasons to choose them, whether for their striking visuals or their satisfying feel, however, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a clear distinction can be observed in their top housings. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its softer texture and ability to absorb sound. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making the typing experience feel more rounded and muted. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffer composition. This results in a sharper, crisper sound profile, which not only enhances the clarity of keystrokes but also provides a more resonant overall feel. Therefore, users may expect a richer auditory experience with the Flame Red while enjoying a more pronounced sound signature with the Sticky Rice (V2).

However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, creating a point of similarity between them. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a more subdued sound profile, fostering a deeper and fuller auditory experience when you bottom out on each key. As such, the foundational sound cushioning provided by the nylon bottom is shared in both switches, leading to common ground when it comes to the sensation of bottoming out. This means that while the top housing creates distinct acoustic characteristics, the underlying sound absorption and tactile feedback at the bottom will resonate similarly across both models.

In practical terms, the combined effects of the differing top and consistent bottom housings of each switch contribute to an overall typing experience that balances both styles. The Flame Red’s nylon top amplifies its deep sound qualities, relying on the nylon bottom to maintain that sound richness and tactile smoothness. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) leverages its polycarbonate top to deliver clarity and brightness while still benefiting from the deep and full sound feel imparted by its nylon bottom. Thus, while users might experience different auditory signatures when typing, the tactile familiarity and depth of the bottom housing serve to connect their overall performance.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Flame Red features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the 40 grams of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), making the latter the lighter option. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Flame Red is 54 grams, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Flame Red provides a slightly more substantial feel during both actuation and bottoming out, which some typists may prefer for enhanced feedback. Conversely, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Sticky Rice (V2) can lead to a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use such as in long gaming sessions or while working. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for lighter or heavier tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Flame Red switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) measures at 3.5 mm. This means that the Flame Red offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, providing a sense of depth that can enhance typing or gaming experiences. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Sticky Rice (V2) can cater to gamers seeking quicker response times, as the 3.5 mm travel allows for swifter actuation, which can be advantageous in fast-paced scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference; if you favor a more responsive action, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the better option, whereas those who enjoy a deeper, more tactile experience might lean towards the TTC Flame Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red linear switch offers a clean and clacky audio profile, making it appealing for those who enjoy a sharp auditory feedback while typing. This neutral sound signature achieves a balance that works for both casual and serious users, ensuring it fits various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. In comparison, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is characterized by its refined “thock” sound, a more desired auditory experience among keyboard enthusiasts. This quality gives it a deeper, more resonant tone, which some users find more satisfying. Both switches are subject to variations based on keycap and board choices; thus, achieving a similar audio experience may depend on your overall keyboard setup.

When discussing the feel, the Flame Red switch excels with its combination of mildness and polish, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience. It delivers a smooth keystroke thanks to its refinement, which reduces friction and enhances overall performance. This makes it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned users looking for an inviting experience without harsh characteristics. In contrast, the feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) is expected to be incredibly smooth, greatly supported by its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and effectively enhances typing comfort. Although specific descriptors for the feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) are not provided, its stellar reputation in the community suggests it also delivers a premium tactile response.

In summary, both the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics tailored to different typing preferences. The Flame Red shines with its clacky audio and smooth typing experience, ideal for a broad user base, while the Sticky Rice (V2) appeals to those who prefer a deeper “thock” and a hassle-free, buttery keystroke. Ultimately, your choice should align with your auditory and tactile expectations, bearing in mind that both switches can deliver a satisfying experience depending on your keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the choice between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you’re seeking a visually striking option for a backlit or RGB keyboard, the Flame Red’s impressive light diffuser is hard to overlook. With its medium-light actuation force of 54 grams and a smooth, mildly clacky sound profile, it provides a satisfying typing experience that leans towards a soft yet dependable feedback. This makes it an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned typists who favor a more accessible yet enjoyable keystroke.

Conversely, if you prioritize a super smooth key travel and a refined tactile experience, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) may be the better choice. Its light actuation force of just 50 grams offers a gentle push, which can be particularly appealing for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. The neutral sound signature seeking that coveted "thock" combined with the dustproof stem to minimize wobble makes it suitable for anyone who values a polished feel without sacrificing performance. Thus, your decision should be guided by whether you lean towards visually impressive aesthetics and a medium-light typing feel or prefer an ultra-smooth, quiet experience that excels in tactile refinement.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more