Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can be overwhelming, especially when comparing distinct types like the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, known for its budget-friendly linear feel, offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that balances responsiveness and ease of use. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, making it an attractive choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate both aesthetic and performance without a hefty price tag. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) introduces a hall effect switch that aims to provide a refined tactile sensation with its super smooth keystroke and a satisfying neutral sound signature that many enthusiasts yearn for, encapsulating that elusive "thock." While the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a silky, creamy typing experience ideal for those seeking simplicity and affordability, the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to users who prioritize a premium feel and sound in their typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a shared sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp. This common material choice allows both switches to deliver a clear and resonant quality when pressed. Polycarbonate's inherent translucency not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of each switch but also makes them particularly compatible with RGB lighting setups, enabling vibrant illumination to shine through. Therefore, users looking for a dynamic visual experience alongside their typing experience will find similar results in both switches due to this shared composition.
In contrast, while the top housings of both switches have comparable benefits, their bottom housings diverge significantly. Both the G Pro 3.0 Red and Sticky Rice (V2) feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which lends a deeper and fuller sound profile to the overall typing experience. Nylon's softer composition contrasts with the stiffer polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and consequently creating a rounder and less resonant bottom-out sensation. While the top housing contributes to the sounds produced during key release, it's the nylon bottom that shapes the tactile feedback and sound when keys are fully pressed down, offering a more muted character that many users find satisfying.
Overall, the combination of materials results in a unique interplay of sound and feel for each switch. Since both share polycarbonate for their top and nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect both switches to deliver similar audible characteristics under keypresses, while the distinctions in the housing design offer nuanced differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red may touch on more crisp sounds during release, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) provides an overall more subdued typing experience due to its nylon’s sound dampening properties. Ultimately, this careful balance creates a variety of experiences, all while maintaining key similarities across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see that both switches have relatively light weights, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sticky Rice (V2) is slightly lighter at 40 grams, allowing for a quicker response with less effort. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to fully depress the key. Therefore, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a heavier actuation force compared to the Sticky Rice (V2), both switches provide a satisfying keystroke experience, although users who favor lighter touches may gravitate towards the Sticky Rice (V2) for its lower actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option between the two. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter and may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker key response times. This difference highlights the preference some users have for deeper key presses with the G Pro 3.0 Red, which can provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who enjoy the feel of a substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be more suitable for users who favor a lightweight and rapid keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different user preferences, the G Pro 3.0 Red focuses on a traditional, deeper travel feel, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) leans towards a modern, speed-oriented design.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) in terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red is characterized by a neutral auditory profile, making it versatile for various settings, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned user. This switch offers a moderate sound that suits a range of typing environments, from quiet office spaces to home use. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Sticky Rice (V2) isn't specified, leaving it unclear how it specifically compares. However, many enthusiasts seek a deeper, "thock"-like noise that often appeals to users looking for a more engaging auditory experience, which might be typical in the hall effect switches.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red excels with its creamy, silky, and polished characteristics, providing users with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The factory lubrication and the materials used contribute to virtually effortless key presses, allowing for an enjoyable interaction with the keyboard. In contrast, while the feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) isn't specifically detailed, the emphasis on a refined tactile sensation suggests that it may also prioritize a smooth experience, potentially making it appealing to users who appreciate a blend of performance and comfort.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different preferences and needs within the mechanical keyboard community. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is designed for a smooth, accessible typing experience with a neutral sound that fits well in various contexts. The Sticky Rice (V2), though its exact attributes remain unknown, likely offers a nuanced auditory experience with a focus on a satisfying tactile feel. Users ultimately may find their choice hinges on their specific auditory and tactile expectations, as well as the particular setup they are using, such as board and keycap selection.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you are a beginner or someone who values a responsive, smooth, and budget-friendly switch for general typing, gaming, or office work, then the G Pro 3.0 Red is an excellent choice. Its creamy, polished feel and neutral sound profile make it approachable for a wide variety of users and situations, while its compatibility with vibrant RGB lighting enhances the visual appeal of your setup. On the other hand, if you’re an enthusiast seeking a more refined and tactile experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) could be the better option. Its super smooth keystroke and thocky sound signature cater to those who appreciate an elevated auditory and tactile feedback without compromising on overall performance. The choice between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize a versatile, user-friendly typing experience or a more specialized, tactile experience that caters to keyboard aficionados.
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