TTC Gold Pink vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, each option brings its own unique characteristics tailored to different preferences and needs. The TTC Gold Pink switch is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 37g, making it a go-to choice for users who prioritize speed and ease, whether in fast-paced gaming or rapid typing scenarios. Its clacky sound offers satisfying auditory feedback, ensuring every keystroke feels lively and responsive. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a well-balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile that produces a desirable "thock" sound beloved by enthusiasts. This switch's dustproof stem contributes to its smooth keystroke and minimizes wobble, catering to those seeking a refined tactile feeling without sacrificing practicality. While the Gold Pink excels in delivering a quick and energetic typing experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) prides itself on a polished and stable performance ideal for longer typing sessions. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Pink and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contributes to a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tone. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucent nature of polycarbonate, making them especially compatible with RGB lighting setups. In both cases, users can expect a bright sound profile when engaged with the top housing, as both switches utilize this material to its fullest potential. Consequently, users can achieve comparable auditory experiences when using either switch due to the identical top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing of each switch diverges slightly, as both the TTC Gold Pink and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilize nylon for their bottom casings. Nylon's characteristics contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a spherical quality to the overall auditory experience. Unlike the rigid polycarbonate of the top housing, the relatively softer nylon absorbs sound, diminishing harshness and resulting in a more rounded acoustic signature during key presses. This means that while users will find both switches to produce a high-pitched tone when keys are released, the bottom-out sound and feel will carry a more muffled depth consistent with the properties of nylon.
Ultimately, the combined effect of these housing materials means that both the Gold Pink and the Sticky Rice (V2) can deliver a balanced typing experience. The polycarbonate top ensures bright, clear auditory feedback when keys are lifted, while the nylon bottom introduces a contrasting depth to the sound during key presses. This synergy allows users to enjoy a well-rounded acoustic profile that embodies the strengths of both materials, providing a consistent performance whether one chooses the TTC Gold Pink or the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). By understanding how these materials interact within the switch, users can select a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we observe some noteworthy differences in their force measurements. The Gold Pink features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as the heavier switch. While both switches offer a light typing experience, the Gold Pink allows for even easier keystrokes, which can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its higher forces, may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a firmer push. Ultimately, if you seek a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the TTC Gold Pink would be the better choice, whereas those desiring a stronger feedback might gravitate towards the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2).
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference highlights the preference for varied tactile experiences in key switches: the Gold Pink's longer travel distance may appeal to those who favor a more traditional feel with a more substantial depth, providing a satisfying feedback during use. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) with its shorter travel distance caters to gamers and users who prioritize quicker response times, allowing for faster actuation and potentially improved performance in competitive settings. Thus, the Gold Pink switch is the longer option at 4 mm, and the Sticky Rice (V2) is the shorter option at 3.5 mm. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced travel experience or a snappier, more responsive press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 TTC Gold Pink linear switches produce a clacky sound that adds a lively character to typing or gaming sessions. This sound creates a dynamic auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable, particularly when engaging in fast-paced tasks. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches feature a neutral sound signature that leans towards the “thock” sound preferred by enthusiasts. The contrast between the pronounced clack of the Gold Pink and the more subdued thock of the Sticky Rice (V2) shows how each switch caters to different auditory preferences, making it essential for users to consider how they want their keyboard to sound in their chosen environment.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Pink switches excel with their buttery, mild, and feathery characteristics, designed for effortless keystrokes that can significantly reduce finger fatigue. This results in a typing experience that is not only light and enjoyable but also accessible, making it suitable for extended use. In contrast, while the feel of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has yet to be fully articulated, it is known for providing a super smooth keystroke that minimizes wobble due to its dustproof stem. This refined sensation indicates that the Sticky Rice (V2) likely delivers a polished feel as well, which may appeal to those who appreciate a more nuanced tactile experience.
Ultimately, both the TTC Gold Pink and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different user preferences. The Gold Pink favors a lightweight and lively typing experience with its clacky feedback, while the Sticky Rice (V2) leans towards a refined, thock-inspired sound and smooth keystroke, suggesting a more sophisticated typing experience. Choosing between them will largely depend on what qualities are most important to you—whether it’s the exuberance of a lively clack or the elegant subtlety of a controlled thock—but either option promises to deliver an engaging typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your unique preferences and typing needs. If you're someone who values a fast and effortless typing experience, especially for rapid gaming or typing scenarios, the Gold Pink will likely serve you best. With its extremely light actuation force, buttery feel, and clacky sound, it's perfect for those looking to maximize speed and enjoy a lively interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, if you're after a more refined and balanced typing sensation, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the way to go. With a slightly higher actuation force and a neutral sound signature that leans into the satisfying "thock" that enthusiasts crave, this switch provides a smooth keystroke that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions without compromising on feel. Therefore, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize speed and a more engaging auditory experience or a polished, tactile feel with understated sound for a balanced typing environment.
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