Huano Grape Orange vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The Grape Orange, with its impressively light actuation force of just 40g, provides a linear switch ideal for users seeking a seamless and effortless typing experience, making it particularly suitable for marathon typing sessions or rapid gaming. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a hall effect design that delivers a balanced typing experience accented by a smooth keystroke and a satisfying "thock" sound that many enthusiasts crave. Its dustproof stem further enhances performance by minimizing wobble and ensuring reliability. While the Grape Orange excels in providing ease of use and speed, the Sticky Rice (V2) shines through its refined tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Huano Grape Orange and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) are identical in their construction, featuring polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The shared use of polycarbonate is notable, as it yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. This stiffer plastic enhances clarity and resonance, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. As both switches employ polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing, characterized by a bright and vibrant sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials differ in their impact on the sound profile and tactile experience. Both the Grape Orange and the Sticky Rice (V2) utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which is well-regarded for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, creating a contrasting effect with the brighter tones produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The nylon bottom adds a level of dampening, contributing to a rounder sound that rounds out the overall acoustic experience of each switch.
Ultimately, while both the Huano Grape Orange and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share similar materials in their top and bottom housings, the interplay between these two types of plastics allows for a nuanced audio experience. The combination of a crisp top housing made of polycarbonate and a softer, sound-absorbing nylon bottom results in a balanced sound profile that caters to different preferences among typists. Therefore, users can anticipate a cohesive and inviting auditory feedback from both switches, despite the distinct characteristics of the top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find that they are quite similar in both actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches require an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which classifies them as light options. This parity means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key feel and resistance, making either switch suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. Those who prefer a lighter touch will appreciate the ease of actuation, while those who favor a more tactile typing experience can find satisfaction in the consistent, manageable resistance both switches provide. Ultimately, with both switches offering the same force specifications, users will enjoy comparable performance regardless of their choice.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Grape Orange switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch showcases a minor yet noteworthy difference that can influence your typing experience. The Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Sticky Rice (V2) the more responsive option, likely appealing to gamers looking for quicker actuation. In contrast, the Grape Orange, with its longer travel distance, can provide a more substantial keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Therefore, if you favor quick response times, the Sticky Rice (V2) might be your optimal choice; however, if you appreciate a deeper keystroke, the Grape Orange would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange 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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch does not have a specific sound profile detailed, which leaves some ambiguity regarding its auditory characteristics. However, it’s often assumed that linear switches like the Grape Orange tend to produce a quieter, less pronounced sound compared to tactile or clicky switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a muted typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is characterized by its low-pitched sound signature, which conveys a mellow and bass-heavy tone. This “thock” sound often sought after by enthusiasts can enhance the overall typing experience, providing an auditory satisfaction that complements the tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force of 40g, allowing for a seamless and effortless typing experience. This lightweight touch makes it particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch offers a beautifully polished feel, thanks to its dustproof stem that reduces wobble and friction. This results in a smooth, silky keystroke that many users describe as buttery and mild, ensuring a gentle typing experience that is both refined and approachable. The combination of these textures makes the Sticky Rice a compelling option for users who appreciate a nuanced tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the Huano Grape Orange and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches cater to different preferences but share a commitment to enhancing the typing experience. The Grape Orange's ultra-light resistance is well-suited for long sessions, delivering a quiet typing experience, albeit with less information on its sound profile. Meanwhile, the Sticky Rice presents an audible thock with a polished and smooth keystroke, ideal for those seeking tactile satisfaction. For users prioritizing sound, the Sticky Rice may have a clear advantage, while the Grape Orange excels in providing a lightweight touch. Ultimately, the choice will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, along with the type of typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions, the Grape Orange is a fantastic option with its ultra-low 40g actuation force. Its characteristics make it an excellent choice for anyone who desires a keyboard that feels easy to type on without much resistance. On the other hand, if you're in the market for a switch that offers a smooth and polished feel, combined with the coveted "thock" sound profile, the Sticky Rice (V2) is likely to suit your needs more effectively. Its balance of tactile feedback and auditory experience makes it ideal for users who appreciate a more refined typing sensation without veering into overwhelming characteristics. Therefore, consider what matters most to you in terms of typing feel, sound, and overall experience, as either choice will provide a quality mechanical keyboard experience tailored to different needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
