Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options like the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The Ink Black V2, a beloved linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth downstroke and rich sound profile, offering users a low-pitched, bassy clack that adds character to each keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter, yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) introduces a unique hall effect switch that boasts a balanced typing feel and a neutral sound signature that many enthusiasts adore for its distinct "thock." Notably, the Sticky Rice provides a super smooth keystroke due to its dustproof stem, ensuring reduced wobble and a refined tactile sensation, appealing to those who prioritize performance and comfort in their typing experience. While both switches present compelling benefits for different user preferences, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials that lead to differences in their auditory profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, producing a clackier, high-pitched sound that is sharp yet satisfying. This blend allows for an expressive acoustical experience that many typists find appealing. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) is crafted with a polycarbonate top housing, known for a crisper and clearer sound profile. Both switches prioritize a higher pitch, but the clarity of the polycarbonate may enhance the perception of brightness and resonance, particularly when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.

When it comes to their bottom housings, the differences further deepen the contrast between the two switches. The Ink Black V2 retains the proprietary INK blend material, which aligns sound qualities closely with its upper half, reinforcing the pointed and high-pitched acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) employs nylon for its bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound and deliver a fuller, rounder sound profile. This inherent softness in nylon creates a warmth that sets it apart from the sharper sound of the INK blend. Hence, while both switches may share a higher-pitched acoustic quality, the experience is colored significantly by the softer, deeper notes introduced by the nylon housing of the Everglide switch.

In considering the overall acoustic experience derived from these housing materials, one can appreciate how the unique characteristics of each contribute to differentiating typing experiences. The Ink Black V2 stands out for its clackiness and bright timbre attributed to the INK blend throughout both housing components. Meanwhile, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a contrasting sound profile with its combination of high-pitched clarity from its polycarbonate top and a softer, more muffled sound from its nylon bottom housing. By recognizing these distinctions, it becomes possible to understand how each switch furnishes a different auditory and tactile experience while providing some overlap in terms of the perceived pitch, thus appealing to diverse preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy and suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a much lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming. Therefore, if you're seeking a stronger push feel, the Ink Black V2 would be the better choice, while the Sticky Rice (V2) would be ideal for those who prioritize ease and comfort during prolonged use.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch differ in their travel distances, with the Ink Black V2 measuring 4 mm and the Sticky Rice (V2) at 3.5 mm. This makes the Sticky Rice (V2) the shorter option, offering quicker response times that are often favored by gamers looking for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a more deliberate typing experience. The difference in travel distance can impact the overall typing or gaming experience, as the shorter distance may feel more abrupt and less cushioned compared to the deeper actuation of the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, those who prioritize responsiveness might opt for the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), while users desiring a richer typing sensation may lean towards the Gateron Ink Black V2.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When examining the sound profile of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), distinct characteristics emerge. The Ink Black V2 is characterized by a low-pitched, bassy sound with a rich audio profile, giving it a depth that many enthusiasts appreciate. The presence of a chirpy element adds a unique acoustic signature, setting it apart from more conventional sound profiles. In comparison, the specific sound profile of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is not fully detailed; it is suggested to produce a neutral sound signature while hinting at the desirable "thock," which many users find appealing. However, without specific descriptors, it’s challenging to directly compare the aural experience of both switches, though one could expect a relatively muted and refined sound from the Sticky Rice.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a mild and polished typing experience. This switch’s mild properties suggest an approachable typing experience, making it suitable for a broad range of users. The polished nature means users can expect a smooth key travel with minimal friction, enhancing comfort during long typing sessions. Conversely, there’s no direct description available for the tactile feel of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), leaving that aspect rather ambiguous. However, its emphasis on a super smooth keystroke, aided by a dustproof design that reduces wobble, implies a refined typing sensation that may align closely with the luxurious feel that the Ink Black V2 provides.

In summation, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches exhibit qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ink Black V2 offers a rich sound characterized by bass and chirp, coupled with its mild and polished feel to create an enjoyable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Sticky Rice (V2) appears to promise a balanced audio experience with a thock-like signature, and a smooth keystroke, though its exact feel remains unspecified. For those who appreciate sound and tactility in their typing experience, the Gateron Ink Black V2 clearly delivers, while the Sticky Rice (V2) may present a strong alternative for similar qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound, and tactile experience. If you enjoy a heavier feel and a deep, bassy sound with a touch of chirp, the Ink Black V2 will likely be your switch of choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 70 grams may suit you if you prefer a more intentional keystroke, providing a satisfying feedback that enhances the typing experience, especially for longer sessions. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter, more refined typing experience with a balanced "thock" sound, then the Sticky Rice (V2) is an excellent option. With a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, it offers effortless keystrokes and an exceptionally smooth feel, thanks to its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. This makes it a compelling choice for those who appreciate a more subtle, polished typing experience without compromising on sound quality. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prefer the heft and depth of the Ink Black V2 or the lightness and elegance of the Sticky Rice (V2), so consider what aspects of typing and sound matter most to you.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more