Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Everglide Rice Pudding

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Gateron Ink Yellow, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and a travel distance that strikes a balance between typical mechanical keyboards and laptops, making it ideal for users who crave speed and accuracy in their typing. This switch is particularly favored for its 'neutral' yet 'clacky' sound profile, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to the typing process. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch utilizes hall effect technology to deliver a unique typing experience characterized by exceptionally smooth operation and a deep sound, making it an excellent choice for users seeking both satisfaction and precision. Additionally, Rice Pudding switches are fully compatible with Wooting keyboards, appealing to enthusiasts in search of enhanced versatility. Both switches offer distinct benefits depending on individual needs, whether it's the streamlined feel of the Ink Yellow or the satisfying depth of the Rice Pudding. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

Everglide Rice Pudding Hall Effect

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and Everglide Rice Pudding switches, notable differences arise in the characteristics of their top housings. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend that is designed to produce a pointed, high-pitched sound profile, which many users describe as "clacky." On the other hand, the Rice Pudding employs polycarbonate for its top housing, known for its stiffer nature, which gives rise to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer material not only enhances clarity and resonance in sound but also supports RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches aim for a higher-pitched sound, the method in which they achieve it differs, suggesting users may have different experiences, especially in the auditory feedback while typing.

Conversely, the bottom housings of these two switches introduce further distinction in their acoustic properties. The Ink Yellow's bottom housing, crafted from the same INK blend as its top, shares a similar high-pitched sound profile. This harmonization creates a consistent auditory experience, where the clackiness is uniform both while pressing and releasing the keys. In contrast, the Rice Pudding utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, a material traditionally known for fostering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic characteristics contribute to sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback, which can create a stark contrast to the sharper notes emitted from its polycarbonate top.

Therefore, when considering the overall sound experience of these two switches, the materials used in both the top and bottom housings play crucial roles. With the Ink Yellow integrating the same material in both housings, the consistency in sound profile is likely to appeal to users who prefer a unified auditory experience. Meanwhile, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Rice Pudding means the user will experience a diverse sound profile: clackiness fused with a more muted resonance. Ultimately, while both switches can deliver pronounced auditory feedback, the distinct materials of their housings dictate unique sound characteristics, and these contrasts could influence user preferences depending on whether they prefer clarity, sharpness, or a fuller sound.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch to the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Yellow features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option suitable for users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. In contrast, the Rice Pudding switch boasts a much lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which caters to those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, the Ink Yellow switch is the heavier of the two, while the Rice Pudding provides a more effortless keystroke experience. The significant difference in their force specifications means that users will experience a distinct typing feel, with the Ink Yellow offering more resistance and the Rice Pudding allowing for quicker, less tiring key presses.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, the performance in terms of key travel will be consistent, providing a unified typing experience regardless of which switch is used.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch delivers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by a combination of neutral tones and a clacky nature. It incorporates a moderately sharp and percussive sound profile, making it ideal for both casual typing at home and more serious work environments. This versatility allows it to cater to both beginners and experienced typists. On the other hand, while specifics about the sound profile of the Everglide Rice Pudding switch are not explicitly detailed, it is known to present a deep sound that enhances the overall typing experience. However, it’s important to note that switch sound can also greatly depend on the keyboard design and the choice of keycaps used.

Regarding feel, the Ink Yellow switch excels with its mild and polished tactile characteristics. The mild nature ensures a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for extensive typing sessions, while the polished finish reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel. This combination results in a refined feel that is approachable to a wide range of typists. Conversely, the feel qualities of the Rice Pudding switch are not defined, leaving a gap in understanding how it might compare. Without details on its texture and resistance, one would need to test it firsthand to gauge its tactile feedback accurately.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a clear understanding of its sound and feel qualities, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch remains somewhat of a mystery in comparison, particularly regarding its tactile sensation. The Ink Yellow presents a smooth, clacky auditory experience and an approachable, polished feel, suited for users seeking a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Rice Pudding's deep sound adds an element of intrigue, particularly for enthusiasts looking for versatility in their mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, a hands-on evaluation of the Rice Pudding will reveal its true nature, allowing users to make a more informed choice between these two unique switches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch boils down to your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that provides a tactile response with a pleasant clackiness and a shorter travel distance, the Ink Yellow is an excellent fit, especially if you're looking for a balance between laptop and traditional mechanical keyboard feel. Its neutral sound profile makes it versatile for both home and work environments, satisfying for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if your priority is a lighter switch that delivers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with deep sound, the Rice Pudding is highly recommended. Its compatibility with Wooting's keyboards also adds a level of versatility, making it ideal for gamers and enthusiasts seeking both performance and precision. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you value most in your typing experience—whether you lean towards the responsive clack and plush feel of the Ink Yellow or the smooth operation and versatility of the Rice Pudding.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Rice Pudding Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more