HMX Jelly vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two distinct yet appealing options tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Jelly, a linear switch, is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature and an impressively smooth keystroke made possible by its excellent factory lube. With a lightweight actuation force of only 42 grams, these switches cater to users who enjoy a quiet, unencumbered typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), classified as a hall effect switch, offers a balanced typing experience that harmonizes sound and feel. It features a neutral sound signature that still manages to deliver the sought-after "thock" sound, complemented by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances overall performance. This makes the Sticky Rice particularly appealing to users looking for a refined tactile sensation. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the smooth, lightweight responsiveness of the HMX Jelly or the balanced tactile feedback of the Sticky Rice (V2), both switches have their own unique advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) both exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Jelly employs a nylon top housing, noted for its softer texture that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This material's inherent softness leads to a more muted sound, providing a warm typing experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) is designed with a polycarbonate top housing, which is considerably stiffer. The use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is crisper and clearer compared to nylon. Users who prefer a more resonant sound might gravitate toward the Sticky Rice (V2) for its lively acoustic response, particularly appealing to those who appreciate the aesthetic and performance benefits of RGB lighting due to the material’s translucency.
When examining the bottom housings of these switches, it’s interesting to note that both the Jelly and Sticky Rice (V2) utilize nylon. This commonality means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, the bottom housing attributes could evoke a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound, contributing to a duller yet satisfying bottom-out feel that is often favored among typists who prefer a more muted key press experience. The impact of this softness is particularly pronounced when the switch is fully engaged, ensuring a consistent tactile feedback that can be appreciated across both models, making for a potentially consistent user experience despite the variation in top housing materials.
The interaction between the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) highlights the complexity of switch dynamics. While the Jelly’s nylon top creates a more subdued typing sound, the Sticky Rice's polycarbonate top introduces a vibrant clarity that can elevate the typing experience. However, due to both switches sharing nylon in their bottom housings, users will experience a similar tactile sensation and sound dampening effect when bottoming out. This means that while the acoustic experiences differ at the initial engagement and release, both switches can yield satisfying results for typists seeking a balance of sound character and tactile feedback, albeit through different acoustic signatures derived from their distinct top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both switches fall into the category of lighter switches, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. The HMX Jelly has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a slightly lighter actuation force at 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Although the Jelly requires a bit more force to actuate, both switches offer a similar bottom out force, promoting a consistent typing experience. In terms of weight, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the lighter choice in terms of actuation, which might appeal to users looking for a more effortless keypress, while the Jelly's heavier actuation may provide a bit more resistance, offering a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are subtle, catering to different user preferences for typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Jelly switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Jelly switch offers a slightly deeper travel experience, which may be more favorable for users who prefer that traditional feel. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a quicker response due to its shorter distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers seeking rapid input. Therefore, if responsiveness is a priority, the Everglide's 3.5 mm distance may be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial key press might opt for the HMX Jelly's 3.8 mm travel. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance can significantly affect the overall typing experience, catering to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 HMX Jelly linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that resonates with enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. This makes the Jelly a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying acoustic experience while typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more neutral sound signature that still captures the essence of the coveted "thock," striking a balance between subtlety and clarity. While both switches produce pleasing sounds, the Jelly's deep thock may provide a more resonant feedback compared to the decidedly balanced nature of the Sticky Rice (V2). It's essential to remember that the final sound produced can significantly depend on the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jelly switch stands out due to its super smooth keystrokes, attributed to excellent factory lubrication combined with a lightweight actuation force of 42g. This makes it a joy to type on, allowing for rapid and comfortable keystrokes. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) also boasts a super smooth keystroke, enhanced by its dustproof stem that reduces wobble and contributes to a refined tactile sensation. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the Jelly's lightweight actuation makes it more appealing for those who enjoy sensitive, rapid key presses, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a slightly more stable feel without sacrificing smoothness.
In summary, the HMX Jelly linear switch and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch present compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, each with its unique attributes. The Jelly's low-pitched thocky sound resonates deeper, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more balanced auditory profile. Both switches provide exceptional smoothness in actuation, although the Jelly's lighter actuation force may cater to those who prefer quicker responsiveness. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate which switch better suits individual typing habits, but both are designed to deliver high-quality performance and satisfying user experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light touch and enjoy a deeper, more pronounced sound with a thocky quality, the Jelly is an excellent option. Its smoothness and lower actuation force make it ideal for quick, effortless keystrokes, which can enhance your typing speed and comfort over long sessions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more balanced and versatile experience with a neutral sound signature that still offers that satisfying thock, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be the better choice for you. The enhanced performance of its dustproof stem ensures minimal wobble, providing a refined tactile sensation that many typists find appealing. In summary, choose the Jelly if you want lightness and thock, but go for the Sticky Rice if you value a balanced feel with a smooth, stable keystroke. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, catering to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
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