Keygeek Keylin vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two options that stand out are the Keygeek Keylin and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). The Keylin, a linear switch, is celebrated for its premium typing experience, offering remarkable smoothness and rich acoustics thanks to its new mold design. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a seamless keystroke without any tactile bumps, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who value speed and a consistent feel. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employs a hall effect design that delivers a well-balanced typing experience characterized by its neutral sound profile, which enthusiasts often describe as having the coveted "thock." With its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, the Sticky Rice (V2) is tailored for users who appreciate a refined tactile sensation coupled with an elegant auditory feedback. While both switches cater to different preferences—smoothness versus tactile satisfaction—both hold their unique allure in the mechanical keyboard landscape. 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

Keygeek Keylin Linear

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it's evident that there are notable differences in the top housings that significantly influence the overall sound profile of each switch. The Keylin features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This softness results in a duller and rounder auditory experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a warmer typing sound. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of the polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, allowing for a pronounced auditory response that can be particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience.

When examining the bottom housings, both the Keylin and the Sticky Rice (V2) employ nylon materials, which are well-regarded for their sound-absorbing properties. This consistency means that the characteristic deep and full sound experience—associated with the nylon housing—will be present in both switches when typing. Since the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel more prominently, users can expect a similar tactile experience in that regard, offering a satisfying resistance and auditory feedback upon key actuation. This overlap in bottom housing material helps to maintain a cohesive sound profile that balances the tonal quality introduced by the different top housing materials.

Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials lead to distinct auditory experiences while maintaining a similar tactile feedback due to the nylon used in both switches' bottom housings. The Keylin's nylon upper results in a warm, rich sound, making it suitable for users who value a muted typing experience. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) capitalizes on the clarity provided by its polycarbonate top housing, appealing to those who favor a sharper, brighter sound. Together, these elements illustrate how the interplay between different housing materials contributes to the user experience in terms of both sound and feel, catering to a wide range of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The Keygeek Keylin linear switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches are considered light, making them suitable for users who require a less strenuous typing experience, which can be particularly beneficial during extended periods of use, such as work or gaming sessions. In terms of weight, the Keylin is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Sticky Rice (V2), which is marginally heavier. This means that while both switches allow for a relatively comfortable typing experience, the Keylin may offer a slightly easier keystroke, appealing to those who prioritize a lighter touch. However, for users who prefer a more substantial feel with a stronger push, the Sticky Rice (V2) may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, while both switches produce similar results, the Keylin's lighter forces make it a better choice for those looking for prolonged comfort.

Travel distance

The Keygeek Keylin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that offers a bit more depth when pressed, the Keylin may be the better option for you, as it provides a more substantial feel compared to its counterpart. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) delivers a more responsive, quicker actuation, making it potentially more favorable for gamers who prioritize speed. Overall, while the difference in travel distance is minimal, those who enjoy a hearty depth will prefer the Keylin, whereas the more reactive feel of the Sticky Rice (V2) may appeal to those seeking rapid response times.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is renowned for its rich acoustics that create a pleasing auditory experience when typing, contributing to an overall premium feel. This richness can add an immersive quality to the typing experience, especially in a well-built keyboard rig. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more neutral sound signature, leading to that desirable "thock" which many enthusiasts seek. While it doesn't aim for the same richness as the Keylin, its balanced sound can still be quite satisfying, particularly when paired with the right keycaps and keyboard layout. Both switches can provide an enjoyable auditory experience, but the Keylin leans towards a more pronounced sound profile, while the Sticky Rice focuses on balance and subtlety.

When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch boasts exceptional smoothness that makes for a very pleasant typing experience. It emphasizes a seamless keystroke, likely appealing to those who value a luxurious and fluid typing sensation. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) emphasizes not only smoothness, thanks to its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, but also offers a refined tactile sensation that some users may find absolutely delightful. While the Keylin may prioritize smoothness, the Sticky Rice pairs that smoothness with a more pronounced sense of stability, creating a remarkably balanced feel that can be attractive for users who want a combination of tactile feedback without sacrificing speed.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch provide distinct experiences through sound and feel. The Keylin excels in acoustics and a fluid typing experience, while the Sticky Rice shines with its neutral sound and refined, stable keystroke feel. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you prioritize a luxurious acoustic experience or a balanced typing feel; both can offer satisfying results depending on how they're incorporated into a keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, your choice largely depends on your typing preferences and the overall experience you're seeking. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and acoustically rich typing experience, the Keylin linear switch, with its light 48-gram actuation, will likely serve you well. It's perfect for users who enjoy a softer keystroke and are looking for a premium feel during both gaming and typing. Conversely, if you value a balanced typing sensation paired with a satisfying sound signature and the tactile feedback of a refined keystroke, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its 50-gram actuation, would be more suitable for you. This switch caters to enthusiasts who appreciate the "thock" sound and a solid performance, thanks to its dustproof design that minimizes wobble. Ultimately, both switches provide unique benefits, so consider your own needs, such as how much you type, your sound preferences, and desired tactile feedback, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more