KTT Lightning vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer two distinct experiences, catering to various preferences and usage scenarios. The KTT Lightning, known for its linear design, is geared towards speed enthusiasts who thrive in high-pressure situations where every millisecond counts. Its slick typing feel, combined with a clacky sound profile, provides a sense of excitement and responsiveness that some gamers and typists find irresistible. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes hall effect technology to deliver a smooth keystroke and a delightful "thock" sound signature that is often sought after by typing purists. Its dustproof design reduces wobble, ensuring a refined tactile sensation that appeals to those who prioritize performance and an exceptional touch experience. Each switch has its merits—whether you're looking for explosive speed or a balanced, satisfying feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Lightning Linear

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$3.41 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the KTT Lightning and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This shared material contributes to a higher-pitched acoustic response, attributable to polycarbonate's stiffness that ensures clarity and resonance during key presses. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes both switches visually appealing when paired with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic aspect of any keyboard setup. As a result, users of either switch can expect a similar auditory experience when engaging with the top housing, which is particularly noticeable when releasing a key.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the KTT Lightning and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is made from nylon, a material recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Unlike the top housing, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a sound that is generally rounder and less sharp. This difference means that the typing experience will feel distinct based on the bottom housing, with the nylon contributing to a smoother, more muted sound when bottoming out. While users will experience a noticeable difference in acoustic feedback during key presses, the combination of these materials creates a more balanced overall sound profile that can satisfy a variety of typing preferences.

The interplay between the polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms of both switches ensures that users enjoy a comprehensive auditory experience. For individuals seeking a keyboard with both clarity in feedback and a robust sound profile, either option will provide a similar effect due to their strategic use of materials. While the top housings excel in creating bright tones when the keys are released, the bottom housings add depth and warmth to the sound when a key is pressed down. Thus, despite the differences in sound characteristics brought on by the specific housing materials, the KTT Lightning and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) can be seen as complementary choices that cater to diverse preferences while maintaining a cohesive auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find some similarities and slight differences. The KTT Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly lower actuation force of 40 grams while sharing the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that while both switches bottom out at the same force—making their bottoming out experiences identical—the Sticky Rice (V2) requires less force to actuate a keystroke, making it the lighter option. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience to reduce fatigue during long sessions, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be the preferred choice. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial push might find the KTT Lightning more to their liking due to its slightly heavier actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The KTT Lightning switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it one of the shorter options available, ideal for gamers seeking rapid response times. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, offering a more pronounced feel that some users may prefer for a greater tactile experience. While both switches can deliver satisfying results, those who enjoy quicker actuation should lean towards the KTT Lightning, while those who favor a deeper and more deliberate press might find the Sticky Rice (V2) to be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch delivers a lively auditory experience characterized by a clacky profile. This sharp, crisp sound can be quite engaging during both typing and gaming sessions, enhancing the overall interactiveness of your keyboard. With high-pitched and chirpy tones to its sound, it provides a bright and percussive kick that appeals to those who enjoy a more animated noise while typing. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch is known for its neutral sound signature that leans towards the highly sought-after "thock," offering a more subdued and deep acoustic quality. This makes the Sticky Rice ideal for users who prefer a less intrusive sound that still provides satisfaction upon each keystroke. Both switches, however, will ultimately sound distinct based on the keyboard’s materials and design choices, such as the board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning provides a polished and subtle typing experience that emphasizes smoothness with a pleasurable level of resistance. This refined finish reduces friction and contributes to an overall fluid keystroke, making it suitable for both fast-paced gaming and typing. While the subjective tactile sensations of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) aren't explicitly described, the switch's design, featuring a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, hints at a high level of refinement in feel. Those who appreciate a balanced typing experience may find that both switches provide a level of smoothness that avoids any unwanted interruptions during use, even though the characteristics of each switch specialize in slightly different areas.

In conclusion, while the KTT Lightning and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches each present unique sound and feel characteristics— with the former offering a clacky and lively auditory experience and the latter leaning towards a deeper, thock-like sound—both can deliver smooth typing experiences that cater to varying preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Lightning excels in providing an energized response, making it ideal for competitive scenarios, whereas the Sticky Rice appears to offer a more refined and balanced typing feel. Ultimately, personal preferences in sound and feel will dictate which switch suits you best, but both are capable of providing satisfying results.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch will largely depend on your specific preferences and needs as a typist or gamer. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness, especially in competitive gaming scenarios where reaction times are crucial, the KTT Lightning switch is an excellent option. Its light bottom-out force and clacky sound profile offer an engaging, tactile experience that can keep you alert and focused during intense sessions. Conversely, if you are looking for a smoother and more refined typing experience suitable for both gaming and extensive typing work, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch stands out. Its balanced feel and dustproof design provide an ultra-smooth keystroke coupled with a neutral thock sound that many enthusiasts appreciate. Ultimately, weigh your preferences for sound and feel against your intended use, and you'll be able to make an informed choice that enhances your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more