Durock Mamba vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Mamba and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) both offer unique attributes tailored to different typing preferences. The Durock Mamba, celebrated for its tribute to Kobe Bryant, is a linear switch that provides a smooth and gliding typing sensation accompanied by a rich and creamy auditory experience. With its classification as 'Neutral,' 'Mild,' 'Thocky,' and 'Polished,' the Mamba is ideal for typists seeking a subtly enjoyable experience without the distraction of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) takes a different approach with its hall effect design, presenting a delightfully balanced typing experience characterized by a neutral sound signature that leans into the coveted "thock" that enthusiasts adore. The super smooth keystroke, enhanced by its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, offers refined tactile feedback that many users find deeply satisfying. Both switches have their merits — the Mamba for its linear smoothness and auditory pleasure, and the Sticky Rice for its tactile refinement and minimal wobble. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Mamba Linear

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a striking difference is observed between their top components. The Mamba’s top housing blends polymer nylon and UHMWPE, producing a sound profile that is described as bright yet pleasant, striking a balance that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) employs polycarbonate as its top housing material, resulting in a sound profile that is sharper and crisper due to the increased stiffness of polycarbonate. While both materials offer unique auditory experiences, the Mamba’s blend leans towards a more muted brightness, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) pushes for a more pronounced resonance. Therefore, despite the differences in material, users can achieve satisfying acoustics although with varying textures and tonal qualities.

Looking further into the bottom housing, we find another divergence in the materials used. The Durock Mamba utilizes POM, which provides a deep, relatively muted sound profile, enhancing the overall sound dynamics of the switch. Meanwhile, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is outfitted with nylon for its bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. While POM creates a certain subdued quality, nylon’s softness offers a warmer embrace to the sound waves, contributing to a round and rich feel. Together, these differences lead to distinct bottom-out sounds and tactile feelings when pressed, showcasing how bottom housing can significantly impact the user’s engagement with the switch.

When these switches are combined, they reveal how the top and bottom housing materials jointly contribute to the overall experience of a switch. While the bottom housing determines much of the bottom-out sound and feel, the influence of the top housing becomes evident when releasing a key. This means that even if the top and bottom housings differ in material, as seen with the Mamba and Sticky Rice (V2), the distinct tonal qualities they each possess can work together to produce a cohesive sound experience. Users looking to tailor their typing experience can find satisfaction in the unique interplay between the two materials, achieving similar results in depth and clarity, albeit through their individual sound signatures.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Mamba linear switch with the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mamba has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorized as medium. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the Durock switch could offer a heavier feel due to its higher bottom out force, its unknown actuation force complicates a direct comparison. Meanwhile, the Everglide switch is generally considered lighter, making it more suitable for users who prefer a pressure-sensitive typing experience that allows for longer usage without fatigue. Therefore, if you favor a softer touch with a substantial bottoming out feel, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) would be the better choice, while the Mamba's heavier characteristics may appeal to those who enjoy a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that they share the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. This identical travel distance ensures that users will experience a similar depth of key press, contributing to a comparable typing and gaming experience. Since both switches have the same specifications in this regard, users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and feel when operating either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When examining the sound characteristics of the Durock Mamba linear switch, you'll notice a rich auditory quality that leans towards a thocky profile, delivering deep and satisfying acoustics as you type. This auditory experience can be particularly enjoyable in environments where the resonant "thud" or soft "knock" adds to the tactile delight of switching. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is noted for its neutral sound signature, which hints at the desirable "thock" that many keyboard enthusiasts covet. While the Mamba's sound is more overtly engaging, the Sticky Rice (V2) may provide a more subtle and less invasive auditory backdrop, making it suitable for quieter settings where you still want a pleasing sound. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying acoustics, albeit in different ways, and your choice may depend on your sound preferences and the environment in which you type.

In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba is characterized by a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of these switches offers a gentle touch that doesn’t overwhelm the user, making it suitable for long typing sessions. The polished finish allows for smooth key travel with reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the tactile qualities of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) are also designed to provide a smooth keystroke, thanks in part to the dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. While the specific descriptors for the feel of Sticky Rice (V2) aren’t provided, its reputation suggests that it prioritizes a refined experience, similar to that of the Mamba when it comes to smooth typing. Therefore, while the Mamba presents a mild yet polished feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) is likely to offer a similarly satisfying tactile experience, though the precise sensations may differ slightly.

In conclusion, both the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch are designed to offer an enjoyable typing experience, with each having unique auditory and tactile qualities. The Mamba stands out for its rich, thocky sound and smooth, polished feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate a deep auditory experience alongside comfort. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) may appeal to those who prefer a more neutral sound while still valuing a super smooth keystroke and a refined typing sensation. Both options provide distinct experiences while sharing a common goal of enhancing user satisfaction, making the choice between them largely dependent on personal preference concerning sound and feel.

Conclusion

In closing, the choice between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a gliding typing sensation with a rich, creamy auditory experience, the Mamba is an excellent choice. It's ideal for both casual typists and those who appreciate a balanced feel without being overly aggressive, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a smooth keystroke and an emphasis on a refined tactile sensation, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be more up your alley. Its 50-gram bottom-out force, combined with the polished performance characteristics, caters to those who value a dustproof design that enhances stability and reduces wobble. Additionally, the neutral "thock" sound signature makes it appealing for enthusiasts seeking that satisfying auditory feedback while typing. Therefore, consider your specific needs regarding actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Mamba Linear

$6.50

$5.17 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more