PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch present two appealing yet distinct options. The Milk Tea switch, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its unique auditory profile; it combines a high-pitched sound with a muted character, achieving a gentle blend that feels both lively and smooth. Its use of Ly for the stem material ensures that each keystroke requires minimal effort, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a clacky, high-pitched experience that still maintains an overall polished touch. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more balanced typing experience, boasting a neutral sound signature while delivering the sought-after "thock" that many enthusiasts crave. With its dustproof stem design that minimizes wobble, this switch is ideal for those who prioritize a refined tactile sensation without compromising feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, making the choice an essential part of your custom keyboard journey; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37.5g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Milk Tea utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a sound that is deeper and more muted, providing a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer composition. This stiffer nature allows the polycarbonate to resonate more clearly, delivering a sound that is brighter and more pronounced, particularly beneficial for those who appreciate an articulate audio experience in their keystrokes.
Examining the bottom housings reveals another layer of contrast between the two switches. The Milk Tea employs a POM bottom housing that, similar to its top counterpart, contributes to a sound profile that is deep and muted. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) incorporates a nylon bottom housing, celebrated for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer material properties. This absorption results in a deeper and fuller sound that contrasts with the Milk Tea’s characteristics. Thus, while both switches are designed to create distinct acoustic environments, their differing materials serve to emphasize different elements of the overall typing sound—POM for a cohesive muted feel versus nylon for a fuller auditory experience.
Though the Milk Tea and Sticky Rice (V2) utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the way each material interacts can be understood in terms of their contributions to sound dynamics. The impact of the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out sound during typing, while the top housing affects the sound released during key release. When comparing both switches, those seeking a harmonious and cohesive typing experience may find satisfaction in the Milk Tea’s consistent POM profiles. Conversely, those who desire the higher resonance and crispness can focus on the Everest Glide, which leverages polycarbonate on top. Regardless of the differences, both will produce satisfying auditory feedback, albeit through contrasting sound profiles shaped by their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can impact user experience significantly. The Milk Tea switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it a more forgiving option for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial feel during typing. Although both switches are classified as light, the Milk Tea switch is ultimately the lighter choice. Users who appreciate a more delicate touch may gravitate towards the Milk Tea, while those preferring a firmer, more tactile typing experience might find the Sticky Rice (V2) more satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find that the Milk Tea switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Milk Tea switch provides a bit more depth when pressed, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback during use. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as it allows for a more immediate actuation. Overall, if you value a deeper feel in your keystrokes, the Milk Tea is the preferable option, whereas if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Sticky Rice (V2) could be the better fit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
The auditory qualities of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch deliver a distinctive experience characterized by its high-pitched, clacky resonance. The sound is sharp and crisp, balanced with a muted tone that avoids being overwhelmingly loud, creating a clean and refined auditory feedback. This high-pitched sound coupled with its marbly and resonant attributes allows it to stand out by appealing to those who appreciate a more present and clear typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) does not provide specific sound descriptors, which leaves a potential gap in definitive auditory impression; however, it is noted that the switch offers a neutral sound signature, which likely yields a more understated typing experience. Consequently, while the Milk Tea provides a more engaging auditory feedback with its clacky and resonant qualities, the Sticky Rice (V2) may favor those who prefer a quieter, less intrusive sound profile.
When assessing the feel of both switches, the Milk Tea truly shines with descriptors like polished and silky, suggesting that it offers an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is attributed to the materials used, alongside possible factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction during key presses and improved overall fluidity when typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) emphasizes a super smooth keystroke due to its dustproof stem, reducing wobble and enhancing overall performance, although specific descriptors for its tactile feel have not been provided. Hence, both switches are configured to deliver a luxurious typing experience with minimal resistance, but the Milk Tea brings an additional layer of smoothness and refinement through its carefully chosen materials and manufacturing enhancements.
In conclusion, while both the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) may cater to different auditory preferences, they converge on the shared quality of providing a refined and smooth typing experience. The Milk Tea's unique high-pitched auditory signature contrasts with the more neutral sound of the Sticky Rice, catering to diverse user preferences. In terms of feel, both switches excel with their smooth keystrokes, making them excellent choices for those who seek a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize a sharper sound with the Milk Tea or the subtler sound profile of the Sticky Rice while enjoying the smoothness both switches offer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you gravitate towards a lighter, more effortless typing experience with a unique auditory profile that combines a high-pitched but muted sound, the Milk Tea switch is an excellent option. Its polished and silky feel ensures a smooth keystroke, making it particularly well-suited for fast-paced typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and are seeking a more refined, muted auditory experience that leans towards the "thock" quality beloved by many keyboard enthusiasts, the Sticky Rice (V2) is your best bet. It provides a balanced typing sensation with enhanced stability, thanks to its dustproof design, making it suitable for both typing and gaming without compromising on performance or feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will hinge on whether you prioritize a lighter, more airy feel with a distinct sonic character or a grounded, smooth typing experience with a satisfying auditory signature.
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