Gateron Mountain Top vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mountain Top and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer distinct advantages tailored to different user preferences and environments. The Mountain Top, designed primarily for office settings, features a quiet yet mildly audible typing experience, making it ideal for those who favor discreet operation during extended typing sessions. Its bouncy, easy-to-press actuation is well-suited for a professional environment where a light touch is paramount. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) caters to enthusiasts seeking a more tactile experience, boasting a neutral sound signature and the beloved "thock" that many users yearn for. Its super smooth keystroke, enhanced by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, provides a refined feel while maintaining performance. Both switches excel in their own domains—whether you prioritize noise reduction and ease of use, or a satisfying tactile sensation and sound. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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 double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), notable differences emerge between their top housings. The Mountain Top employs nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs sound efficiently. This results in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, which is stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This distinctive characteristic not only contributes to the overall sound signature but also enhances the switch's visual appeal, particularly in configurations that utilize RGB lighting because of polycarbonate's translucency. Thus, users who value auditory depth might prefer the Mountain Top, while those seeking clarity and brightness may gravitate towards the Sticky Rice (V2).
While the top housing materials differ significantly, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality means that both switches will deliver a similar experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback at the bottom-out point. The nylon bottom housing, soft in nature, absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a dull and rounded auditory experience when a key is fully pressed. Consequently, both switches will exhibit a consistent lower-register sound and tactile experience when bottomed out, emphasizing their shared foundation in performance. The choice of nylon contributes to a satisfying keypress feel that many typists appreciate.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials create a unique dichotomy between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), while the shared nylon bottom housing fosters a certain degree of similarity. When using these switches, the auditory experience may be enhanced or diminished depending on the keypress's release versus the bottom-out contact, depending on which switch one chooses. Ultimately, users can achieve a tailored experience based on whether they value a deeper sound with softer materials or a sharper clarity that highlights brighter acoustics, all while maintaining consistency in the bottom-out feedback due to the shared nylon bottom housing. This combination offers a diverse landscape for enthusiasts seeking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both switches align closely in their actuation and bottom out forces. Each switch requires a light actuation force of 40 grams, as well as a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke feedback and overall typing experience. Since both switches offer the same weight specifications, they cater to those who prefer a lighter touch, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or intensive gaming marathons. In this case, neither switch is heavier than the other, thus offering comparable feel and performance without a significant difference in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, a slight difference is noteworthy. The Mountain Top switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter of the two, while the Sticky Rice (V2) measures a bit longer at 3.5 mm. This 0.1 mm difference could affect users' typing experiences; gamers who prioritize speed might prefer the Mountain Top's shorter travel distance for quick response times. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial actuation feel may find the additional depth of the Sticky Rice (V2) more satisfying. Overall, while both switches have relatively similar travel distances and can cater to different preferences, the subtle difference gives them distinct characteristics that may influence a user's choice based on their typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is crafted for a neutral auditory experience, striking a balance that caters to both novice and seasoned typists. It provides a moderate sound profile that allows for effective typing in both office and home environments without drawing unnecessary attention. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch carries a more nuanced sound quality, characterized by a subtle "thock" that many keyboard enthusiasts cherish. This auditory aspect, coupled with its smooth keystroke, positions the Sticky Rice (V2) as an appealing option for those who value refined acoustics in their typing experience.
Regarding the feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch boasts a bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to a lightweight actuation force that requires minimal effort to press. This makes extended typing sessions considerably comfortable, reducing finger fatigue while maintaining an overall mild and snappy sensation. The switch's design provides a gentle resistance, enhancing comfort, especially in shared settings. On the other hand, the specifics of the feel for the Sticky Rice (V2) remain unknown, but it is generally known to offer a refined typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and reducing wobble, which could suggest a pleasant tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both Gateron Mountain Top and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches deliver distinct advantages based on the qualities they emphasize. The Mountain Top is ideal for a discreet yet engaging typing experience, making it perfect for professional and shared environments. The Sticky Rice (V2), while celebrated for its sound and possibly enhanced smoothness, caters to those looking for a more defined acoustic character alongside a refined keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one prioritizes a neutral sound in a professional setting or the rich auditory feedback favored by enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it's essential to consider your specific typing needs and environment. If you often find yourself in an office setting or shared workspace, the Mountain Top switch is an excellent option due to its quieter sound profile and light actuation force, allowing for discreet yet responsive typing that minimizes distractions for yourself and others. The bouncy and snappy feel of these switches enhances comfort during prolonged use, making them suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned typists. On the other hand, if you value a refined, tactile experience with a more pronounced "thock" sound and seek a switch designed for personal enjoyment or even light gaming, the Sticky Rice (V2) would be the ideal choice. Its smooth keystrokes and dustproof stem provide a balanced typing experience that enhances both performance and satisfaction. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize discretion and ease for professional environments or a satisfying feel and auditory feedback for personal enjoyment, guiding you to the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
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