Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is celebrated for its refined tactile experience, characterized by a short, medium-strength bump that allows for a more engaged typing feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback during use. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch is notable for its combination of smooth operation and a deep, satisfying sound, providing a balanced typing experience that emphasizes precision, making it an enticing option for users who prioritize both acoustics and performance. Additionally, the Rice Pudding switches' full compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards adds to their versatility for keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches cater to distinct preferences—tactility versus smoothness—it's essential to consider individual typing styles and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Everglide Rice Pudding switch utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the auditory experience they provide. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture that absorbs sound and contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent qualities of nylon allow for a warmer auditory experience, resulting in a rumbling sound that can feel more muted compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and therefore creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant color illumination and a crisper auditory feedback that highlights every keystroke. Together, these materials define the character of each switch, crafting distinct auditory signatures during use.
Interestingly, both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings, which introduces a more cohesive element to their overall sound profile. As nylon is noted for its ability to absorb sound, this factor tends to generate a deeper and rounder sound from both switches when bottoming out. This consistency in bottom housing material means that regardless of the differing top housing materials, both switches will share a similarity in that profound auditory foundation when pressed down. Users can expect a rich bottom-out experience that feels satisfyingly muted and resonates deeply, irrespective of the top housing type influencing the release sound.
The synergy of differing top and bottom housing materials in these switches highlights an engaging contrast in their overall acoustic performance. The active material layering creates a divide where the top housing predominantly impacts the release sound, while the bottom housing enhances the bottom-out experience. Those who prioritize a sharper sound profile may find solace in the Rice Pudding's polycarbonate top, whereas enthusiasts of a deeper, more resonant sound may prefer the nylon top found in the Cherry MX Purple RGB. Ultimately, the choice between these two comes down to personal preference, though the shared nylon bottom does ensure a familiar experience when bottoming out, regardless of the switch selected.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, we see a noticeable difference in actuation force. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Everglide Rice Pudding switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons might find the Rice Pudding switch more comfortable. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Purple RGB does not have this measurement available, whereas the Rice Pudding switch has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully press down than its actuation force suggests, creating a distinct tactile sensation. While both switches offer unique tactile experiences, the MX Purple RGB is heavier in terms of actuation force, making it potentially more satisfying for those who favor a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, there is a clear distinction: the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Rice Pudding boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you prefer a more traditional typing experience with a heartier depth, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the better choice, as its longer travel distance provides a more substantial feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, the Everglide Rice Pudding, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and users who prioritize quick response times, making it a suitable option for those who enjoy a more responsive feel, albeit with less depth. Thus, for users who favor a striking balance between depth and responsiveness, choosing between these two switches depends largely on personal preference for travel distance, with the MX Purple RGB being the longer and the Rice Pudding being the shorter option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding 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
When comparing the sound characteristics of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches, the MX Purple RGB provides a refined auditory experience with a noticeable click reduced in volume compared to more traditional clicky switches, leading to a quieter typing experience that many find enjoyable in shared environments. On the other hand, the Rice Pudding switches are renowned for their deeper sound profile, contributing to a more pronounced acoustic feedback during typing. This richness can evoke a more satisfying auditory experience but may be subject to variations influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a tactile experience characterized by a medium-strength bump, which provides satisfying feedback without being overly forceful, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. This switch strikes a balance that can cater to various user preferences. Conversely, Everglide's Rice Pudding switches boast a smooth operation with an emphasis on precision, which can give users a feeling of fluidity and consistency during use. While these switches may not deliver the same tactile feedback as the MX Purple RGB, the smoothness can enhance typing speed and accuracy.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Everglide Rice Pudding switches offer unique qualities tailored to different user preferences. The MX Purple RGB is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile bump along with moderate auditory feedback, making it versatile for various tasks. Meanwhile, the Rice Pudding excels in delivering a smooth feel with a deeper sound, which may appeal to those looking for a more robust acoustic experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual’s prioritization of tactile feedback versus smoothness, as well as their desired sound profile during their typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch will largely depend on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a tactile bump with a refined experience, the MX Purple is an excellent option—especially for those who appreciate a more nuanced feedback as you type, thanks to its developed design. Because of its unique collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch provides a tactile experience that many users find satisfying, particularly for general typing and gaming. However, if you're seeking something with a more robust bottom-out force and a satisfying auditory experience, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch could be your go-to. It offers a smooth operation while delivering a deeper sound, making it a solid choice for those who value both precision and auditory feedback. Its compatibility with Wooting’s innovative keyboards adds a layer of versatility that might appeal to you as an enthusiast. Ultimately, consider what aspects—like tactile feedback, sound profile, or responsiveness—are most important to you, as both switches deliver unique experiences tailored to different user preferences.
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