Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) 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, enthusiasts often find themselves considering various factors, including sound profile, smoothness, and overall typing experience. The Gateron Oil King (V2), a linear switch, is celebrated for its creamy and buttery smoothness, providing a typing experience reminiscent of a chocolate bar snapping—ideal for those who favor seamless key presses. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employs hall effect technology to deliver a uniquely balanced typing feel. Its low-pitched sound signature and silky smooth keystrokes create an inviting “thock” that many enthusiasts crave, while its dustproof stem enhances performance by minimizing wobble. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference: whether one prioritizes the indulgent smoothness of the Oil King (V2) or the refined tactile sensation of the Sticky Rice (V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it is evident that they utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic profile. The Oil King (V2) features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and rounder sound due to the softer properties of nylon that absorb more sound. This results in a fuller auditory experience, creating a warm and muted sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) uses a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile; polycarbonate’s rigidity allows for clearer resonance and a higher-pitched sound. This difference in material choice means that users may experience varying sound characteristics between the two switches, especially during the release of a key, where the properties of the top housing play a crucial role.
On the other hand, when we explore the bottom housings of these switches, we see an intriguing shift in material usage. The Oil King (V2) utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which gives it a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In juxtaposition, the Sticky Rice (V2) employs a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing counterpart. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom of the Sticky Rice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, harmonizing with the characteristics of its top housing. As a result, while the Oil King delivers a more complex experience due to the differing sound profiles of its top and bottom housings, the Sticky Rice maintains a cohesive acoustic identity, where the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing provide a more rounded and muted feel during keypresses.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials significantly shapes the typing experience for both switches. In situations where the top and bottom housings feature different materials, as seen in the Gateron Oil King (V2), the sound and feel may complement each other in unique ways, offering a varied aural experience depending on whether the key is pressed or released. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), with its matching nylon components, provides a more uniform sound profile. Despite this contrast, both switches can yield satisfying results; if a user desires a soft, fuller sound while typing, either switch can perform well within its defined characteristics, making the choice depend largely on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch with the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there's a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Oil King (V2) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classified as medium-heavy, which provides a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to less finger fatigue. Consequently, while the Oil King (V2) caters to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke tactile feedback, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers an easier keystroke with its lighter forces, appealing to users who favor speed and comfort. Overall, your choice between these switches should reflect your preference for typing experience—whether you lean towards lighter and quicker presses or a more robust feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference highlights the preference variations among users; for instance, gamers might favor the Sticky Rice (V2) for its quicker response time attributable to its shorter travel, promoting faster actuation during gameplay. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Oil King (V2) offers a more pronounced and hearty feel that some users may find more satisfying for typing or tasks that require precise keystrokes. Therefore, if you're looking for a smoother, traditional experience, the Oil King (V2) would be the better choice, while those seeking a snappier engagement may lean towards the Sticky Rice (V2). In summary, the Oil King (V2) stands out as the longer option at 4 mm, compared to the 3.5 mm of the Sticky Rice (V2).
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 Oil King (V2) features a rich profile that is likened to the satisfying snap of dark chocolate, providing a deeper, mellow tone during use. This makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is characterized by a low-pitched sound signature that delivers a balanced thock, appealing to many enthusiasts who seek that specific auditory feedback in their typing. While both switches can provide satisfying sounds, the Oil King's sound profile is more unique, while the Sticky Rice strikes a chord with those who prefer a more classic mechanical typing noise.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King (V2) offers an exceptionally creamy, silky, and buttery experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes that glide seamlessly into each press. This smoothness is often attributed to the factory-applied lubrication and the materials used in construction, giving it a luxurious typing sensation. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), on the other hand, also boasts a silky feel combined with a polished finish that reduces friction, enhancing user experience while typing. The presence of mild characteristics makes it approachable, providing a refined touch that suits diverse preferences without going too far into extremes, allowing for a pleasant feel that supports long typing sessions.
Overall, both the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer distinct yet complementary qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Oil King stands out with its unique sound and ultra-smooth response, while the Sticky Rice provides a beloved thock along with a meticulously polished typing experience. Choosing between these two will largely depend on personal preference regarding sound and tactile sensations, as both switches can deliver exceptional results tailored to your typing needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a medium-heavy feel with a buttery smooth keystroke that evokes a sensory experience akin to snapping dark chocolate, then the Oil King (V2) will be your go-to switch. This is particularly suitable for those who prefer a tactile and slightly more substantial typing sensation, making it great for extensive gaming sessions or typing where you can savor each stroke. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter, more responsive switch that delivers a polished and balanced typing experience with a satisfying "thock," the Sticky Rice (V2) is an excellent choice. Its lower activation force makes it easy to type for long hours without fatigue, catering to those who value a refined yet gentle keystroke that balances sound and feel beautifully. By understanding these nuances, you can select the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences, ensuring a more enjoyable keyboard experience.
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