Outemu Cream Blue vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two distinct options for typists and gamers alike, each catering to different preferences and needs. The Cream Blue, known for its clicky feedback, delivers an audible and tactile response with every keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced typing experience and find satisfaction in the audible confirmation of each press. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more refined, hall effect design that provides a smooth keystroke along with a neutral sound signature, appealing to users seeking the coveted “thock” sound without overpowering noise. With its dustproof stem designed to minimize wobble and enhance performance, the Sticky Rice (V2) is a great choice for enthusiasts prioritizing a luxurious and tactile feel. Both switches have their unique merits—whether you lean towards the nostalgic click of the Cream Blue or the balanced tactile experience of the Sticky Rice (V2)—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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches are quite distinct, particularly when examining the top housings. The Cream Blue features a nylon top housing, which is noted for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic qualities. This results in a sound that is more muted and rounded, making it pleasant for users who favor a subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The clarity and resonance of the polycarbonate can enhance the overall typing experience, particularly for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. The differences in the top housing materials illustrate how they can fundamentally alter the acoustic output and tactile feedback users receive while typing.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, there is a striking similarity. Both the Cream Blue and the Sticky Rice (V2) feature a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic material used in switch design. The properties of nylon work to create a deeper, fuller sound profile, significantly affecting the overall bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Even though the top housings differ, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that both switches will deliver similar deep and rounded sound characteristics on the downstroke. This combination of materials illustrates how they can harmonize to create a cohesive typing experience, despite differences in the top housing's material and resulting sound profile.
Overall, the combination of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches allows for a consistent foundational auditory experience. While the Cream Blue's nylon top offers a softer, more muted sound, and the Sticky Rice's polycarbonate top presents a crisper, sharper auditory feedback, both switches will still retain that characteristic deeper sound due to their shared nylon bottom material. This fusion of different top housing materials results in a unique auditory signature for each switch while still aligning with the sonic depth provided by the nylon bottom, making them suitable for users with varying preferences in typing sounds and sensations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The Cream Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy choice, ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial typing sensation. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) is notably lighter, with an actuation force of just 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who prefer easier keystrokes for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. As a result, users of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) will find their typing experience to be less strenuous compared to those using the Cream Blue switch, which may lead to quicker fatigue over extended use for those who favor lighter forces. Therefore, if you are looking for a more weighty feel, the Outemu Cream Blue switch would be the better option, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) serves those who appreciate lighter action.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find notable differences. The Cream Blue switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it on the longer side of typical switch travel distances. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users who favor a more substantial depth and tactile feedback will likely prefer the Cream Blue, while those seeking quicker response times may opt for the Sticky Rice due to its shorter travel distance. As the trend moves towards shorter travel distances for enhanced responsiveness, the Sticky Rice aligns with modern preferences for gaming and fast-paced usage. Thus, users looking for a more rapid and less abrupt feel should consider the Sticky Rice, while those who enjoy the tactile experience of a deeper press might lean towards the Cream Blue.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue switch is notable for its distinct clicky feedback, which is satisfying to many typing enthusiasts. This clicky sound is pronounced and can be quite loud, making it ideal for those who enjoy the auditory cues that accompany their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more refined auditory experience with a neutral sound signature that produces a pleasing "thock" when pressed. This sound, combined with its construction, allows for a quieter operation compared to the Cream Blue, making Sticky Rice switches a more suitable choice for quieter environments or shared spaces. However, both switches' acoustics can be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cream Blue switch provides a tactile response that is snappy, giving clear feedback at the point of activation. Many users find this feedback enhances their typing experience, especially for those who prefer a more traditional mechanical feel. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is designed to deliver a super smooth keystroke, boasting a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances stability during typing. This results in a tactile sensation that feels refined and balanced, appealing to users who appreciate a modern typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. While the Cream Blue emphasizes its clicky tactile feedback, the Sticky Rice V2 focuses on providing an overall smoother experience.
In summary, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch cater to slightly different preferences, both offer unique auditory and tactile qualities that can enhance your typing experience. The Cream Blue is ideal for those who enjoy definitive click sounds and tactile feedback, while the Sticky Rice V2 presents a smoother, quieter, and more refined typing option. Selecting between these switches would ultimately depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both have distinctive characteristics that can suit various typing styles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile feedback with a more pronounced click sound, the Cream Blue is ideal for you. Its higher actuation force allows for precise keystrokes, making it a suitable option for users who prefer a more deliberate and audible typing experience, especially in environments where sound isn't a concern. Conversely, if you gravitate towards a lighter keystroke and a smoother, more refined typing experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) would be more to your taste. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy the subtlety of a "thock" sound while benefiting from a lower actuation force, which can improve speed and comfort during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and typing effort, as these factors will guide you in selecting the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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