Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two distinct yet appealing options for typists and gamers alike. The Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, is designed to provide feedback that allows users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience, though it is less recognized for standout characteristics. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), categorized as a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and subtle “thock” sound that enthusiasts crave, making it a favorite among those who seek both tactile feedback and auditory pleasure. While the Crystal Brown may appeal to those who prefer a straightforward tactile sensation, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a refined performance that is enhanced by its dustproof stem, ultimately minimizing wobble. Each switch caters to different preferences, ensuring that there is a suitable option for various user experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$3.10 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity and clarity, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This characteristic aligns with the design intent of RGB keyboards, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. Consequently, users can expect a comparable sound and aesthetic when using switches that feature this material for their top housing, whether opting for the Crystal Brown or the Sticky Rice (V2), especially in setups that leverage RGB illumination.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is crafted from nylon, which presents a stark difference in sound dynamics compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic, known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory profile. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly pronounced when bottoming out a key; the nylon provides a softer, more rounded sound as opposed to the sharper tonality of the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while the top housings promote clarity and brightness in sound—attributes that would shine during the release of a key—the nylon bottom creates a contrasting depth, leading to a more rounded auditory experience when the switch is fully pressed down.

When analyzing the combined performance of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), one can see how the split in materials creates a symbiotic relationship between them. The high-pitched clarity from the polycarbonate top housing is effectively balanced by the low-end absorption of sound from the nylon bottom. This interplay results in a comprehensive sound profile that blends both crispness and depth, allowing users to experience a rich typing environment. Therefore, even though each switch uses different materials for their bottom and top housings, the result is a harmonious sound quality that appeals to a wide range of tactile and auditory preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces arise. The Crystal Brown requires a 45-gram actuation force and has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means users who favor lighter switches may find the Sticky Rice (V2) more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to register a keystroke. Conversely, those who prefer a heftier typing experience might lean towards the Crystal Brown, given its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. In summary, while both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is the lighter option, and the Outemu Crystal Brown provides a more substantial feel for users who appreciate heavier switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it is clear that they differ. The Crystal Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that the Crystal Brown provides a more pronounced key press, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper feel and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Sticky Rice (V2) may offer advantages for gamers who prefer quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, the choice of switch will depend on personal preference; those who favor a deeper feel should opt for the Crystal Brown, while those seeking greater responsiveness may prefer the Sticky Rice (V2).

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound characteristics of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Crystal Brown's auditory qualities remain unclear, leaving it difficult to provide a definitive comparison. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) stands out with its neutral sound signature, which is appreciated within the mechanical keyboard community for producing a desirable "thock." This sound is largely a product of the switch design and mechanism itself but can also be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap materials used. Therefore, while the specific sound profile of the Crystal Brown is unknown, the Sticky Rice (V2) is recognized for its satisfying auditory feedback.

Turning to the tactile experience, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch lacks a clear descriptor, which leaves any potential tactile feedback ambiguous. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a distinctly refined typing experience, attributed to its smooth keystroke and the dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances tactile performance. This combination ensures a pleasantly balanced feel that many typists and gamers alike will find appealing. Without concrete details on the Crystal Brown, it’s difficult to gauge how it would compare in terms of tactile satisfaction, but the Sticky Rice (V2) clearly excels in this area.

In conclusion, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents a well-rounded option that features a neutral sound and smooth tactile feedback, the Outemu Crystal Brown’s qualities remain largely undefined. If you are seeking a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a compelling choice, whereas the attributes of the Crystal Brown would require further exploration to determine its standing in comparison.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and what you value in a keyboard experience. If you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams that delivers a tactile feedback without being overly loud, the Crystal Brown may be the right choice for you. This switch is ideal for general typists who enjoy a traditional tactile feel and don’t need the nuances of a more advanced switch. However, if you’re seeking a smoother, lighter feel with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Sticky Rice (V2) stands out as a fantastic option. It offers a refined tactile sensation and a desirable "thock" sound profile, making it exceptionally pleasant for both typing and gaming. Its dustproof stem reduces wobble and enhances performance, catering to enthusiasts who prioritize a sophisticated keystroke and acoustic experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal touch and sound preferences: opt for the Crystal Brown for a classic tactile feel, or go with the Sticky Rice (V2) for a modern, smooth experience that pleases both the fingers and the ears.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more