Outemu Red vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh the benefits of various types, such as the Outemu Red linear switches and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switches. The Outemu Red switches are designed to provide a smooth typing experience, making them a popular choice for gamers who prefer rapid, uninterrupted keystrokes due to their linear nature. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches stand out for their delightful balance between a satisfying tactile feel and a neutral sound signature, embodying the much-desired "thock" sound that many typing enthusiasts seek. Furthermore, the Sticky Rice switches benefit from a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances overall performance, catering to users who favor a refined tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches can depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and intended use; 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
46g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.10 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Red and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches both exhibit similar characteristics in their top housings, as both utilize polycarbonate material. This commonality leads to a similar auditory experience, providing users with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clear and resonant acoustic performance, which is ideal for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes both switches compatible with RGB lighting setups, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard while ensuring that the light shines through vibrantly.
In contrast to their shared polycarbonate top housings, the bottom housings of the Outemu Red and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) are both made from nylon. This choice of material contributes a different auditory dimension to the overall performance of the switches. The softer nature of nylon leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This is primarily due to nylon's ability to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is more rounded and less harsh. Consequently, while the top and bottom housings are made from different materials, the distinct qualities of each contribute to a fully integrated auditory experience.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in these switches allows for a nuanced typing experience where the dual characteristics can be appreciated. The polycarbonate top housing shapes the sound when releasing the keys, creating a bright tonal quality, while the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a softer engagement sensation. Thus, even though the switches use different materials for the top and bottom housings, users can enjoy a cohesive and satisfying typing experience characterized by the clarity of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon. This interplay ensures that both switches can yield excellent acoustic results, catering to a diverse range of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Red features a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which gives it a medium weight classification. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Sticky Rice (V2) the lighter of the two options, providing a more effortless typing experience that is well-suited for long work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the higher forces of the Outemu Red may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing, as it requires a stronger push to register each keystroke. Therefore, while the Outemu Red provides a heavier and more pronounced typing experience, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) allows for faster, lighter keystrokes, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there is a clear distinction. The Outemu Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for a slightly deeper key feel. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, appealing to gamers who seek quicker response times. This shorter distance can offer a more responsive typing experience but may feel abrupt to those who favor a deeper keypress. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) would be the ideal choice, whereas the Outemu Red would be better suited for those who appreciate a more substantial key travel.
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 Red 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
When comparing sound quality, the Outemu Red linear switch is relatively quiet, producing minimal noise during operation, which can be favorable for settings where sound is a concern. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch is noted for its neutral sound signature and is designed to deliver a satisfying "thock" sound that appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. The differences in sound also depend heavily on external factors, such as the keyboard construction and keycap choice, so both switches can potentially offer a tailored auditory experience depending on these elements.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red is characterized by its smooth linear action, which provides a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or resistance. This quality is ideal for users seeking swift key presses, especially gamers who require rapid inputs. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) emphasizes a refined tactile sensation due to its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem that reduces wobble, offering a more overall balanced typing experience. This attention to feel can make it appealing for typists who appreciate a bit more control and feedback without sacrificing the smoothness that linear switches are known for.
Overall, the Outemu Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch each offer unique attributes to cater to different preferences. While the Red excels in providing an unobtrusive and fluid keystroke, the Sticky Rice (V2) stands out with its delightful sound quality and enhanced tactile performance. Both switches aim to deliver satisfying outcomes, yet they target specific user experiences, making the choice ultimately dependent on whether one prioritizes a smooth, quiet typing experience or a more textured and acoustically engaging one.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and use cases. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a straightforward linear switch that allows for smooth and predictable keystrokes, the Outemu Red could be your best bet. It's an excellent option for gaming where quick actuation and a consistent feel are crucial. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom out force of just 50 grams, the Sticky Rice (V2) is an enticing alternative that excels in providing a refined typing experience. The super smooth keystroke and minimal wobble can greatly enhance your enjoyment, especially if you’re someone who appreciates the satisfying "thock" sound and a more tactile sensation while typing. Therefore, consider your typing style and the kind of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard when making your decision; whether you lean towards the directness of the Outemu Red or the meticulously crafted feel of the Sticky Rice (V2), each switch offers unique advantages tailored to different needs.
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