Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present distinct yet appealing options for different types of users. The V3 Piano Pro stands out with its long pole design, providing a bouncy and clacky sound signature that delivers a lively auditory experience with each keystroke. This switch not only offers a satisfying tactile response but also maintains a polished smoothness, making it ideal for those who enjoy an engaging and spirited typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) focuses on delivering a balanced, neutral sound signature that boasts the sought-after "thock" sound, favored by enthusiasts who appreciate deeper resonance. Its super smooth actuation, enhanced by a dustproof stem to reduce wobble, ensures a refined tactile feel, appealing to users who prioritize typing precision and comfort. While both switches have their unique strengths, understanding how these characteristics align with your personal preferences is essential. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) exhibit a notable difference in their top housing materials, which significantly affects the sound profile produced by each switch. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing known for its softer composition. This softness allows the material to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that many typists find appealing for its rounded auditory quality. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that is much stiffer, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's clarity enhances the acoustic response when a key is released, producing a sound that is brighter and more resonant compared to that of the nylon housing.
On the bottom housing front, both the V3 Piano Pro and the Sticky Rice (V2) share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent auditory quality in that aspect of the switches. The nylon's characteristics provide a similar deep and full sound profile, irrespective of the differences present in their top housings. As a result, while the top and bottom housings of the two models differ in material, the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a cohesive typing experience, especially in terms of the bottom-out sound and tactile feeling when keys are pressed. This reinforces the full-bodied quality associated with the typing experience across both models.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials in each switch leads to a distinct typing sound and feel. The V3 Piano Pro’s nylon top contributes to a warmer sound, while the polycarbonate top of the Sticky Rice (V2) heightens the snap and clarity of each keystroke. When considering the collective impact of both the top and bottom housing materials, the enduring nylon bottom in each switch binds many of the auditory experiences together, allowing typists to enjoy both comfortable, deep sounds and clearer, more resonant audio depending on the specifics of the switch they choose. Thus, users can expect different auditory experiences based on the top housing while still reveling in the familiar depth provided by the nylon bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we can see clear differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Piano Pro requires an actuation force of 45 grams and produces a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches have lighter actuation forces relative to some others on the market, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the lighter option overall. The lower forces of the Sticky Rice (V2) can facilitate longer typing sessions, as they reduce fatigue. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel or a heavier click may gravitate towards the V3 Piano Pro, offering a firmer resistance. Thus, while both switches cater to differing typing preferences, they provide distinct tactile experiences for users based on their force specifications.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that when pressed, both switches will travel the same distance from top to bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect comparable results in terms of keystroke feel and typing experience with both switches. Therefore, if you prefer one switch over the other, the travel distance will not be a deciding factor, as both provide an identical depth of keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch produces a clacky and resonant auditory profile, characterized by its sharp, crisp, and bright notes. Each keystroke is marked by a lively and percussive quality that can be quite immersive, delivering a clean and sharp sound that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch is noted for its neutral sound signature, which leans toward the sought-after "thock" among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, although specific sound descriptors for this switch are not provided. This difference in sound output indicates that while the V3 Piano Pro delivers an energetic auditory feedback, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more subdued yet satisfying acoustic experience, making both switches appealing depending on personal preferences.
In terms of feel, the V3 Piano Pro excels with a variety of descriptors highlighting its bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky qualities. The switch provides a spring-like rebound, reinforced by its smooth and buttery keystrokes, creating an effortless typing experience that feels refined and enjoyable. The careful design results in reduced friction and a smooth travel path for each key. The Sticky Rice (V2), while lacking explicit descriptions in the provided information, is recognized for its super smooth keystroke, bolstered by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances typing performance. This suggests that both switches may offer a gratifying tactile experience, though the V3 Piano Pro may provide a more dynamic and plush feel compared to the potentially straightforward yet effective performance of the Sticky Rice.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) have their unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro impresses with its lively acoustic feedback and a rich tactile experience, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) presents a smoother, more polished typing sensation with a neutral sound signature. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether you prefer a more vibrant auditory experience or a subtle yet refined feedback while typing.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch largely hinges on your preferred typing experience and sound profile. If you value a keyboard that offers a lively auditory feedback with a sharp, clacky sound, coupled with a smooth and bouncy feel, then the V3 Piano Pro is likely the better fit for you. The 55-gram actuation force means it’s slightly more robust, which can be satisfying for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued, refined auditory experience with a neutral sound signature that leans towards a satisfying 'thock', the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is apt for you. With its lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a super smooth keystroke, it’s perfect for extended typing sessions where comfort and ease of movement are priorities. Ultimately, your selection should reflect whether you lean toward a more dynamic typing experience or a smoother, more plush feeling beneath your fingers.
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