Everglide Rice Pudding vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Dareu Sky V3. The Rice Pudding switches are renowned for their exceptional smoothness and rich auditory feedback, providing a balanced typing experience that is both satisfying and precise. Their compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards further enhances their allure, making them an ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking versatility in performance. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches offer a neutral sound signature and a medium-light actuation force, appealing to a wide range of typing preferences. Celebrated for their comfort and precision, they cater to both ergonomic concerns and the demands of professional use. While the Rice Pudding emphasizes a deep auditory experience paired with versatility, the Sky V3 prioritizes a well-rounded typing feel and subdued auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Rice Pudding and the Dareu Sky V3 share a notable similarity in their top housing material, as both keyboards utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate enhances the resonance of the sound produced, making it ideal for users who prioritize a clear auditory feedback while typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes both switches particularly suitable for RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination that enhances their overall aesthetic appeal. Thus, users can expect similar results in sound clarity and visual customization when using either switch.
In contrast to the top housing, both the Rice Pudding and the Sky V3 employ nylon for their bottom housing, which serves to deliver a distinct sound profile that is noticeably different from that of polycarbonate. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, offering a duller and rounder auditory experience when bottoming out. Therefore, while the polycarbonate top contributes to higher frequencies and resonance, the nylon bottom balances this with a richer, softer sound, making both switches well-rounded in their acoustic performance.
The interaction between the top and bottom housing materials is crucial in determining the overall typing experience of the switches. While both the Everglide Rice Pudding and Dareu Sky V3 utilize polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom, the combined effect of this specific material pairing leads to a unique sound profile that encapsulates the strengths of both materials. Users will find that the polycarbonate top provides clarity when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom ensures a pleasant, cushioned feel at the bottom of the keystroke. Consequently, this harmonious blend of materials makes both switches appealing choices for users seeking a satisfying balance of sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a relatively light option for users who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown, making direct comparisons of the bottoming out experience somewhat challenging. While the Rice Pudding offers a clear understanding of both actuation and bottom out forces, the lack of information regarding the Sky V3's bottom out force leaves a gap in evaluation. Generally, lighter switches like the Rice Pudding can facilitate longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue, while the heavier actuation force of the Sky V3 might appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel. Overall, the Rice Pudding is the lighter switch, whereas the Sky V3 leans toward the heavier side in terms of actuation force. If both switches had similar bottom out characteristics, users might expect comparable results in terms of their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Rice Pudding switch the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who prioritize quicker response times. In contrast, the Sky V3, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a more traditional feel that may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper, more tactile experience when pressing keys. For individuals who favor a more responsive feel, the Rice Pudding's shorter distance can provide a snappier experience, while those who appreciate the depth of travel might lean towards the Sky V3. Overall, choosing between these two switches largely depends on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 examining the sound characteristics of the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, it is noted for delivering a deep and satisfying auditory experience, contributing to an immersive typing atmosphere. This deeper sound can enhance the overall tactile satisfaction while typing, making it appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is recognized for its neutral sound signature, which offers a moderate actuation force and a more subdued auditory profile. This muted sound presentation makes the Sky V3 versatile for various environments, whether for casual use at home or in professional settings. Overall, while the Rice Pudding provides a more pronounced and rich sound layer, the Sky V3’s neutrality caters to those looking for more understated acoustic feedback.
In terms of feel, the Rice Pudding switches excel in delivering a smooth operation, although specifics on their tactile feedback are not available. The absence of tactile bumps and a more responsive experience often lends itself well to a satisfying typing rhythm. Conversely, the Sky V3 linear switch is characterized by its mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is welcoming and suitable for users of all skill levels. This middle-ground sensation strikes a balance, allowing for comfortable extended typing sessions without overwhelming feedback. Thus, the Rice Pudding might provide a more dynamic feedback experience with its hall effect mechanism, while the Sky V3 embraces an approachable and smooth operation.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Rice Pudding and Dareu Sky V3 switches present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Rice Pudding’s deep sound and anticipated smoothness make it ideal for those seeking an enriching, immersive feel during use, while the Sky V3’s neutral sound and mild response appeal to users valuing a balanced typing experience. While they differ in auditory feedback and tactile characteristics, both switches strive to deliver precision and comfort in their own right, ensuring that users can find satisfaction according to their specific needs and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you favor a lighter feel and are looking for a switch that offers a smooth operation alongside a deeper sound, the Rice Pudding may be your best bet, especially if you appreciate the added versatility of compatibility with Wooting keyboards. These switches are perfect for those seeking a satisfying typing experience that balances precision with acoustic enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a well-rounded, gentle typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is an excellent option. Its medium-light weight and mild characteristics provide comfort for both gaming and professional use, making it a solid choice for those who want reliable performance without overwhelming sound or feel. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize sound depth and compatibility with specialized keyboards or a neutral, comfortable typing experience that is suitable for various environments.
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