Everglide Rice Pudding vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Everglide Rice Pudding, a hall effect switch known for its smooth operation and deep sound, and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), a linear switch celebrated for its clacky and resonant notes. The Rice Pudding switch offers a balanced typing experience that combines precision with satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize both performance and versatility, especially as it is fully compatible with Wooting's innovative keyboards. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) takes tactile pleasure to the next level with its impeccable factory lube job, delivering smooth keystrokes complemented by high-pitched clacks that many enthusiasts crave. Each switch has its own unique advantages—whether you prefer the deep tones and adaptability of the Rice Pudding or the silky smoothness and resonant sound of the Strawberry Wine (V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it's clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, but differ in their top housing compositions. The Rice Pudding features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and clarity, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) opts for a newer material, Ly, which is characterized by a bright sound signature and resonant clacks. This distinction suggests that the Rice Pudding's polycarbonate top will create a sharper auditory experience, particularly favorable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Ly material in the Strawberry Wine (V2) introduces a vibrant and lively sound profile, setting a different atmospheric tone while typing.
Despite the divergence in top housing materials, both switches share the same bottom housing made from nylon. This commonality results in a similarly deep and full sound profile for both models, as nylon tends to absorb sound effectively, contributing to a more subdued bottom-out sound. The use of nylon ensures that the tactile feedback of both switches remains satisfying and consistent, with a rounded note that enhances the overall typing experience. Thus, while the top housings contribute distinctly to the sound signature, the nylon bottoms unify their auditory output by providing a plush and softer sound, making them complementary in overall acoustics.
In terms of how the two switches may perform similarly, their nylon bottom housing allows them to create a consistent base sound profile, despite differing top materials. When pressed, typists will experience the lush and fuller sound that nylon provides, while the distinctive characteristics of each top housing will emerge upon release. The Rice Pudding's polycarbonate top may lend an additional crispness to the sound that follows key presses, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) will yield a more vibrant resonance. Thus, although they are built from different materials above, the nylon bottom allows both switches to produce a harmonious typing feel, solidifying their appeal to users who appreciate both subtlety and variation in sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Rice Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which appeals to users who favor a more substantial feel when typing. While both switches offer a smooth linear experience, the Rice Pudding is overall lighter, catering to typists seeking comfort over longer periods, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a bit more resistance for those desiring a firmer touch. So, while both switches excel in different aspects of user preference, the Rice Pudding stands out for its lighter action.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the Rice Pudding has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Rice Pudding the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that gamers often prefer due to quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2), with its 3.6 mm travel distance, provides a deeper actuation that some users might appreciate for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, individuals who prioritize rapid response may gravitate towards the Rice Pudding, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may find the Strawberry Wine (V2) more appealing.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 the sound profiles of the Everglide Rice Pudding and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches, it's clear that they offer distinct auditory experiences. The Rice Pudding switches are noted for delivering a deep sound, suggesting a richer and rounder auditory profile compared to the Strawberry Wine switches, which are characterized by their clacky and resonant notes. The Strawberry Wine switches produce a sharp, crisp, and high-pitched sound that creates a lively typing experience. While the Rice Pudding focuses on depth and balance, the Strawberry Wine emphasizes a snappier and more percussive sound, making them ideal for those who appreciate an engaging and vibrant auditory feedback during their typing.
In terms of feel, the Rice Pudding switches are designed to provide a balanced and satisfying typing experience, although specific details on their tactile feedback are not provided. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches excel with their exceptionally smooth feel, offering a silky typing experience that minimizes resistance during key presses. This factory lube job enhances the overall smoothness, providing a seamless transition between keystrokes. For those who prioritize a smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine switches may have the edge, while the Rice Pudding offers a more generic yet pleasant feel.
In conclusion, while both the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switches and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they can appeal to distinct sensibilities. The Rice Pudding excels in delivering a deep and balanced auditory experience, making it perfect for enthusiasts who value harmony, while the Strawberry Wine switches offer a lively and crisp sound combined with silky smoothness that contributes to an enjoyable tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a richer sound with a balanced feel or a more vibrant, engaging auditory experience paired with an exceptionally smooth typing action.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, your choice should reflect both your typing style and the auditory experience you prefer. If you favor a lighter actuation force with a smooth and precise typing experience, the Rice Pudding is an excellent choice, particularly for those who appreciate versatility in their keyboard setup, as it pairs seamlessly with Wooting's keyboards. Its sound profile, while not specified here, is often characterized by a balanced tone that enhances the overall keystroke experience. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a medium-light feel with a satisfying clacky resonance that makes each keystroke feel sharp and lively, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the way to go. Not only does it deliver a brilliantly smooth and tactile typing experience, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job, but it also emits a high-pitched, crisp sound that can make typing enjoyable and engaging. Ultimately, your decision should revolve around whether you prioritize smoothness and versatility or a more dynamic auditory experience that might enhance your enjoyment of each typing session.
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