Everglide Rice Pudding vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The Rice Pudding switches are celebrated for their perfect blend of smooth operation and a satisfyingly deep sound, catering to those who appreciate a balance of precision and auditory feedback. Moreover, their compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards adds an extra layer of versatility, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch redefines silent typing through its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness and stability while absorbing sound for a quieter experience. This switch appeals to users who prioritize a soft, elastic feel, ideal for both typing and gaming in shared spaces. Each switch brings its unique strengths to the table, whether it's the satisfying acoustics of the Rice Pudding or the whisper-quiet operation of the Zero Degree. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Rice Pudding and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches exhibit a fascinating consistency in the materials used for their top housings, both incorporating polycarbonate. This choice is notable due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which contributes to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. As a result, users can expect a clear and resonant auditory experience from either switch, particularly beneficial if RGB lighting is an aesthetic consideration. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for the lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appearance of both switches and creating a vibrant display when illuminated.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches diverge in their sound profiles, with both utilizing nylon. This material is recognized for its softer characteristics, which absorb sound waves and yield a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Consequently, while both switches maintain a cohesive auditory experience through their polycarbonate top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing introduces a distinct aspect to the overall sound profile. The impact of the nylon is particularly felt when bottoming out a key, as it contributes to a duller yet rounder sound, an experience that users may find more satisfying due to the reduced sharpness compared to the top housing.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the Everglide Rice Pudding and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches results in a synergistic interaction between the materials that shapes the overall performance. The polycarbonate top provides the crisp feedback that enhances typing precision, while the nylon bottom adds depth to the sound profile, making both switches excellent choices for enthusiasts. If similar results in sound and performance are sought, leveraging the same materials across both switches allows users to enjoy a well-balanced auditory experience that retains the individual characteristics imparted by each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Rice Pudding features a light actuation force of 38 grams, while the Zero Degree requires a heavier force of 45 grams to achieve actuation. This difference means that the Rice Pudding is better suited for users looking for a lighter touch, making it ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as it reduces strain on the fingers. Conversely, the Zero Degree’s higher actuation force caters to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Rice Pudding is 48 grams, indicating a soft landing when fully pressed down, while the bottom out force for the Zero Degree is currently unavailable. The known forces tell us that the Rice Pudding is lighter overall, which aligns with the preference for less resistance in prolonged use. If one were to compare the bottoming out experience directly, further information would be needed for the Zero Degree to draw a complete comparison.
Travel distance
The Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Rice Pudding switch the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers or those who prefer quicker key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree offers a mildly greater depth that some users might find more comfortable, as it avoids the abrupt sensation that can accompany shorter travel distances. With just a 0.1 mm difference, both switches are quite close in travel distance, resulting in a similar tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The Everglide Rice Pudding switch produces a deep and satisfying sound profile that enhances the typing experience, making it a popular choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback. Its sound quality is characterized by a low-pitched thock that resonates pleasantly, giving a sense of depth and sophistication. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed for silent operation, featuring an innovative self-padding structure that effectively dampens sound. This switch offers a very quiet experience, appealing to those who prefer a more discreet typing environment. Both switches can deliver satisfying auditory experiences, but they cater to different preferences—one emphasizing a richer sound, while the other prioritizes silence.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch provides a smooth and precise typing experience, allowing for seamless key presses that many typists find enjoyable. The natural resistance and tactile feedback contribute to a balanced feeling that is both engaging and satisfying during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offers an exceptionally smooth and soft tactile experience due to its dual-rail construction. Its elastic feel adds to the overall comfort, making it an excellent option for users who want to minimize fatigue while typing, especially during extended use. While both switches offer smooth operation, they cater to slightly different preferences in tactile feedback.
In summary, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch excels in delivering a rich sound and balanced feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts looking for an engaging typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on silent, smooth operation combined with soft feedback, perfect for those seeking quietness and comfort. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, but both options are tailored to provide quality performance in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider what aspects of typing you prioritize most. If you value a light actuation force with a satisfying tactile feedback and a robust sound profile, the Rice Pudding switches would be ideal for you. Their balanced typing experience makes them perfect for both gaming and typing tasks, particularly if you also appreciate versatility and compatibility with Wooting keyboards. On the other hand, if silent operation is paramount for your setup, such as working in shared spaces where noise can be disruptive, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is a top choice. With its unique self-padding design, it provides an exceptionally quiet typing experience while maintaining that sought-after smoothness and a plush feel. In essence, your decision will largely depend on whether you prefer a more engaging tactile experience with sound or the tranquility of near-silent keystrokes.
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