Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two distinct options catered to different preferences and use cases. The Akko V3 Silver Pro is a linear switch celebrated for its gamer-centric design, featuring an easy-to-press mechanism that promotes rapid actuation with a satisfying bassy sound. Its light actuation force and shortened travel distance make it a prime choice for competitive gamers, where speed and precision are crucial. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) embodies a more balanced typing experience favored by enthusiasts, offering a smooth keystroke paired with a neutral sound profile that produces a refined "thock." This switch is built for those who enjoy a tactile yet elegant feel without sacrificing performance, thanks to its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. While both switches shine in their respective spheres—gaming versus a refined typing experience—each presents its unique advantages. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share a striking similarity in their sound profiles due to the utilization of polycarbonate for their top housings. Both switches exhibit a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound signature, largely attributable to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material's clarity enhances the resonance, allowing for a more pronounced auditory experience when the key is released. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing makes both switches particularly well-suited for RGB lighting applications, ensuring that the illumination shines through effectively to accentuate the aesthetics of the keyboard.
However, despite the commonality in their top housing materials, the two switches diverge in their bottom housing compositions. The V3 Silver Pro employs a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its sound-absorbing characteristics. This allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the crisper upper tone produced by the polycarbonate top. The Sticky Rice (V2), with its nylon bottom housing, similarly benefits from the material's sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a comparable, rounded auditory experience. In both cases, the respective bottom housings contribute to a more substantial bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, showcasing how the combined effects of material choices can influence the switch's overall character.
Ultimately, the V3 Silver Pro and the Sticky Rice (V2) yield a synergistic sound experience thanks to their carefully selected housing materials. While they share a similarly vibrant sound profile attributed to the polycarbonate tops, the differing effects of the nylon bottoms create a unique auditory dichotomy. Users will find that while both switches provide distinctive listening experiences rooted in their material compositions, the split qualities of sound production—crispness from the tops and depth from the bottoms—culminate in a harmonious interaction that allows for comparable results in terms of acoustic performance and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch both feature the same actuation force of 40 grams, making them equally light in that regard, which is beneficial for long typing or gaming sessions. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the V3 Silver Pro requiring 45 grams to bottom out, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar feel during the initial keystroke, the Everglide switch will offer a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down, which some users may prefer for a robust typing experience. Overall, if you value a lighter feel, both switches will serve you well, although the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option when it comes to bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the V3 Silver Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) boasts a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience; gamers may lean towards the Silver Pro for its quicker response time due to the shorter distance, while those who favor a more traditional and deeper feel might prefer the Sticky Rice (V2). In essence, if you're looking for a rapid response with less travel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the better choice, whereas the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) will provide a more substantial and potentially satisfying depth for those who prefer it.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver 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 Silver Pro switches provide a pleasing bassy tone that caters well to gamers, making each keystroke resonate with a satisfying depth. This low-pitched sound is less likely to be disruptive, allowing for an immersive experience during fast-paced gameplay. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches are known for their low-pitched sound signature that leans towards the "thock" that mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often seek. While both switches create lower-frequency sounds conducive to focused work or gaming scenarios, the unique sound characteristics make them suitable for different user preferences.
In terms of feel, the V3 Silver Pro switches excel in delivering an easy-to-press experience, characterized by minimal resistance that enhances comfort during extended use. This creamy and silky profile allows users to glide effortlessly across the keys, reducing fatigue during long gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) switches offer a polished and silky typing experience as well, with an emphasis on smoothness and reduced friction. Their mild and buttery feel ensures a delightful typing experience that many users will find appealing. Both switches provide a refined tactile sensation, but the V3 Silver Pro leans more towards a light and effortless actuation, making it particularly suitable for gaming.
In summary, both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches boast distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different user preferences while providing comfortable typing experiences. The V3 Silver Pro is positioned as a gaming-centric switch with a light actuation force and a bassy sound, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more balanced typing feel and a nuanced thock sound. Choosing between them will ultimately come down to personal preferences regarding sound signature and responsiveness, but either option promises a satisfying and smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re a gamer who values speed and responsiveness, the V3 Silver Pro is designed with you in mind, featuring a light actuation force, shortened travel distance, and a satisfying bassy sound that enhances your gaming experience. Its easy-to-press and creamy feel reduces finger fatigue during extended gaming sessions, making it an excellent option for those very competitive moments where reaction time is critical. On the other hand, if you prioritize a balanced typing experience and enjoy a tactile feedback that pairs nicely with a low-pitched “thock,” the Sticky Rice (V2) might be your ideal choice. With its polished and silky feel, this switch offers a refined typing sensation that appeals to enthusiasts seeking subtlety over raw speed. Additionally, its mildly engaging feedback makes it approachable for various typing tasks, whether gaming, work, or casual use. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what you value most in a switch—be it the gaming-focused quickness of the Akko or the melodic and smooth experience offered by the Everglide.
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