Dareu Sky V3 vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky V3 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two distinct yet appealing options for typists and gamers alike. The Sky V3 is known for its linear design, which combines a neutral sound signature with a medium-light weight, making it a versatile choice that accommodates various typing styles. This makes the Sky V3 particularly attractive for those seeking comfort and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) features a hall effect design that offers a super smooth keystroke with a satisfying “thock” sound that keyboard enthusiasts crave. This switch excels in providing a refined tactile sensation while minimizing wobble, making it appealing for users who prioritize performance along with auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice between the two will hinge on personal preferences for typing feel and sound; 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V3 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it becomes clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This commonality results in a high-pitched and crisp sound profile, as both polycarbonate materials are designed to create a more resonant sound. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to its clarity, making it more advantageous when utilized in a transparent housing, particularly for those who favor RGB lighting. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from this material, as their translucent nature enhances the visual experience of the RGB LEDs shining through, providing a vibrant optical effect.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Sky V3 and the Sticky Rice (V2) are both constructed from nylon, a classic choice for switch housings. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. Therefore, while both switches share similar materials in their upper housings, the use of nylon in the lower housings creates a distinct auditory experience, as the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the switch. This combination of housings means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience a harmonious blend of the crisper sound associated with polycarbonate at the top along with the rounder tones produced by the nylon at the bottom.
Ultimately, while the Dareu Sky V3 and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, the resulting sound profiles complement each other. The polycarbonate top ensures clarity and sharpness during key releases, while the nylon bottom provides a rounded and fuller sound during key presses. Consequently, both switches can provide similar tactile and auditory experiences due to their respective materials' properties, allowing users to enjoy a well-rounded performance regardless of their choice. The thoughtful combination of these materials showcases how nuanced design elements play a critical role in shaping the overall characteristics of keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 40 grams, offering a light touch required to trigger a keystroke, which can be advantageous for those seeking prolonged typing comfort or extended gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly, as the Sticky Rice (V2) has a measurable bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a stronger tactile feedback when fully pressed down, whereas the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unavailable. Consequently, users who appreciate a firmer feeling at the end of each keystroke might lean toward the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). In summary, both switches require the same amount of force to actuate, but the Everglide's heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial experience that some users may prefer.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Sky V3 features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference implies that users of the Sky V3 will experience a more pronounced key press, which can provide a deeper and more tactile feedback that some may prefer for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its shorter travel distance, caters more to those seeking rapid response times, making it a better choice for gamers who prioritize quick actions. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences; if you favor a deeper press, the Sky V3 is the way to go, whereas if you prefer a snappier feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) would likely be more appealing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch each provide a neutral sound signature, making them suitable for a variety of environments, whether you're typing at home or in a professional setting. The Sky V3 produces a subdued sound, offering a gentle auditory experience that is dampened yet not silent, allowing for comfortable use without significant distractions. While the specific sound qualities of the Sticky Rice (V2) aren't detailed, its description hints at a pleasing auditory focus, suggesting it could match the overall subdued nature of the Sky V3, particularly with its pursuit of an ideal "thock."
When it comes to feel, the Sky V3 offers a mild typing experience. This gentleness in tactile feedback makes it approachable for users who seek a balance between comfort and precision. The qualities of the Sticky Rice (V2) in terms of feel are not explicitly mentioned, but the reference to its super smooth keystroke and lessened wobble indicates a refined typing sensation that likely provides a compelling experience without being overly aggressive. This indicates that both switches may cater to users looking for a comfortable yet engaging typing experience, even if the specifics of the Sticky Rice's feel remain unknown.
In summary, both the Dareu Sky V3 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provide noteworthy characteristics in terms of sound and feel, making them both excellent choices for different types of users. Their neutral and mild auditory and tactile qualities imply that newcomers will find them accommodating, whether they lean towards a gentle typing experience or a more refined keystroke. Overall, either switch could fulfill the needs of enthusiasts and professionals who value a blend of comfort and performance in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch largely depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a balanced experience with a moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Sky V3 is a solid choice. Its mild feel and subdued sound make it particularly suitable for office environments or shared spaces, where both comfort and discretion are important. On the other hand, if you seek a more refined tactile experience with a crisp yet smooth keystroke, the Sticky Rice (V2) is an excellent option. With its light bottom-out force and reputation for delivering that satisfying "thock," it caters well to enthusiasts who appreciate a deeper connection to their typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what aspects of typing you value most—whether that’s the balance and neutrality of the Sky V3 or the enhanced tactile delight of the Sticky Rice (V2).
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