Gateron Smoothie vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different designs and features to suit their typing preferences. On one hand, we have the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch renowned for its buttery smooth operation and thocky sound profile. The all-POM construction offers a lightweight touch and a creamy, subdued feedback that appeals to users who prioritize a soft and satisfying keypress. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) stands out as a hall effect switch, delivering a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature that captures the desirable "thock" sound beloved by many. This switch boasts a super smooth keystroke enabled by a dustproof stem, enhancing stability and performance while providing a refined tactile sensation. Each switch caters to different typists—whether you prefer the lightweight elegance of the Smoothie or the balanced feel of the Sticky Rice (V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal 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
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a clear distinction emerges between the two. The Gateron Smoothie features a top housing made from POM, which is known for producing a sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This allows for a unique auditory experience characterized by a pleasing resonance, particularly suitable for users who favor quieter environments. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisper and more resonant. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer audio experience, making it less ideal for those who desire a more subdued sound but perfect for users who appreciate a sound with more bite and clarity.
The bottom housings of these two switches further illustrate their differences. The Smoothie's bottom housing is also made of POM, reinforcing that deeper, muted sound profile throughout the keystroke. POM’s acoustic properties create an overall pleasing sound experience, accentuating the unique auditory qualities this switch is designed to deliver. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic choice known for its sound-dampening characteristics, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer POM, resulting in a rounder acoustic experience that ultimately benefits those who prefer a warm sound signature.
The combination of these materials ultimately shapes the typing experience provided by each switch. In the case of the Gateron Smoothie, both the top and bottom housings contribute to a cohesion in sound, ensuring that the deeper and muted sound profile resonates throughout both the downstroke and bottom-out experiences. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents a contrast, as the combination of its polycarbonate top housing with its nylon bottom presents a more complex auditory interaction. While the top housing offers a clear, bright sound upon release, the bottom housing's softness provides a rounded finish when bottoming out. Therefore, while the Smoothie offers a more consistent sound profile, the Sticky Rice (V2) introduces a dynamic auditory experience informed by the different materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 40 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottoming out force differs significantly between the two; while the Smoothie’s bottom out force is unknown, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Smoothie might offer a gentler experience when fully pressed down, as the bottom out force is unspecified, suggesting it may not have a pronounced bottom out sensation. In terms of typing experience, both switches may be appealing for longer typing sessions, as they feature the same actuation force, allowing for relatively equal ease in key presses. Nevertheless, the Sticky Rice (V2) will provide a heavier feel at the bottom due to its known bottom out force, which some users might appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you prefer lighter switches, the Smoothie may be the better option, while those who enjoy a stronger push will likely favor the Sticky Rice (V2) due to its heavier bottom out characteristic.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we find that the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Gateron Smoothie the longer option, offering a more substantial depth when pressed, which might appeal to users who prefer that hearty feel under their fingertips. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provides a marginally shorter travel distance, catering to gamers or those seeking quicker response times in their key presses. Thus, if you prioritize a rapid actuation for gaming or fast typing, you might prefer the Sticky Rice (V2). However, if you enjoy a more pronounced bottom-out feel, the Gateron Smoothie would be the better choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 Gateron Smoothie linear switch stands out with its thocky, low-pitched sound signature that delivers a deep, rich tone with a satisfying thud upon actuation. This switch is characterized by its subdued auditory profile, creating a more understated noise that doesn’t overwhelm the senses. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is known for its neutral sound signature that hints at the beloved "thock" sound prized by keyboard enthusiasts. While specifics regarding the exact sound characteristics of the Sticky Rice (V2) haven’t been detailed, users can expect a pleasant auditory experience that balances well with the tactile feedback it provides. Ultimately, both switches lean towards a satisfying auditory experience, although the Smoothie's thocky depth may appeal to those who prefer a richer sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Smoothie truly excels, offering a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. The seamless and fluid keystroke allows for effortless typing, resembling a silky glide over the keys. This makes the Smoothie not only enjoyable for long typing sessions but also conducive to gaming. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents a compelling choice with its super smooth keystroke, attributed to the dustproof stem that enhances performance and minimizes wobble. While specific descriptors for feel have not been provided for the Sticky Rice (V2), it is implied that its design aims to deliver a refined tactile sensation. Thus, while the Smoothie articulates its smoothness in rich detail, the Sticky Rice (V2) also promises a satisfying experience without going into specifics.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) serve as excellent options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards, each catering to unique preferences. The Smoothie is highlighted by its rich, thocky sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it an enticing choice for those who enjoy auditory satisfaction alongside tactile pleasure. Alternatively, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a delightful balance of sound and refined feel, promising a quality typing experience that enthusiasts may find appealing. While their sound and feel characteristics differ, both switches are likely to deliver a fulfilling typing experience that meets the expectations of users in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you gravitate toward a softer, buttery feel with an alluring thocky sound signature, the Smoothie is your ideal companion, particularly suited for those who enjoy a smooth and refined keystroke without a defined bottom-out force. This makes it a fantastic option for casual typing and gaming, where a quiet, yet satisfying experience is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more grounded typing experience with a light bottom-out force, the Sticky Rice (V2) could be your best bet. This switch excels in its balanced performance, producing a neutral sound while providing a refined tactile sensation that enthusiasts appreciate. It's particularly suited for tasks that demand precision and control, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who want that added level of responsiveness. In essence, your choice should reflect your desired balance between sound, feel, and intended use—whether it's the buttery smoothness of the Smoothie or the refined precision of the Sticky Rice (V2).
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