Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different typing preferences and styles. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its delightfully balanced typing experience, featuring a neutral sound profile that produces the sought-after "thock" sound that many users crave. This switch is praised for its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem, which minimizes wobble and enhances overall performance, making it an ideal choice for those who value a refined tactile sensation without compromising on feel. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte is a linear switch that utilizes the latest mold technology to deliver a smooth and satisfying experience with a balanced sound profile that strikes a perfect equilibrium between quietness and resonance. This makes the Strawberry Latte particularly appealing to gamers and typists who prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted keypress. Each switch offers distinct advantages that cater to different preferences: the technical sophistication and refined sound of the Sticky Rice (V2) versus the smooth linearity and user-friendly design of the Strawberry Latte. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches, it becomes evident that both switches employ a blend of materials, contributing to their unique sound profiles and tactile characteristics. The Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency enhances the RGB lighting effect, making it visually appealing. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing that is not only considered one of the smoothest materials available but also provides exceptional durability and shock resistance. While the polycarbonate's strength results in clarity, the POK material contributes to a smoother typing experience with a distinct clacky sound. Thus, while both housings differ in material, they each promote a unique sonic signature that could satisfy different user preferences.
Turning to the bottom housing, both switches are constructed with nylon, a classic choice well-regarded for its softer plastic properties. This shared material induces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon naturally absorbs sound compared to harder materials. Consequently, the bottom-out sound is more muted and rounded for both the Sticky Rice (V2) and the Strawberry Latte, fostering a satisfying tactile experience. Since nylon is inherently selected for its sound-muffling capabilities, this similarity in bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a rich auditory experience, despite their distinct top housing materials.
In summary, the combination of a polycarbonate or POK top housing with a nylon bottom housing emphasizes how each material influences the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate offers sharpness and brightness from the top, while the nylon mellowens the sound at the base. The POK provides smoothness, aiding in a clackier experience when paired with the nylon's deeper sound absorption. Users seeking a blend of characteristics may enjoy the varied acoustic results each switch offers, as the differing top materials work in tandem with the identical nylon base to present a unique and nuanced typing experience. This blending of materials thus results in a broadened auditory spectrum, catering to diverse taste in sound and feel endeavors.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, both options provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended usage such as long work sessions or gaming marathons. The Sticky Rice (V2) has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Strawberry Latte features a slightly lighter actuation force of 35 grams with a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that not only does the Strawberry Latte require less force to actuate, but it also bottoms out at a lower force, making it the lighter option overall. Consequently, users who favor a lighter push feel for a more effortless typing experience will likely prefer the Strawberry Latte, whereas those who appreciate a slightly more substantial actuation may lean towards the Sticky Rice (V2). Overall, while both switches are on the lighter end of the spectrum, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces cater to varying preferences in typing sensation.
Travel distance
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Sticky Rice switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry Latte. For gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness, the Sticky Rice may be the preferred option due to its more immediate actuation. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced feel when pressing the key, as it can provide a sense of depth that some users find satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus hearty depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches are known for their neutral sound signature that delivers a satisfying "thock" that typists and gamers alike find pleasurable. This sound profile strikes a balance that appeals to enthusiasts, offering a more subdued yet pleasing auditory feedback during use. Conversely, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches produce a similarly balanced sound profile. While they are not overly quiet, they do not create excessive resonance either, allowing for a pleasant audio experience that complements various typing and gaming scenarios. Both switches will offer a satisfying auditory experience, although the specific nuances of the sound may vary slightly based on your choice of keycaps and board.
When considering the feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) is characterized by its super smooth keystroke that offers a refined tactile sensation due to the dustproof stem, which effectively reduces wobble and enhances performance. This key feeling can be very appealing to individuals who value precision in their typing experience. The Strawberry Latte switches are also praised for their super smooth action, attributed to the latest mold technology from Huano. Like the Sticky Rice (V2), users can expect a comfortable and fluid keystroke that eliminates annoying friction or stutter, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience. Both options present a high level of smoothness that can meet the expectations of users seeking premium feel.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and Huano Strawberry Latte switches offer commendable qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to a wide range of preferences. The Sticky Rice (V2) provides a desirable "thock" while maintaining an overall neutral sound profile, similarly echoed by the Strawberry Latte's balanced sound. In terms of feel, both switches are recognized for their smooth keystrokes, making them excellent choices for users who prioritize tactile comfort and performance. Depending on personal preference, either option may serve well for both typing efficiency and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you are looking for a more balanced and refined auditory and tactile experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) is an excellent choice, especially for those who appreciate that satisfying "thock" sound while typing. Its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem design cater well to users who prioritize a clean and enjoyable feel, making it ideal for extensive typing sessions or situations where noise control is beneficial. On the other hand, if you're seeking a lighter touch with a smooth linear response, the Strawberry Latte might be more to your liking. With its lighter 45-gram bottom out force and balanced sound profile, this switch is well-suited for gaming or rapid typing tasks where a whisper-quiet operation without being overly resonant is advantageous. Ultimately, considering your typing style, the importance of sound, and tactile feedback will guide you toward the switch that will enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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