Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the unique attributes of different options, and two noteworthy contenders are the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Sunset Gleam. The Sticky Rice (V2) stands out for its delightfully balanced typing experience, characterized by a neutral sound signature that resonates with the coveted "thock" sound that many typists seek. Its super smooth keystroke, enhanced by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, caters to users who value a refined tactile sensation without sacrificing feel. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a distinct linear switch experience, known for its perfect blend of materials that result in a subtle top-out and satisfying clack, paired with the excellent factory lube that HMX consistently delivers. While each switch presents its own unique characteristics and benefits—an exceptional tactile experience versus a smooth linear feel—it's essential to dive deeper beyond these generalities to determine which switch best aligns with your typing preferences and style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Sunset Gleam utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, lending these switches significant sonic characteristics. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, which allows for greater sound clarity and resonance. Moreover, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly appealing for users who prioritize aesthetic elements such as RGB lighting; with both switches featuring this material, they can be expected to deliver similar visual effects. Thus, those seeking vibrant backlighting will experience the same illuminated look across both switch designs.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of these switches diverge from their top counterparts, as both the Sticky Rice (V2) and the Sunset Gleam employ nylon. This choice of material for the bottom housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties enable it to absorb more sound than the harder polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the key is fully depressed. Because the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and tactile feel, users may find that while the switches share characteristics in the upper frequency range, the overall auditory experience may differ during actuation when engaging with the keys.
In summary, although both the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Sunset Gleam share the same polycarbonate top housing material, which makes them visually appealing and sonically crisp, they both leverage nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a full-bodied sound on bottoming out. The combination of these materials creates an interesting auditory balance; with a clear and resonant top sound complemented by a warmer, more rounded bottom sound. Users can expect a unique yet comparable performance in terms of auditory feedback and visual aesthetics due to this thoughtful integration of materials in both switch designs.
Weight
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches both feature light forces, making them suitable for extended use during typing or gaming sessions. The Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly lower actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Sunset Gleam's actuation force of 42 grams, indicating that the Sticky Rice may provide a slightly lighter feel during key presses. In terms of bottom out force, the Sticky Rice reaches 50 grams while the Sunset Gleam has a bottom out force of 48 grams, making the Sunset Gleam marginally lighter at its deepest press. Overall, while both switches are designed for comfortable use, the Sticky Rice offers a somewhat lighter actuation feel, whereas the Sunset Gleam provides a slightly softer bottoming out experience. Thus, for users seeking a lighter touch, the Sticky Rice (V2) would be the preferred choice, whereas those who enjoy a bit more resistance might lean towards the Sunset Gleam.
Travel distance
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this regard. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, as both require the same amount of travel to register a key press. This uniformity in travel distance suggests that switching between these two options will not lead to any significant differences in feel or performance during typing or gaming sessions.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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) switch is lauded for its neutral sound profile, producing a noise that leans towards the desirable "thock" that many keyboard enthusiasts crave. This indicates a deeper and more gratifying acoustic experience when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch offers a subtle top-out alongside a satisfying clack, suggesting a brighter sound that contrasts with the Sticky Rice’s thock. Together, these switches cater to different auditory preferences—those who appreciate a subdued, rich sound versus those who enjoy a sharper acoustic feedback, although the final sound profile will ultimately depend on the specific keyboard and keycap choice used.
When it comes to feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) is celebrated for its remarkably smooth keystroke, enhanced by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and elevates the typing experience. This results in a refined tactile sensation that many users find appealing. In comparison, the Sunset Gleam is designed to deliver a smooth linear feel, bolstered by excellent factory lubrication. This specificity in the design fosters an effortless and consistent keystroke that can be fantastic for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have their unique qualities—stem design and material utilization—that contribute to a smooth typing experience, but they cater to slightly different tactile preferences.
Overall, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and HMX Sunset Gleam switches have distinct auditory and tactile profiles, they share a common thread in providing smoothness and an appealing user experience. The Sticky Rice leans towards a deeper sound and a more refined thock, while the Sunset Gleam introduces a lively clack with linear smoothness. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on personal sound preference and what tactile feedback you find most satisfying, but both can deliver enjoyable typing experiences when matched with the right keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Everglide's Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a delightfully balanced typing experience with a smooth keystroke and a satisfying "thock" sound, then the Sticky Rice (V2) is your go-to option. Its thoughtful design reduces wobble and enhances the overall performance, making it ideal for those who want a refined tactile sensation during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a linear switch that offers a subtle top-out with a satisfying clack sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam would be a better fit. Its excellent factory lube and unique sound signature can enhance your enjoyment, particularly if you prefer a less tactile feedback and a focus on a seamless keypress. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the blend of sound, feel, and performance that resonates most with your typing style and preferences.
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