Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat stand out as noteworthy options, each offering distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its balanced typing experience, delivering a neutral sound signature that provides the satisfying "thock" favored by enthusiasts. Its dustproof stem reduces wobble and enhances smooth keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking refined tactile feedback without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat, recognized for its linear design, features Ly stems that facilitate an exceptionally smooth typing experience, accompanied by a resonant sound profile that appeals to users who prefer a quieter keypress without tactile bumps. While both switches excel in smoothness, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a tactile sensation and sound signature that enthusiasts adore, whereas the Tomcat focuses on a linear, silent action perfect for quick typing and gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat share striking similarities in their housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The polycarbonate used in both switches contributes significantly to their sound profile, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This quality is attributed to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, which allows it to resonate more clearly, enhancing both the sound and the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing ensures that any integrated lighting shines through beautifully, making both switches an excellent choice for users looking to add a vibrant visual element to their keyboard setup.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Sticky Rice (V2) and the Tomcat utilize nylon, a material renowned for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer texture absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This specific sound absorption characteristic makes it apt for providing a more cushioned feel upon bottoming out. Since both switches employ the same high-quality nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a consistent typing experience defined by a rich, engaging sound profile, further solidifying both models as compelling choices for keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat are constructed from different materials for their respective top and bottom housings, the overall performance and auditory experiences can be quite similar. The polycarbonate tops accentuate the clarity and brightness of each keystroke, while the nylon bottoms ensure a rounded and fulfilling sound when typing or bottoming out. Together, these materials create a harmonious balance that allows users of either switch to enjoy a comparable typing experience, blending sharp resonance with a rich, softer response.
Weight
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams. This difference indicates that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming might gravitate towards the Sticky Rice (V2). Conversely, those who favor a more substantial feel while typing may prefer the Tomcat, which requires a bit more force to actuate and bottom out. When considering comfort and feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) can help lessen finger fatigue during long-term usage, making it suitable for on-the-go scenarios, while the Tomcat's medium-light forces offer a unique balance for users seeking firm feedback without being overly taxing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we find that the Sticky Rice (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm shows that, although both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances which are favored by gamers for their responsiveness, the Tomcat may provide a touch more depth in actuation, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Consequently, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is the shorter option, while the Bsun Tomcat linear switch takes the title for the longer travel distance. If users prioritize quick response times, they might gravitate toward the Sticky Rice (V2), whereas those who enjoy a fuller keypress experience may lean towards the Tomcat.
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 Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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 offers a neutral sound signature that hints at the well-regarded "thock" sound, which is often favored by keyboard enthusiasts for its pleasing acoustic profile. This balanced sound gives it a versatile character that works well in various environments. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch provides a more resonant sound profile, contributing to a distinct auditory experience when typing. While both sound experiences can vary based on factors like the keyboard construction and keycap choice, the Sticky Rice focuses more on a subtle thock while the Tomcat leans into a pronounced resonance.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch is characterized by an exceptionally smooth keystroke, aided by its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. This design creates a refined tactile sensation, appealing to users who prefer a balanced typing experience without significant tactile feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch also emphasizes smoothness, featuring Ly stems for an ultra-smooth typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a seamless typing feel, making them excellent choices for those who enjoy effortless keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and Bsun Tomcat linear switches each have their unique attributes that cater to different preferences. While the Sticky Rice leans towards a neutral sound with a hint of thock and delivers a refined typing experience, the Tomcat provides a resonant auditory profile, both proudly offering super smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, whether you prefer the balanced sound of the Sticky Rice or the more resonant output of the Tomcat, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with both switches, making either choice a commendable addition to your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, determining the right mechanical keyboard switch tailored to your needs can significantly enhance your typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a lighter feel coupled with a satisfying tactile response, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch may be the ideal choice for you. With its 50-gram bottom-out force and the delicately balanced typing experience devoid of excessive noise, the Sticky Rice is particularly suited for those who prioritize smoothness and a refined tactile feedback without too much resistance. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly firmer feel with a robust sound profile, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is likely a better fit. With a 54-gram bottom-out force, the Tomcat's Ly stems provide a super smooth action, heightened by a resonant sound that many users find satisfying during intense gaming sessions or long typing marathons. In essence, your choice should primarily hinge on whether you value lightness and a whisper-soft typing experience, or medium-light resistance paired with a more audible feedback. By understanding these distinctive characteristics, you can make an informed decision that caters to your preferences and enhances your overall interaction with your keyboard.
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