Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often gravitate towards the unique characteristics they offer. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its superbly balanced typing experience, providing a smooth keystroke paired with a satisfying "thock" sound that captivates both typists and gamers alike. This switch's dustproof stem significantly reduces wobble, enhancing overall performance and delivering a refined tactile sensation without sacrificing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Type L, a linear switch from the innovative Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" series, is designed for those who prefer a lighter touch, requiring just 45g to bottom out. With its deeper acoustic signature, the Type L offers a more subdued auditory feedback, making it ideal for users who appreciate a quiet yet responsive typing experience. While the Sticky Rice (V2) appeals to those seeking tactile satisfaction with a balanced sound profile, the Type L caters to users looking for effortless keystrokes and muted sounds. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Gateron Type L switches differ significantly in their choice of materials for the top housing, which affects the auditory experience they're designed to deliver. The Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This crispness is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a clearer resonance when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through brilliantly and enhances the visual aesthetics of the keyboard.
In contrast, the Gateron Type L utilizes a nylon top housing. This material, considered classic in the switch community, produces a deeper, fuller sound profile, reminiscent of the softer, more muted qualities of nylon. The inherent softness of nylon helps to absorb sound waves more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a more subdued sound. This distinction implies that while both switches serve the purpose of providing a tactile feedback experience, their sound characteristics can be markedly different depending on the material of the top housing. Thus, the overall experience while typing on the Type L may be more rounded, catering to those who prefer a less piercing sound.
Both switches, however, incorporate nylon in their bottom housings, which significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel experienced during use. Since both models utilize nylon for this section, the deeper, fuller sound quality associated with this material will be present in both switches, contributing to a consistent auditory experience when bottoming out. Ultimately, while the two switches offer contrasting top housing materials which define their unique sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing commonality ensures a familiar tactile feedback across both options. Users looking for a balance of sound characteristics can still achieve similar outcomes when considering the overall performance of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch to the Gateron Type L linear switch, both switches exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but there are subtle differences worth noting. The Sticky Rice (V2) has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Gateron Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Gateron Type L is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it slightly more suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) provides a slightly firmer push, which some may prefer for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, while both switches are considered light, the Gateron Type L is the lighter option, offering a gentler touch compared to the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), which may appeal to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it's clear that the Sticky Rice has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type L offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference may influence user experience significantly; those who prefer quicker responses, such as gamers, might lean towards the Sticky Rice switch for its shorter travel distance, enabling faster actuation. In contrast, users who appreciate a more substantial feel might favor the Gateron Type L, as its 4 mm travel distance provides a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
The sound quality of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch is characterized by a neutral sound signature that elegantly hints at a deeper "thock," providing a satisfying auditory feedback that is often sought after by keyboard enthusiasts. In comparison, the Gateron Type L exhibits a more subdued sound profile, with a deeper tone when pressed. While the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a lively yet balanced acoustic experience, the Type L leans towards a moderate and less pronounced sound, making it suitable for diverse environments, from quiet offices to casual gaming setups. Ultimately, the choice between them may depend on personal preference for either subtlety or a more pronounced thock.
When it comes to feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) is known for its refined tactile sensation that combines smoothness with a touch of resistance, allowing for a balanced typing experience that minimizes wobble due to its dustproof stem. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is described as feathery and easy to press, requiring minimal effort to actuate. This light actuation force reduces finger strain and fatigue, making it particularly comfortable during extended typing sessions. The focus on feather-light operation in the Type L contrasts with the more tactile feedback of the Sticky Rice (V2), catering to different typing styles and preferences.
In summary, both the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and Gateron Type L switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to various user preferences. The Sticky Rice (V2) provides an enticing thock and a refined tactile experience, while the Type L leans towards a subdued sound with a notably light touch. Ultimately, the best choice depends on whether you prioritize a pronounced acoustic feedback or prefer a feather-light, low-impact typing experience. Each switch has its merits and will deliver quality performance, ensuring an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Gateron Type L linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a balanced and refined typing experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) is ideal for you. With its delightful “thock” sound signature and smooth keystrokes, it offers a tactile sensation that enthusiasts crave, making it suitable for both casual and serious typing. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the tactile feedback without sacrificing comfort, especially during longer typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer an exceptionally light touch and a subtle acoustic profile, the Gateron Type L would be your best bet. With its feathery feel and easy-to-press actuation, it reduces finger fatigue, making it perfect for intensive tasks such as gaming or extensive typing for school or work. Ultimately, your choice comes down to whether you prioritize a refined feel and sound with the Sticky Rice (V2) or the effortless typing experience offered by the Type L. Both switches offer excellent performance, so consider what aspects matter most to you in your keyboard experience.
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