Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Gazzew U4T, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is celebrated for its super smooth keystroke and balanced typing experience, enhanced by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. This switch produces a neutral sound signature that hints at the coveted "thock" sound, making it a great choice for typists seeking a refined, yet satisfying typing feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T excels in delivering a harmonious blend of tactile feedback and auditory pleasure, characterized by its bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactility that ensures each keystroke feels impactful. While the Sticky Rice (V2) is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and subtle experience, the U4T caters to enthusiasts looking for a more pronounced tactile sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Gazzew U4T switches, their distinct choices contribute to unique auditory characteristics and tactile feedback. The top housing of the Sticky Rice (V2) is made of polycarbonate, a material known for its rigidity, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is especially advantageous for users who prioritize clarity and brightness in their keystrokes, while the polycarbonate's translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal, especially when RGB lighting is used. On the other hand, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, which is softer. This results in a sound profile that is warmer and richer, distinctly lowering the pitch and offering a softer auditory experience. While both switches can achieve engaging sound qualities, the specific materials lead to a notable divergence in their tonal outputs.
The bottom housings of both switches are equally significant in the comparative analysis. The Sticky Rice (V2) employs nylon, a classic switch housing material that dampens sound due to its softer composition. This enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile experienced when typing or bottoming out. In contrast, the U4T features the same proprietary Gazzew blend in the bottom housing, which also emphasizes a rich and deep sound profile due to its composition. This commonality in the bottom housing's materials suggests that both switches will deliver a satisfying tactile feedback experience, although the nuances of sound may differ based on the unique characteristics of each top housing.
Ultimately, when pressing either switch, the distinct qualities of the top and bottom housing materials come into play. While the Sticky Rice (V2) produces a brighter sound when releasing a key due to the polycarbonate's stiffer structure, the Gazzew U4T offers a more rounded sound profile because of its softer top housing. Conversely, both switches share similar bottom housing properties, leading to a fuller and deeper sound upon bottoming out. Users interested in exploring switches with varied auditory profiles can expect that, despite their differing top housings, both the Sticky Rice (V2) and the U4T can provide a refreshing experience, primarily influenced by the interaction of each housing's materials.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Sticky Rice (V2) features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the U4T's bottom out force is heavier at 65 grams, while its actuation force is undefined, which suggests that it may require a stronger push feel, aligning more with users who prefer a substantial typing experience. As a result, the Gazzew U4T can be classified as medium-heavy, catering to those who enjoy more resistance during key presses. Overall, if you favor a lighter switch for comfort during long usage, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) would be a better choice, whereas the Gazzew U4T may satisfy those who appreciate a more robust feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The Sticky Rice (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4T features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that the U4T switch provides a more pronounced feel during keystrokes, potentially appealing to those who appreciate a bit more depth in their switches. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to gamers or users who prefer a quicker, more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, if you lean towards faster response times, the Sticky Rice (V2) would be the preferable choice, while those who favor a more substantial feel might opt for the Gazzew U4T.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a neutral sound signature that aligns well with the "thock" sound favored by many enthusiasts, delivering a balanced auditory experience without becoming overpowering. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T presents a more pronounced acoustic profile, distinctly characterized by a bassy and thocky sound. This deeper, richer auditory quality provides a satisfying auditory feedback, reminiscent of a solid "thud" with each keystroke. While both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through sound, the U4T delivers a more robust and resonant audio experience compared to the smoother tone of the Sticky Rice.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) excels with its super smooth keystroke, allowing for a refined tactile sensation that minimizes wobble and enhances overall performance. This makes for a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, catering to those who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T provides a sharp tactile feedback that is noticeably intense and pronounced. The strong tactile bump ensures that each keypress is felt distinctly, catering to users who relish a more assertive tactile experience. While the Sticky Rice focuses on smoothness and a neutral feel, the U4T emphasizes crisp feedback, resulting in a different overall sensation with every stroke.
Ultimately, both the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Gazzew U4T offer distinct qualities that appeal to different types of keyboard enthusiasts. If you prefer a balanced sound and a smooth feel, the Sticky Rice may be your choice. However, if you seek sharp tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory presence, the U4T stands out as a compelling option. Despite their differences, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, highlighting the diverse preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, your choice should reflect your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you favor a lightweight touch with a smooth keystroke and a neutral sound signature, the Sticky Rice (V2) is a superb option, especially for long typing sessions where comfort and refinement take precedence. Its lower actuation force of 50 grams allows for effortless typing, making it ideal for those who enjoy a subtle tactile feel without overwhelming feedback. On the other hand, if you crave a more pronounced tactile experience characterized by a deep, bassy "thock" and a higher bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Gazzew U4T would be your go-to choice. Its sharp tactile feedback provides satisfying resistance, perfect for gamers or typists who appreciate clear and confident keystrokes. Ultimately, choose the Sticky Rice (V2) for a smooth and relaxed typing experience, while the U4T serves best for those who seek auditory and tactile satisfaction with every press.
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