Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch, and the Durock White Lotus, a tactile switch. The Sticky Rice (V2) is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and refined tactile sensation, delivering a neutral sound signature that produces the desirable "thock" sound sought after by enthusiasts. This switch is particularly appealing for those who value a balanced typing experience, as its dustproof stem minimizes wobble and enhances performance. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus offers a light tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for longer typing sessions due to its delicate tactility that won't overwhelm the user. Additionally, the removable light column allows for striking RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic flair to any keyboard setup. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Sticky Rice (V2) is ideal for those seeking a smooth and satisfying thock, while the White Lotus is perfect for users who prioritize a subtle tactile feel and visual appeal. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Durock White Lotus switches, while utilizing different materials for their top housing components, share a fundamental characteristic in their bottom housing that influences their acoustic profiles. The Sticky Rice (V2) uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This feature makes it ideal for setups that require clear and resonant auditory feedback, especially in RGB environments due to its translucency. In comparison, the Durock White Lotus features a modified blend of polycarbonate and UPE in its top housing. While this blend offers a premium feel, it lacks the pure clarity and resonance associated with polycarbonate alone. However, the unique blend could provide a slightly warmer sound, differing from the sharper tones of the Sticky Rice (V2).
On the other hand, both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housing, a material renowned for its ability to absorb sound. This shared component produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is especially evident during key presses. As nylon is inherently a softer plastic, it effectively dampens auditory vibrations that occur upon key release, resulting in a rounder and less piercing sound. Because both the Sticky Rice (V2) and the White Lotus use this nylon material for the bottom housing, their sound characteristics in this regard will be closely aligned, contributing to a similarly muted auditory experience during typing, despite their differing top housing configurations.
Ultimately, the interaction between the two different top housing materials and the common nylon bottom housing delineates the overall sound profile of each switch. While the Sticky Rice (V2) may emit a brighter and sometimes sharper sound due to its polycarbonate top, the Durock White Lotus aims for a more balanced sound by incorporating a modified blend. Nevertheless, both switches will be influenced by the friendly properties of nylon, ensuring that users will still experience a fuller and richer sound profile when typing. Thus, even with their distinct top housing materials, the end result would still cater to players and typists who appreciate a well-rounded auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Sticky Rice (V2) features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the White Lotus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, offering a more substantial feel that appeals to those who enjoy a stronger push sensation. Consequently, the Sticky Rice (V2) can be classified as the lighter option, while the White Lotus is the heavier choice. These differences in weight mean that typists seeking a lighter switch for prolonged use will likely gravitate towards the Sticky Rice (V2), whereas those looking for a more robust typing experience may prefer the Durock White Lotus.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Sticky Rice (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the White Lotus boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you favor a more responsive typing experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) could be the better option since it offers a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers for quicker actuation. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus, with its greater travel distance, provides a deeper and potentially more satisfying feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth in the typing experience.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 comparing the sound of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, both offer a neutral sound signature, appealing to those who gravitate towards a more refined auditory experience while typing. The Sticky Rice (V2) is noted for its "thock" sound, delivering a satisfying acoustic feedback that many enthusiasts seek, while the White Lotus also possesses a neutral tone with a low-pitched quality that ensures a mellow and appealing sound profile. This combination makes both switches suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a shared workspace, as they will not disrupt those around you.
In terms of feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) excels with its super smooth keystroke and reduced wobble due to its dustproof stem, creating a balanced typing sensation that many users appreciate. This smoothness caters to both tactile and typing enthusiasts seeking a refined experience. In contrast, the White Lotus switches provide a gentle tactile feedback that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. Their light actuation force makes them easy to press, promoting an effortless typing experience while minimizing finger fatigue. Both switches strike a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making them ideal for long periods of use.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and Durock White Lotus switches showcase distinct yet complementary qualities that cater to different preferences. The Sticky Rice (V2) leans towards an auditory appeal with its satisfying "thock," while the White Lotus enhances the typing experience through its gentle tactility and effortless actuation. Together, they offer a range of experiences suitable for various typing needs, allowing new users to explore the nuances of mechanical keyboards without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you prefer a smoother ride like the Sticky Rice or a lightweight touch with the White Lotus, both options promise to elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you prefer a gentle and smooth typing experience with a satisfying "thock" sound, the Sticky Rice (V2) is an excellent option. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for both gaming and fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you seek a balanced tactile feedback that remains comfortable during extended typing sessions, consider the White Lotus. With a medium-light force of 56 grams and a more subtle tactile response, it is perfect for professional environments where you need a blend of typing comfort and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile that won't disturb colleagues. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize that highly refined feeling and sound of the Sticky Rice or the gentle tactility and RGB lighting options of the White Lotus.
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