Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two prominent contenders emerge: the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Xinhai. The Sticky Rice (V2) impresses with its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem, offering a balanced typing experience that is both tactile and refined, making it perfect for users who appreciate a subtle "thock" sound without sacrificing the overall feel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai serves up a delightful experience with its unique PA12 top housing that generates softer acoustics, paired with a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch caters to those who favor a bouncy and clacky typing style, ideal for enthusiasts seeking a blend of sophistication and performance. With each switch appealing to different preferences—whether you desire a smooth, tactile sensation or a bright, responsive feel—there's much to consider. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 HMX Xinhai utilize different materials for their top housing, which significantly affects the auditory characteristics of each switch. The Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the material. This makes the switch particularly suited for users looking for a crisper typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal, especially when combined with RGB lighting configurations, making the switch visually striking. In contrast, the Xinhai’s top housing is made from nylon, a classic material known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic construction of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a more subdued auditory experience which may cater to users who prefer a rounder, warmer sound.
Both switches share nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and richer sound profile when typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Sticky Rice (V2) and the Xinhai underlines the common characteristics associated with this material, as it absorbs sound effectively, reducing harshness and creating a more comfortable typing experience. This congruence in the bottom housing ensures that both switches will provide a similar auditory experience in terms of depth and fullness, regardless of their contrasting top housing materials.
When considering the combined impact of the top and bottom housings, it becomes evident that the overall sound experience will vary based on pressing and releasing the keys. The polycarbonate top of the Sticky Rice (V2) will provide a more pronounced acoustic response when keys are released, while the nylon top of the Xinhai will contribute to a distinctly softer release sound. However, when bottoming out and feeling the keypress, both switches will showcase the richness derived from their nylon bottoms. Ultimately, while the differences in top housing materials set the two switches apart in sound profile during typing, their shared nylon bottom yields a common ground that creates a fuller bottom-out experience.
Weight
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer comparable actuation and bottom out forces, making them both suitable options for users seeking lighter switches. The Sticky Rice (V2) features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the HMX Xinhai has slightly lighter specifications, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while both switches are generally light and user-friendly, the Xinhai is marginally lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Xinhai more appealing. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the extra resistance offered by the Sticky Rice (V2) may provide a better tactile experience. Overall, while both switches are considered light, the HMX Xinhai takes the edge in terms of being the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we find that the Sticky Rice (V2) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more pronounced depth with its longer travel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel during their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Xinhai's 3.4 mm travel distance caters to those favoring quicker response times, often desired by gamers. In summary, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is the longer option, while the HMX Xinhai is the shorter switch, providing users with different tactile experiences based on their preferences for travel distance.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 produced by the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch is characterized by a neutral sound signature that resonates with enthusiasts in search of that coveted “thock.” This sound profile offers a well-balanced auditory experience, neither too loud nor excessively muted, making it suitable for various typing environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch delivers a clackier auditory experience, described as crisp and bright. The distinctively high-pitched resonance produced by the PA12 top housing grants the Xinhai a snappy and percussive quality, making it a choice for those who appreciate a sharper auditory feedback when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a super smooth keystroke bolstered by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances performance. This results in a refined typing experience without sacrificing any tactile pleasure. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch gives a bouncy feel, characterized by spring-like feedback, which offers a lively sensation with a delightful rebound upon pressing. Additionally, the creamy aspect of the Xinhai suggests a buttery smoothness, allowing for effortless typing as fingers glide seamlessly across the keys, creating a luxurious tactile experience.
In summary, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) excels in delivering a balanced sound and a smooth, refined feel, the HMX Xinhai switch distinguishes itself through a clackier sound profile and a bouncy, creamy touch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences for sound and tactile sensation, as both offer unique qualities that make them appealing in the world of mechanical keyboards. If one appreciates both the smooth thock and the lively bounce of a keyboard, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience based on what quality is prioritized.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Everglide's Sticky Rice (V2) and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a balanced typing experience with a smooth keystroke and a satisfying “thock” sound, the Sticky Rice (V2) is your ideal choice. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams provides a refined tactile sensation that is particularly appealing for typists who enjoy a bit of feedback without feeling fatigued during long sessions. The dustproof stem further enhances its performance, making it a solid option if durability and a clean feel are priorities for you.
Conversely, if you’re in search of something with a more lively and springy feel, the HMX Xinhai linear switch may be the better option. With its bottom-out force of 45 grams, it offers a lighter actuation that can keep your fingers dancing across the keys with ease. The unique PA12 top housing contributes to its softer acoustics while the POM stem delivers a crisp and bright sound that elevates the experience to a more dynamic and engaging level. If you appreciate the feel of bouncy and creamy keystrokes, or if you find joy in the lively sound of a clacky switch, the Xinhai is likely the switch you want to reach for. In short, consider what aspects—be it sound, feel, or actuation force—matter most to you in your typing experience, and choose accordingly.
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