Everglide Bamboo Green vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience but with distinct characteristics. The Bamboo Green is known for its clacky sound signature and sparkling tactility, providing a sharp and resonant typing feel. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switches are praised for their medium weight and neutral sound signature, making them an approachable option for those looking for a balanced tactile switch at a reasonable price. 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
43g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PBT
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both have unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Bamboo Green features a PBT top and bottom housing, which offers a neutral sound profile that is neither sharp nor dull. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The use of PBT in the Bamboo Green's housing material may result in a more consistent sound overall, while the polycarbonate in the EverFree Grayish may provide a more distinct and resonant sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Bamboo Green and the EverFree Grayish differ once again. The Bamboo Green's PBT bottom housing maintains a neutral sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the EverFree Grayish features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing may offer a more subdued and rounded sound experience compared to switches with a PBT bottom housing. These differences in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switches.
While the housing materials of the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron EverFree Grayish may differ, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The combination of PBT top and bottom housing in the Bamboo Green may result in a more consistent and neutral sound experience, while the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing in the EverFree Grayish create a sharper, more resonant sound profile. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound qualities. Whether you prefer a more neutral sound or a sharper, crisper profile, both switches offer a range of options to cater to your typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Bamboo Green is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the EF Grayish's 59 grams. However, the Bamboo Green has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams whereas the EF Grayish's bottom out force is not known. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the Bamboo Green may be preferred for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing periods, while the EF Grayish may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and firm typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces in a mechanical keyboard.
Travel distance
The Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Bamboo Green has a longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Bamboo Green offers a more traditional feel and can be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper press when typing. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance of the EverFree Grayish provides a more responsive typing experience, which can be advantageous for gamers or those who prefer quicker key presses. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Bamboo Green has an MSRP of $9.67 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bamboo Green for $7.19.
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 Bamboo Green offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, creating a sharp and crisp sound with each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a more neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement that makes it suitable for a variety of users and environments. The choice between these two switches would come down to whether you prefer a more distinctive and immersive sound like the Bamboo Green or a more versatile and neutral sound like the EF Grayish.
In terms of feel, both the Bamboo Green and the EverFree (EF) Grayish switches are described as stepped, providing a tactile experience with two stages of feedback. The Bamboo Green offers an accented and sharp tactile bump that is distinct and intense, providing a satisfying typing experience. In comparison, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is noted for its snappy and responsive feel, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs that enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced and sharp tactile feedback like the Bamboo Green or a snappier and responsive feel like the EF Grayish.
In conclusion, the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bamboo Green provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with an accented and sharp tactile feel, while the EF Grayish offers a neutral sound profile with a snappy and responsive tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer different strengths that cater to individual typing preferences. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer quality tactile feedback that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound signature with sharp tactility, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a medium weight, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, so consider what you prioritize in your typing experience when making your selection.
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