Kailh Berry vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry, a linear switch, and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch. The Berry switches are well-known for their linear feel with a hefty typing experience and a springy texture, offering a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switches are praised for their tactile feedback, crafted with custom molds to provide a medium weight and neutral sound signature at an approachable price point. While the Berry switches offer a textured and low-pitched typing experience, the EF Grayish switches provide a more neutral and snappy feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Berry and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In terms of aesthetics, clear housings are often associated with polycarbonate, highlighting its popularity in the mechanical keyboard community.
In contrast, the Berry and EverFree (EF) Grayish both feature nylon bottom housings, which offer a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This classic switch housing material brings a different tactile experience to typing on these switches, emphasizing the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Berry and EverFree (EF) Grayish differ in material, both contribute unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. By combining polycarbonate and nylon in their housings, these switches offer a versatile typing experience that caters to those who value both sound profile and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. This makes the Berry switch heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference; some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch for extended typing sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the Berry switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is clear that the Berry has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the EverFree Grayish's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and feedback, the Kailh Berry may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker actuation, the Gateron EverFree Grayish may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific feel you are looking for in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone during key presses, providing a deep and mellow sound profile with a significant tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a more neutral sound signature, which is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The sound produced by both switches can be further influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used with them.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch provides a textured typing experience with noticeable friction, giving users a distinct tactile feedback. Conversely, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile sensation with a snappy response that feels responsive and engaging. This difference in feel can cater to different preferences, with the Berry offering a more textured experience and the EF Grayish providing a snappier and stepped feel.
Overall, while the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches are high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Berry excels in providing a deep, bassy sound profile and a textured typing experience, while the EF Grayish offers a more neutral sound signature and a snappy, stepped feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture and fairly deep sound profile, the Berry switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature, medium weight, and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch crafted using custom molds may suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as sound, feel, and typing experience that align with your personal preferences and typing style.
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