Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus is a linear switch known for its silky smooth feel and precision, with reduced wobble for a highly satisfying typing experience. With a 55g actuation weight, it strikes a balance between heft and responsiveness. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is a tactile switch crafted with custom molds, offering a medium weight and neutral sound signature at an approachable price point. While the Black Lotus is categorized as 'Silky', 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Polished', the EverFree Grayish falls under 'Neutral', 'Stepped', 'Snappy'. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for linear or tactile feedback, but 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
55g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches differ in their composition and characteristics. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the EverFree Grayish uses a polycarbonate top housing. The PC and UPE Blend material gives the Black Lotus a unique and premium feel, while the polycarbonate material in the EverFree Grayish creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials offer a premium quality, they cater to different sound preferences with the Black Lotus providing a more premium feel and the EverFree Grayish offering a crisper sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the EverFree Grayish switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches indicates that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a more satisfying typing experience with its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile.
While the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches vary in their top housing composition, they both feature a nylon bottom housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in the top housing materials give each switch its unique characteristics, with the Black Lotus offering a premium feel and the EverFree Grayish providing a sharper sound profile. Overall, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch due to the use of nylon in the bottom housing, while the top housing materials cater to individual preferences in terms of feel and sound.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, with 55 grams and 59 grams respectively. However, the Black Lotus has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force for the Grayish tactile switch is unknown. This means that the Black Lotus offers a slightly lighter typing experience initially but requires more force to fully press the key, whereas the Grayish tactile switch has a heavier initial typing force but lacks information on how much force is needed to fully press the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the importance of actuation versus bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron EverFree Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Black Lotus. The Black Lotus, on the other hand, has a slightly longer travel distance. Those who prefer faster response times may opt for the EverFree Grayish switch with its shorter travel distance, while others who enjoy a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the Black Lotus with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black 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 Black Lotus for $4.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is known for a neutral sound signature, which means it offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch also provides a neutral sound experience, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users in different settings.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is renowned for its silky and buttery smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a seamless sensation with each keystroke. Additionally, the switch is categorized as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle and refined typing feel. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped tactile sensation, providing a two-stage feedback in the keystroke and a snappy response for a lively typing experience.
Overall, while the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch have different characteristics in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer quality performance in their respective categories. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can expect a satisfying experience with either switch. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, delivering a blend of precision, smoothness, and tactile feedback that enhance the overall typing pleasure.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and precise typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a neutral sound signature, medium weight, and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider whether you value silky smoothness and in-switch lighting (Black Lotus) or a stepped and snappy tactile feel (EverFree Grayish) when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your individual typing preferences and priorities.
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