Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish. The Blue Lotus switch by Durock is notable for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, offering a marked tactile feel with slightly reduced travel distance at 3.7mm. Additionally, it features a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, combining performance with visual appeal. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is recognized for its custom molds, providing a medium weight and neutral sound signature at an approachable price point. While the Blue Lotus is described as 'Accented', 'Bassy', and 'Snappy', the EF Grayish is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Snappy'. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into specifics will help in determining the best switch for individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 long spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus features a unique blend of Modified PC & UPE for its top housing, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes polycarbonate. The Modified PC & UPE blend of the Blue Lotus provides a premium feel, while the polycarbonate used in the EF Grayish offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both materials have their own strengths, with the blend in the Blue Lotus creating a more unique tactile experience and the polycarbonate in the EF Grayish emphasizing clarity and resonance in sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Blue Lotus and the EF Grayish utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in material choice for the bottom housing means that both switches will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the nylon contributing to a more satisfying typing experience with its unique sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are still present. The bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their unique blend of materials, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is clear that the Blue Lotus is lighter in terms of both forces. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has an actuation force of 59 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Blue Lotus, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the EverFree (EF) Grayish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Lotus. The difference may not be very significant, but for those who prefer a slightly shallower key press, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the better option. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance, which some users may find provides a more satisfying typing experience with a bit more depth to the key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue 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 Blue Lotus switch is known for its bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps attached.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Blue Lotus and the EverFree (EF) Grayish are described as having a stepped tactile feel. This means that they provide a two-stage tactile feedback sensation, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. Additionally, both switches are noted for being snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience that adds to the overall enjoyment of using the keyboard.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Lotus provides a bassy sound profile and an accented and snappy tactile feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile experience that is also snappy. Both switches present appealing options for users seeking a tactile switch with specific characteristics, ultimately allowing for a satisfying typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switches, you should consider your preference for tactile intensity and sound profile. If you enjoy a marked tactile feel with a snappy response and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a medium weight switch at an approachable price point, the EF Grayish switches are a solid option. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two tactile switches.
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