HMX Cheese vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch. The Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switches are crafted using custom molds and are praised for their medium weight, neutral sound signature, and approachable price point. While the Cheese excels in its ultra-light feel, the EF Grayish stands out as a solid default tactile option. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches. However, the Cheese differs in its top housing material, which is nylon, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making the Grayish switch suitable for those looking for a more clear and resonant sound.
Furthermore, the aesthetic differences between the two switches are also notable, as the EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing allows for greater translucency, making it ideal for users who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. This enables the Grayish switch to offer a visually striking experience in addition to its unique sound profile. In contrast, the Cheese's nylon top housing may not provide the same level of visual appeal, but it still offers a comfortable typing experience with its softer material. Both switches provide users with options depending on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
It is essential to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. While both the Cheese and the EverFree (EF) Grayish utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a deep and full sound profile, they differ in their top housing materials. This means that users can expect a split in the qualities each housing material brings to the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish will depend on the user's preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, as each switch offers a unique typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter overall. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the EverFree (EF) Grayish's 59 grams, making the Cheese easier to press for triggering keystrokes. Additionally, the Cheese has a bottom out force of 46 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish is unknown. This means that the Cheese requires less force to fully press the key compared to the EverFree (EF) Grayish, providing a smoother and lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is slightly longer at 3.5 mm compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch at 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers for their faster response times. However, while the Cheese offers a slightly longer travel distance, the difference is minimal and may not be significant in terms of feel or performance. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive key press, either of these switches would provide similar results due to their comparable travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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 HMX Cheese switches are well-loved for their clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, making typing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches provide a neutral sound signature, which is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cheese switches offer an unparalleled smoothness and typing experience, with an ultra-light feel that is lighter than the majority of switches available. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches are described as stepped and snappy, providing a tactile typing experience with a mild bump and responsive feel. These qualities can impact the typing experience and overall comfort depending on individual preferences.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese linear switches and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. While the Cheese switches provide a light and smooth typing experience with a distinctive sound, the EverFree Grayish switches offer a neutral sound profile and a tactile feel that is responsive and mild. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience. However, rest assured that both switches deliver quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between HMX Cheese linear switches and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switches, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switches may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a neutral sound profile and a more stepped and snappy tactile feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing experience.
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