Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the offerings of brands, especially when two captivating tactile options like the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish are available. The Bsun Cliff is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, providing a satisfyingly responsive typing experience that many users crave. Its unique characteristics make it an ideal choice for those who appreciate both feedback and auditory pleasure in their typing. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out as a stellar default option, thanks to its custom molds, neutral sound signature, and medium weight—ideal for users seeking a balanced, all-around switch without breaking the bank. While both switches cater to those who prefer a tactile feel, their distinct sound profiles and design philosophies set them apart. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish share an important similarity in their upper housing material, as both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is characterized as crisper and clearer due to the rigid nature of polycarbonate. The translucency of the material also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, as the light can clearly shine through. This shared property suggests that if both switches are configured in similar lighting environments, users could expect to achieve a comparable visual effect and auditory experience when pressing the keys.
When examining the lower housing materials, both the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish utilize nylon for their bottom housings. The use of nylon, known for its softer plastic characteristics, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material’s inherent ability to absorb sound leads to a rounder and more muted acoustics compared to harder plastics, enhancing the overall typing experience. Because the bottom housing is crucial to the sound upon bottoming out and the tactile feel while typing, both switches should provide a pleasantly rich acoustic experience, despite their different top housing designs.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the Bsun Cliff and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish creates distinctive experiences for users. The polycarbonate top should ensure that the typing experience delivers a bright and resonant sound with a visual appeal for RGB setups, while the nylon bottom absorbs sound and creates a more subdued tonal quality upon bottoming out. Together, these contrasting materials complement each other well, enhancing the overall performance of the switches by balancing the crispness of the top housing with the warmth of the bottom housing. Users can expect a well-rounded auditory experience, characterized by the interplay between the sharper highs from the polycarbonate and the fuller lows from the nylon.
Weight
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch present a notable contrast in actuation forces, with the Cliff switch requiring a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the EF Grayish's significantly heavier actuation force of 59 grams. This difference means that typists and gamers who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may find the Cliff more suitable, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel and feedback will likely appreciate the EF Grayish. The bottom out force for the Bsun Cliff is specified at 45 grams, indicating a well-defined tactile response when fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Gateron EverFree is unknown, making it more challenging to compare that aspect directly. Nevertheless, with the Cliff being lighter overall in both actuation and bottom out force, it appeals to those who prioritize ease of use, while the heavier EF Grayish is tailored for those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, the Bsun Cliff features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Cliff the longer travel option between the two. For users who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the EverFree may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation suitable for gaming and fast-paced typing. Conversely, those who appreciate a more tactile and deep feel when pressing keys might find the Bsun Cliff's travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will largely depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and the tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 comparing the sound of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch, the Cliff is characterized by its crisp sound signature. This means that each keystroke provides a more pronounced auditory feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy a clear and distinct sound while typing. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a more neutral sound profile, which strikes a balance that is suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office. This makes it less intrusive to others around you, while still offering a satisfying auditory experience. If you're considering two switches with a sound level that caters to different preferences, the Cliff might be for those who appreciate an assertive sound, while the EverFree caters to users leaning towards discretion without sacrificing presence.
In terms of feel, the Cliff switch exhibits medium tactility that offers a comfortable level of resistance as you type. However, specific details about its tactile response are not provided. Conversely, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch boasts a stepped tactile feel, providing two stages of feedback during the keystroke, which lends itself to a more nuanced typing experience. It also features a snappy quality, making it very responsive due to likely longer or dual-staged springs. The responsive nature combined with a pleasant tactile feedback of the EverFree ensures that users experience a lively typing sensation, complementing those looking for both comfort and precision.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Cliff and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switches offer appealing qualities, albeit in different areas. The Cliff stands out for its crisp sound, while the EverFree excels with its neutral sound profile and an engaging stepped and snappy feel. Depending on personal preferences, users may choose the Cliff for its clear auditory feedback or the EverFree for its versatility in both sound and tactile response. Ultimately, each switch serves distinct typing experiences while balancing tactile feedback and sound to cater to a variety of users in different environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider the kind of typing experience you desire. If you appreciate a light actuation force combined with a medium level of tactility and a crisp sound, the Cliff switch could be your best bet, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced feel with each keypress. This option is ideal for those who type quickly and want a responsive switch that can keep up with their speed in a lively manner. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more neutral sound profile and a versatile tactile experience, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the more suitable choice for you. Its stepped feel can provide a satisfying typing experience without overstimulation, making it appropriate for both casual and professional use, whether you're in an office or at home. Overall, your choice should hinge on whether you prefer a more tactile and responsive feel or a balanced, versatile switch that caters to a variety of environments.
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