Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish are both popular tactile mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique benefits for different types of users. The V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, smoothness, and tactile sensation, making it ideal for those who enjoy lively feedback and a creamy feel. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switches are lauded for their medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price, making them a great default tactile option for many. 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
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound that is especially ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the EverFree (EF) Grayish shares this quality with its own nylon bottom housing. Both switches offer a balanced combination of housing materials to enhance the typing experience.
Despite their similar use of polycarbonate in the top housing, the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish differ in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that deliver a crisp and clear sound, their choice of bottom housing material - nylon - affects the depth and resonance of the typing experience. These differences, along with the impact of housing materials on key press and release sounds, highlight the importance of understanding the composition of switches when selecting one for a personalized typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish at 59 grams, making the V3 Cream Blue Pro better suited for those looking for a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams while the EverFree (EF) Grayish force is unknown. This means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a slightly heavier typing experience when fully pressed. For those who prefer a medium-light actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the better choice. on the other hand, those who prefer a heavier actuation force may find the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish more to their liking.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish being slightly longer than the V3 Cream Blue Pro. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is particularly appealing for users who enjoy a lively, audible feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral sound signature that is suitable for most users, whether beginners or advanced, at home or at work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its accented and bouncy tactile feedback, giving users a tactile sensation that is not overwhelming yet not subtle. The switch is also described as snappy and polished, offering smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped tactile feel with two stages of feedback. It is also described as snappy, providing a responsive typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a lively and distinct sound profile paired with a smooth and tactile sensation, the EverFree Grayish switch offers a more neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth and creamy tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a custom-molded switch with a neutral sound signature, moderate actuation force requirement, and an approachable price point, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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