KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch that provides a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, resulting in resonant audio feedback. It is known for its bouncy typing feel due to the lengthened spring, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the EF Grayish from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand is a tactile switch crafted with custom molds. It offers a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an approachable price point, making it an excellent default tactile option. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the EF Grayish is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, depending on the typing experience one desires. 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
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches lies in their bottom housings. The Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, which is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar deep and full sound experience for users of this switch. In terms of sound profile, both switches are likely to offer a similar typing experience as a result of their shared nylon bottom housing material.
In contrast, the top housings of the Cream Yellow and the EverFree (EF) Grayish switches are both made from polycarbonate. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for each switch. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with this type of housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of both the Cream Yellow and the EverFree (EF) Grayish switches.
Overall, while the bottom housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches are the same, their polycarbonate top housings provide distinct sound profiles. The Cream Yellow and the EverFree (EF) Grayish switches are likely to offer a comparable typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing, which gives a deep and full sound profile. However, the differences in sound between the two switches can be attributed to their polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp and clear sound for the Cream Yellow and the EverFree (EF) Grayish switches, respectively.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Cream Yellow requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 58 grams to bottom out, making it a more lightweight option. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Generally, a lighter actuation force is preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while a heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and usage duration.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter spectrum of travel distances, with the Cream Yellow being just a tad bit longer. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times might favor the Cream Yellow for its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress and deeper feeling might lean towards the EverFree Grayish. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Cream Yellow linear switch stands out with its sharp and snappy "clacky" sound, providing a crisp and bright audio feedback that is quite distinct. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various preferences and environments. It is worth noting that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is praised for its bouncy typing experience, thanks to its unique combination of a shortened bottom-out distance and a lengthened spring that provides a spring-like feedback sensation. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a "stepped" tactile feel, offering a mild two-stage bump sensation that includes pre-travel and/or post-travel feedback. Additionally, the switch is noted for its snappiness, making the typing experience more responsive and engaging.
In conclusion, while the Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharp and snappy sound along with a bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch might be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile with a stepped tactile feel and a snappy response, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience, and choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement and a more stepped and snappy tactile feel, the EverFree Grayish switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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