Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Crystal Violet and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both stand out as tactile options worth considering. The Crystal Violet offers a light operating force of 45g, providing a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience that is ideal for those seeking a gentle and comfortable feel. Its mellow, lower-pitched sound profile adds to its appeal, creating a subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch by Gateron offers a medium weight with a neutral sound signature at an approachable price point, making it a stellar default tactile option. While both switches offer a stepped tactile feel, the Crystal Violet leans towards a creamy and mild typing experience, whereas the EF Grayish is noted for its snappy response. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
ABS
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, we can see clear differences in their construction. The Crystal Violet utilizes ABS for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a low-pitched sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences when using the switches, with the Crystal Violet offering a more muted sound compared to the crisper tones produced by the EF Grayish.
Furthermore, the choice of materials for the bottom housing also sets these two switches apart. The Crystal Violet uses ABS for the bottom housing, contributing to its low-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This difference in materials affects the overall sound experience of the switches, with the Crystal Violet offering a smoother sound compared to the more resonant tones produced by the EF Grayish.
While the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish feature different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The ABS and polycarbonate top housings of the Crystal Violet and EF Grayish, respectively, each contribute to the switches' overall sound when typing and releasing keys. Similarly, the ABS and nylon bottom housings of the switches impact the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Crystal Violet offering a more subdued experience compared to the more robust tones of the EF Grayish. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal Violet is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Crystal Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in terms of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. Despite the differences in weight, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, with the Crystal Violet providing a lighter feel and the EverFree (EF) Grayish offering a potentially heavier push for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal Violet switch. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Crystal Violet may provide a more substantial and deeper pressing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 it comes to sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet switches offer a low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches also exhibit a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Crystal Violet leaning towards a lower-pitched spectrum while the EF Grayish provides a more neutral sound signature.
Moving on to feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet switches are described as creamy and mild, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience with a stepped tactile feel. This provides users with a silky sensation and a comfortable typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches also feature a stepped feel, providing a more mild tactile experience along with a snappy response, making typing feel more alive and responsive. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their unique tactile feels, catering to users looking for different levels of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Violet leans towards a low-pitched sound profile with a creamy and mild tactile feel, the EF Grayish provides a more neutral sound signature with a stepped and snappy tactile response. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience that caters to different user needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience overall. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and tactile feel from both switches, with slight variations to suit individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a relaxed and gentle tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile, the Everglide Crystal Violet is the way to go. The 45g operating force and creamy, mild feel make it a great choice for those seeking a smooth and buttery typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a default tactile option with a medium weight and neutral sound signature, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is an excellent option. With its stepped feel and snappy response, it offers a more lively typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Crystal Violet and the EF Grayish will depend on your preferences for operating force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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