Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, distinct differences become apparent. The Crystal provides a unique linear typing experience with an elastic feel and medium-light weight, offering a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the EF Grayish from Gateron's EverFree sub-brand is known for its custom molds, medium weight, neutral sound signature, and approachable price point, making it a stellar default tactile option. While the Crystal excels in providing a polished and high-pitched typing experience, the EF Grayish offers a snappy and stepped tactile feel. 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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share similar top housings, the EverFree Grayish differs with its nylon bottom housing. The nylon material of the EverFree Grayish creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Gateron EverFree Grayish absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Outemu Crystal. When typing on switches with different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material are split between the bottom-out and release sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key.
While the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron EverFree Grayish both boast top housings made of polycarbonate, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Crystal offers a consistent and clear sound profile throughout the typing experience, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish provides a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of the nylon bottom housing. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the EverFree Grayish switch, which requires 59 grams. The Crystal switch also has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, whereas the EverFree Grayish switch does not have a specified bottom out force. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Crystal switch make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the EverFree Grayish switch may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the EverFree's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the Crystal offers a slightly deeper key press experience. Gamers may appreciate the quicker response time afforded by the EverFree's shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may favor the Crystal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is subjective and can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped feel with two stages, providing a more mild tactile feedback along with snappy responsiveness. The choice between a polished linear switch and a stepped tactile switch depends on individual preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal switch provides a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished typing experience, the EF Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile with a stepped feel and snappy responsiveness. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards may be the best way to determine which one suits your preferences the most.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Crystal linear switch or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a unique, linear typing experience with medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a custom molded, medium weight tactile switch with a neutral sound signature and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch could be the better option. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, and keep in mind that both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to offer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what features are most important to you in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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