Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, both have their own unique offerings that cater to different preferences and needs. The EF Grayish stands out for its medium weight, neutral sound, and affordable price, making it a solid choice for those looking for a reliable tactile switch. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy is praised for its smooth typing experience and comfortable weight, making it an excellent option for professional settings where a quiet and fatigue-free typing experience is essential. 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
59g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko Fairy both feature different housing materials that contribute to varying sound profiles. The EF Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Fairy's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. While both switches offer unique sound characteristics, the EF Grayish's polycarbonate top housing is likely to provide a more distinct and clear sound quality compared to the Fairy's nylon top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the EF Grayish and the Fairy use nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housings, the EF Grayish's overall sound profile may be influenced more by its polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper and crisper sound contrasted with the Fairy's duller and fuller sound from its nylon top housing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko Fairy play a crucial role in their sound profiles. The EF Grayish's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique balance of sharpness and depth in the sound produced by the switch. In contrast, the Fairy's use of nylon for both top and bottom housings results in a consistently deeper and fuller sound. While both switches offer distinct sound characteristics based on their housing materials, the EF Grayish may deliver a clearer and more resonant sound due to the presence of polycarbonate in its top housing, offering a different auditory experience compared to the Fairy's nylon housing.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Akko Fairy linear switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Fairy switch is heavier at 60 grams while the EverFree Grayish's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Fairy switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others might appreciate the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing feel due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users with different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual typing style and preference for key press weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, it is evident that the Fairy has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the EverFree's 3.4 mm. While both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, the slight variation could result in a slightly different typing experience for users. The Fairy's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, particularly gamers, while the EverFree's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
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 Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and whether they are using the keyboard at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch provides a muted sound that is ideal for creating a quieter workspace, thanks to its factory-applied lubrication. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile options for various typing tasks. Ultimately, while the sound may vary slightly between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and user experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is known for its stepped tactile feedback, providing users with a two-stage sensation that feels more mild compared to hyper-tactile switches. Additionally, these switches are described as snappy, offering a responsive typing experience that can make typing feel more dynamic. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished and mild feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. The Fairy switch also provides a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. While the feel of these switches may differ slightly, users can expect a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with both options.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing needs. The EF Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switch offers a muted sound and a polished, mild feel that is well-suited for office environments and extended typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium weight and moderate typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and performance, making them excellent choices for users looking for reliable and enjoyable mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, consider the specific needs of your typing experience. If you value a neutral sound profile, an affordable price point, and a tactile switch with a medium weight that offers responsiveness and a unique typing feel, the EF Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, factory-applied lubrication, and a balanced weight that is conducive to extended use in office settings, the Akko Fairy linear switch could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to assess what factors are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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