Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stand out for different reasons. The EF Grayish is lauded for its tactile feedback, medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price, making it a solid choice for those seeking a default tactile option. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a linear experience with a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to users looking for a more substantial typing feel. The auditory experience of the G Pro 3.0 is characterized by a medium-high pitch, and its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black feature unique housing materials that play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Black opts for a proprietary INK blend that results in a pointed and satisfying clacky sound. While the polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish is ideal for those who value a clear and resonant sound with RGB lighting, the INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the EverFree (EF) Grayish employs a nylon bottom housing that produces a deep and full sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that creates a unique and pleasingly deep sound that is more muted compared to nylon. The use of different bottom housing materials allows for a variety of sound profiles to cater to different preferences. While nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound in the EverFree (EF) Grayish, POM provides a deeper and muted sound in the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black contribute to distinct sound profiles that cater to various preferences. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a clear and resonant sound with a deeper tone, while the proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing in the G Pro 3.0 Black provide a slightly higher-pitched clacky sound with a more muted tone. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the 59 grams of the EverFree Grayish. However, in terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier at 70 grams, while the EverFree Grayish force remains unknown. The EverFree Grayish is ideal for those who prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's 4 mm travel distance. This means that the EF Grayish provides a quicker and more responsive typing or gaming experience, favored by those looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly deeper key press, which may suit those who prefer a more pronounced tactility in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel. However, it is important to note that both switches offer quality performance in their respective travel distances.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, yet also subdued, providing a more subtle auditory experience. The choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for sound, with the EverFree Grayish offering a more versatile option compared to the distinct clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is characterized by its stepped feel, providing a more moderate tactile response with two stages in the keystroke. It is also described as snappy, offering a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy and silky feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black is described as subtle, providing a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. Depending on the user's preference for tactility and typing experience, the choice between the two switches would vary.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree Grayish provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky yet subdued sound and a creamy, silky, and subtle feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for sound, tactility, and typing experience. Users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches, but the choice would come down to personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an approachable price point, the EF Grayish switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom-out force, a clacky sound profile, and a more premium feel with creamy, silky, and subtle characteristics, then the G Pro 3.0 Black switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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