Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features tailored to different preferences. The EF Grayish stands out for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid default tactile option. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its gentle tactile sensation, medium-high pitch for auditory feedback, and the added bonus of a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects. While both switches excel in their own right, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown are quite similar, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This translates to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The difference lies in their nylon bottom housings, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown also provides a similar effect with its nylon bottom housing.
Despite the shared polycarbonate top housing, the nylon bottom housings of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the G Pro 3.0 Brown contribute to different aspects of the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, particularly impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a similar deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a distinguishable typing experience. It is interesting to note how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings in terms of sound profile and aesthetic possibilities, the differences in their nylon bottom housings offer unique typing experiences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish's emphasis on a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nylon bottom housing contrasts with the G Pro 3.0 Brown's similar effect. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is considered medium. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is heavier due to its higher bottom out force. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Brown for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this comparison, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance, making it more suitable for users who prefer a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish with its shorter travel distance may be more favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Brown 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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists, and can be used in various settings. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides a medium-high pitch sound that adds a satisfying auditory feedback to your typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing sensation, with the G Pro Brown delivering a slightly more pronounced sound compared to the EF Grayish.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a stepped and snappy tactile sensation. The two-stage feel of the switch provides a unique typing experience, making each keystroke more engaging and responsive. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is known for its easy-to-press and mild tactile feedback. The light actuation force required for the G Pro Brown switch ensures a comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches offer different tactile characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, with the EF Grayish providing a more dynamic feel compared to the gentle and effortless feel of the G Pro Brown.
Overall, the EverFree (EF) Grayish and G Pro 3.0 Brown switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EF Grayish provides a neutral sound profile and a snappy tactile sensation, the G Pro Brown offers a medium-high pitch sound and an easy-to-press tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, you can choose between the two switches to customize your mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches are reliable options that deliver a satisfying typing experience for any user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an approachable price point, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that won't interrupt your typing flow, along with a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and benefits that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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