Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Gateron Glory Red switches present two appealing yet distinct options tailored for different user preferences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish is a tactile switch that shines as a versatile choice for typists and gamers alike, offering a satisfying medium weight, a neutral sound signature, and an approachable price point. Its unique design, categorized as 'Neutral,' 'Stepped,' and 'Snappy,' gives users a pronounced sense of tactile feedback without being overly noisy. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red, characterized by its lighter actuation force, boasts a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience that many users appreciate for both typing and gaming. The pleasant travel distance makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer speed and fluidity over tactile feedback. Whether you're powered by the gratifying bounce of a tactile switch or the swift, linear feel of a smooth actuation, each has its merits. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Glory Red switches, one notable difference lies in the top housing. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This characteristic makes the switch produce a crisper auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience, especially in setups that utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for improved light diffusion. In contrast, the Glory Red is equipped with a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon tends to absorb sound, resulting in a mellower and rounder auditory experience. Thus, the choice of top housing between these two switches directly affects the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced while typing.
The bottom housing of both switches, however, is made from nylon, which ensures a consistent auditory experience at the bottom-out point. Nylon is a classic switch housing material, valued for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to its sound-absorbing properties. Because both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Glory Red incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, users will find the bottoming-out sound from both switches to be similar. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish’s top housing lends itself to a different character of sound, the muted resonance provided by the nylon bottom helps maintain a level of auditory consistency between the two switches during the key press.
In summary, the combination of different top housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles for the two switches. The EverFree (EF) Grayish, with its polycarbonate top housing, produces a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Glory Red’s nylon top housing results in a rounder and less piercing auditory feedback. However, the commonality in the nylon bottom housing of both switches means that while users can expect differing experiences when typing, they will encounter similar outcomes in the key bottom-out sound. This synergy between the top and bottom housings illustrates how the materials used in keyboard switches can work together to influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, the EverFree does require a heavier actuation force of 59 grams, compared to the lighter 45 grams needed for the Glory Red. This difference means that the EverFree switch may provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users prefer, particularly those who enjoy a stronger push feel. However, the bottom out forces for both switches remain unknown, making a direct comparison in that regard impossible. As a result, while both have unique characteristics, users looking for a lighter switch will find the Glory Red more suitable, whereas those seeking a heavier switch with a pronounced tactile response might lean towards the EverFree.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, we see a slight difference: the EverFree Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Glory Red measures 3.6 mm. This means that the EverFree switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may provide a more responsive keystroke ideal for gamers who appreciate quick reactions. On the other hand, the Glory Red, with its longer 3.6 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and deeper key presses. Overall, if you're looking for speed and responsiveness, the EverFree Grayish could be the better choice, whereas the Glory Red would suit those seeking a hearty depth in their keystrokes.
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 Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 delivers a neutral sound profile, which strikes a balance that makes it versatile for various environments. This moderate sound allows it to accommodate both novice and seasoned typists alike, whether they're working from home or in an office setting. Conversely, the sound characteristics of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch remain unspecified, but it is important to note that sound can vary significantly depending on other factors like the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
In the realm of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its stepped and snappy tactile response. The stepped design provides a two-stage sensation, allowing typists to experience distinct points during the keypress that can enhance the typing experience, while the snappy nature of the switch ensures immediate feedback with each stroke, making it feel lively and engaging. The characteristics of the Glory Red switch are not provided, leaving a gap in direct comparison; however, linear switches typically offer a smoother and uninterrupted travel without the tactile feedback that the EF Grayish provides.
In summary, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound and a tactile feel that combines a stepped, snappy response for a dynamic typing experience, making it suitable for various settings. The Gateron Glory Red linear switch, while lacking specific details about its sound and feel characteristics, is known for its smooth keystroke, which could appeal to those who prefer a more fluid typing sensation. Ultimately, you may find that the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference for tactile feedback versus linear smoothness, as they cater to different typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re someone who enjoys a balanced tactile feel and is looking for a switch that performs well across different environments—be it at home or in the office—the EF Grayish is an excellent choice. Its medium weight, neutral sound profile, and responsive snappy feel make it versatile enough to accommodate various typing tasks, from casual typing to gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke experience, the Glory Red switch is designed for you. Its lighter feel and straightforward travel distance can enhance your typing speed and fluidity, making it particularly appealing for gamers or those who type quickly and favor linear feedback without tactile resistance. In essence, consider the EverFree Grayish if you value a tactile response combined with versatility, while the Glory Red should be your go-to if you're after a smooth and effortless typing experience.
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