Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Gold Brown Pro mechanical keyboard switches, we can see that both offer tactile feedback but cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish is a solid default tactile option with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an affordable price point, making it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro from TTC provides a more subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience that allows them to fully immerse in their tasks without any distraction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Similarly, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
Despite both switches sharing polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, the difference in their top and bottom housings can influence the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound produced when releasing a key. This difference highlights how the placement of various housing materials can alter the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and TTC Gold Brown Pro showcase the significance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While they both utilize polycarbonate and nylon in their top and bottom housings, respectively, the placement of these materials can create distinct typing experiences. Understanding how each material contributes to the sound profile and tactile feedback can help users choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Brown Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 59 grams of the EverFree Grayish. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is difficult to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro would be the better choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the EverFree Grayish would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The EverFree Grayish will provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and typing 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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and typing preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched sound that provides a rich and satisfying typing experience without being overly loud. Both switches cater to different sound preferences, with the EverFree Grayish being more versatile and the Gold Brown Pro offering a deeper and more subdued typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped tactile experience with a snappy response, offering a tactile bump that is noticeable but not overwhelming. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with subtle tactile feedback. The Gold Brown Pro switch is also characterized as mild and subtle, providing a gentle typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. While the EverFree Grayish switch offers a more pronounced tactile experience, the Gold Brown Pro switch provides a smoother and more understated typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and environments. The EverFree Grayish switch is a solid default tactile option with a moderate sound profile and snappy tactile feedback, while the Gold Brown Pro switch provides a thocky, low-pitched sound with a polished and silky typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-weight switch with a neutral sound profile and an affordable price point, the EF Grayish may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you value subtle tactile feedback, a subdued sound profile, and a switch that allows you to focus on your tasks with minimal distraction, the Gold Brown Pro could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a moderate, versatile typing experience or a gentle, immersive one. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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