Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing style and preferences, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Gravel offer distinct experiences that cater to different users. The EF Grayish, a tactile switch, is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and approachable price point, making it an excellent default choice for those who enjoy a tactile bump without being overwhelmed by noise. Its design characteristics—categorized as neutral, stepped, and snappy—provide a satisfying feedback that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel, a linear switch, emphasizes a smooth and refined typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts who prefer effortless keystrokes devoid of tactile resistance. While the EF Grayish enhances typographical precision with its tactile bump, the Gravel delivers a fluidity that many gamers and typists find appealing for rapid input. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Gravel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which means they will produce similar auditory characteristics when used in a keyboard. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This shared material in the top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the switches, allowing users to enjoy a lively typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to the light's ability to pass through the clear housing. The common attribute of using polycarbonate means that both switches will exhibit a pronounced sound profile on key release, aligning their performance when it comes to sound.
In contrast, both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Gravel utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon, recognized as a classic material for switch housing, produces deeper and fuller sound profiles. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, contributing to a duller and rounder auditory result compared to the sharper tones produced by polycarbonate. Consequently, both switches will share this characteristic, feeling more impactful with a pronounced sound when bottoming out. The nylon's ability to dampen the sound means that when users depress the keys, they will experience a smoother auditory transition, providing a contrasting experience to the polycarbonate's effect during key release.
Ultimately, while the top housing of both switches shares the polycarbonate material, resulting in similar sharpness and clarity when releasing keys, the bottom housing made of nylon contributes to a more subdued and rounded sound profile at the point of bottoming out. This division between the characteristics of the two materials allows for a unique balance in sound experience; the EverFree (EF) Grayish and HMX Gravel both showcase distinct auditory traits in different aspects of the keystroke. Users can thus enjoy a typing experience that offers the best of both worlds—a lively release with the polycarbonate top and a rich bottoming sound with the nylon bottom—creating an overall engaging mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, notable differences in actuation force favor distinct typing preferences. The EverFree Grayish has an actuation force of 59 grams, which gives it a heavier feel ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gravel switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it conducive for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to press. While the bottom out force for the EverFree switch remains unknown, the Gravel's bottom out force is measured at 50 grams, confirming it is also lighter in this regard. Consequently, if you're looking for a lighter switch that eases long use, the HMX Gravel would be the better choice, while the Gateron EverFree Grayish caters to those who enjoy a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, we find that the EverFree has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gravel measures 3.5 mm. This makes the EverFree the shorter option and the Gravel the longer one. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the EverFree may provide a more responsive feel. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper sensation while typing may favor the Gravel due to its slightly longer travel distance. This distinction highlights how each switch caters to different user preferences, with the EverFree offering a snappier experience and the Gravel presenting a more pronounced tactile journey.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 is characterized by its neutral sound signature, which provides a moderate audio profile that is suitable for various environments. This quality ensures that whether you're typing in a quiet office or comfortable home setting, the sound will not be overly distracting to you or those around you. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switch does not have a specified sound profile in the provided information; thus, its auditory characteristics remain unknown. However, it's important to note that sound can also vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a tactile experience that features a stepped response, allowing for a perceived two-stage keystroke. This design, combined with a snappy actuation, results in a typing experience that feels responsive and lively, giving you feedback that is both satisfying and clear. In contrast, there is no information available regarding the feel of the HMX Gravel switch, leaving its tactile qualities a mystery. However, both switches have been mentioned to possess medium to medium-light actuation forces, which implies that their overall typing experiences may yield some similarities in smoothness and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch presents itself as an excellent choice for those looking for a balanced tactile experience with a neutral sound, making it versatile for various uses. While the specific auditory quality of the HMX Gravel switch remains undefined, its reputation for smoothness suggests it could be a great option for those who prefer a linear switch. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences—tactile versus linear—their thoughtful designs and intended use cases mean that you can expect enjoyable typing experiences from either, depending on your unique needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a tactile feel with a snappy response, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent option for you. Its stepped tactile nature makes it versatile for both casual and professional typing, providing a satisfying feedback that can enhance your typing accuracy. This switch also features a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether you're working from home or in a shared office. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, the HMX Gravel switch would be more to your liking. With its medium-light actuation force, it allows for quick and responsive keystrokes, making it ideal for those who type swiftly or enjoy gaming. In summary, choose the EverFree (EF) Grayish for its tactile feedback and versatility, while the Gravel will serve you well if you seek smoothness and a lighter touch.
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