Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and HMX Hibiscus represent two distinctly appealing options tailored to different typing preferences. The EverFree Grayish, a tactile switch, strikes a balance between feedback and smoothness, making it an excellent default choice for users who appreciate a medium weight and a neutral sound profile; it’s also attractively priced for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus, known for its linear actuation, offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience characterized by a light touch and a playful, clacky sound, making it a favorite for gamers and typists who prefer seamless keystrokes over tactile bumps. Each switch provides unique attributes to enhance user experience—whether you favor tactile feedback or buttery smoothness—helping you find the best fit for your 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Hibiscus, a clear distinction arises in their top housing materials. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which significantly influences its sound profile to be sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, providing a clear resonance that enhances the auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus employs nylon in its top housing, a material characterized by its softer quality, which absorbs sound and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This contrasting choice of materials means that while the EverFree (EF) Grayish may offer a brighter typing experience, the Hibiscus delivers a rounder, mellower tone, catering to different preferences among users.
On the other hand, when considering the bottom housing, both switches share a similar material: nylon. This familiarity leads to an interesting intersection, as the nylon bottom housing in both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Hibiscus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The characteristics of nylon help in absorbing sound, which leads to a more muted bottom-out sound. As the bottom housing often influences the overall feel when bottoming out a key—making for a softer touch—users can expect a consistent experience in this regard across both switches, despite the differences present in their top housings.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials with a shared nylon bottom housing means that users can ascertain varied auditory experiences and tactile feedback based on their typing preferences. Those who enjoy a more vibrant keystroke may find the EverFree (EF) Grayish to be more to their liking, while users who favor a richer, deeper typist sound may prefer the HMX Hibiscus. Nevertheless, both switches maintain consonance in their performance due to the nylon bottom, allowing for a consistency in feel and sound that will resonate with many typists regardless of their choice.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, which can influence typing experiences. The EverFree Grayish has a significantly heavier actuation force of 59 grams, while the Hibiscus is lighter at 42 grams. This means that the Hibiscus is more suitable for users seeking a switch that feels easier to press, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the heftier actuation force of the EverFree Grayish may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Regarding the bottom out forces, the Gateron EverFree's bottom out force remains unknown, while the Hibiscus has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is relatively light. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter switch for a more comfortable typing experience, the HMX Hibiscus would be the better option, while the EverFree Grayish caters more to users who appreciate a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it is evident that they differ slightly, with the EverFree switch having a travel distance of 3.4 mm and the Hibiscus switch at 3.5 mm. This makes the EverFree switch the shorter option, offering a slightly quicker activation that may appeal to users looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing or gaming. Thus, while both switches offer relatively similar travel experiences, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for responsiveness versus a fuller keystroke experience.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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 exhibits a neutral sound profile, making it versatile and accommodating for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Its moderate sound level means it does not dominate the atmosphere, appealing to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This distinct audio profile is likely to offer a more engaging experience during typing, providing an auditory cue that can enhance the enjoyment of each keystroke. However, the overall sound experience can still be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is known for its stepped tactile experience coupled with a snappy responsiveness. The stepped nature of the switch allows typists to feel distinct stages during the keystroke, which adds a degree of clarity as you transition through the actuation. The snappy feedback further enhances this interaction, making each press feel lively and engaging. Conversely, the feel characteristics of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch remain unspecified. While linear switches generally provide a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, the exact sensation of the Hibiscus may vary depending on its design.
In conclusion, both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and HMX Hibiscus switches offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The EF Grayish provides a balanced blend of sound and tactile response suitable for a broad audience, while the Hibiscus stands out for its smoothness and engaging sound profile. Those looking for a versatile and approachable switch may gravitate toward the EverFree, while enthusiasts seeking an exceptionality in auditory and tactile feedback might find the Hibiscus intriguing. Ultimately, your experience will depend heavily on your typing habits, the board used, and personal preferences, so it’s advisable to try them out if possible.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and intended usage. If you’re looking for a reliable and well-rounded switch, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent choice, especially for those who appreciate a neutral sound profile and a medium-weight tactile feedback. It accommodates a wide range of typing styles, making it ideal for both beginners and more experienced users who require versatility, whether at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a smoother and more responsive typing experience, the HMX Hibiscus switch will cater to your needs with its ultra-light actuation force and delightful sound signature. It excels in providing a fast, fluid feel that flourishes in gaming scenarios or when you want an engaging typing experience. Thus, consider your personal typing habits and preferences carefully to score the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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