Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch offer distinct features to consider. The EF Grayish from Gateron's EverFree sub-brand stands out for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a popular choice for those looking for a reliable tactile option. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, coupled with a deep and pleasing sound profile. While the EF Grayish is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Snappy', the Honey switch is described as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but to truly determine the best fit for your typing style and preferences, a more in-depth look into their specific characteristics is necessary. 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
50g
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
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Honey both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed with RGB lighting. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish also has a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout the switch.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its nylon bottom housing, providing a contrasting deeper sound profile compared to the Honey's consistent sharpness. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, enhancing the sharp and crisp sound profile throughout the switch. This difference in bottom housing material influences the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Honey comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the contrasting bottom housing materials - nylon for the EverFree (EF) Grayish and polycarbonate for the Honey - offer distinct sound profiles. The EverFree (EF) Grayish's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is clear that the Honey switch is lighter overall. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has an actuation force of 59 grams, which is heavier than the Honey's 42 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Honey is 50 grams, while the EverFree's bottom-out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the TTC Honey linear switch may be the better option due to its lower actuation force, making it easier to type for extended periods. Conversely, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch may appeal to those who desire a more substantive typing experience with a higher actuation force. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm. This makes the Honey switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the EverFree switch. The difference may not be significant to some users, but for those who are sensitive to slight variations in travel distance, it could impact their typing experience. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred for quick and responsive typing, such as for gaming, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and response time.
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 Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch provides a subdued sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience compared to many other switches. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further enhanced or subdued depending on the keyboard and keycaps used alongside them.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a stepped and snappy tactile feel, providing a distinct tactile feedback with a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance and a refined finish. While both switches excel in delivering a comfortable typing experience, the EverFree Grayish switch focuses more on tactile feedback, while the Honey switch prioritizes smoothness and fluidity.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and TTC Honey linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree Grayish switch provides a neutral sound signature with a stepped and snappy tactile feel, making it a versatile option for different preferences. On the other hand, the Honey switch offers a subdued sound profile with a creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished feel, prioritizing smoothness and fluidity in the typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer tactile feedback or smoothness in your switches, both options provide excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and approachable price point, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a smooth and creamy feel, deep sound profile, and effortless typing experience, the TTC Honey would be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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