Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Jerrzi Honey Bean
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, a linear switch. The EverFree (EF) Grayish is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it an ideal default tactile option for many users. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Honey Bean offers a light and linear action with silent operation, making it a perfect choice for office or shared environments where noise reduction is key. While these general characteristics provide a good starting point for decision-making, further exploration is needed to determine the best switch for your specific needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, one notable difference is the top housing material. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Honey Bean utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, polycarbonate is known for its translucency and ability to enhance RGB lighting, making it a popular choice among users looking for a visually appealing switch.
Another point of contrast between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Honey Bean's POM bottom housing also offers a deep sound profile but with a more muted tone. Both materials absorb sound differently, with nylon creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM's unique sound characteristics.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience. While the sound profiles may vary due to the different housing materials used, the overall feel and performance of the switches are likely to be similar. The impact of the housing materials on the sound when pressing down on a key versus releasing it will also differ, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when letting go of a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, it is clear that the Honey Bean is lighter in both aspects. The Honey Bean has an actuation force of 42 grams, compared to the EverFree Grayish's 59 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Honey Bean would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish would provide a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Honey Bean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish. The EverFree Grayish's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Honey Bean's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for 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 Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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 a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch provides a muted sound experience, ideal for those looking to minimize noise in shared spaces. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of sound while typing. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard design and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is characterized as stepped and snappy, offering a tactile feedback that feels more subdued compared to hyper-tactile switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of keypress feel, with the EverFree Grayish offering a more responsive feedback compared to the gentle and low-impact typing experience provided by the Honey Bean.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Jerrzi Honey Bean switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EverFree Grayish switch provides a neutral sound and snappy tactile feedback, the Honey Bean switch offers a muted sound and a feathery keypress experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience. Both switches are designed to cater to different needs, so users can expect a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, you should go for the EverFree Grayish if you are looking for a medium-weight tactile option with a neutral sound signature at a reasonable price point. On the other hand, opt for the Honey Bean if you prefer a light and linear switch that provides a silent typing experience ideal for quiet environments like the office. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for a tactile or linear feel and noise level, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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