Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) grayish and the KTT hyacinth present themselves as intriguing options to explore. The EF grayish switch, known for its tactile response, medium weight, neutral sound, and affordable price point, is a stellar choice for those seeking a reliable tactile option. On the other hand, the KTT hyacinth offers a unique linear experience with its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort through its single-stage elongated spring design. While the EF grayish is characterized as neutral, stepped, snappy, the hyacinth falls under neutral, silky, subtle, showcasing different strengths in their tactile approaches. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Hyacinth feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is also especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. However, despite both switches having the same material for their top housing, they may still vary slightly in sound due to other factors such as stem design or overall switch construction.
On the other hand, both switches also feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing of a switch may have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing can also influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Hyacinth may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel, despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, such as polycarbonate's sharper sound profile and nylon's deeper sound profile, the overall typing experience will also be influenced by other factors like stem design and switch construction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams compared to the EverFree Grayish's 59 grams. The bottom out force is medium-light for the Hyacinth at 56 grams, while the EverFree Grayish does not specify a bottom out force. The differences between the two switches lie in the actuation and bottom out forces, with the Hyacinth being lighter overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the EverFree Grayish may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 slightly shorter than the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, it may be noticeable for individuals who are particularly sensitive to keypress depth. Gamers looking for a faster response time may favor the EverFree Grayish switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress depth may gravitate towards the Hyacinth switch. Overall, both switches offer a balance between travel distance and responsiveness, providing a satisfying typing or gaming experience based on personal preference.
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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various settings and preferences. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so it is important to take those into consideration when making a decision.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a stepped and snappy feel, providing a tactile experience with distinct stages in the keystroke and a responsive feel. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switch offers a silky and subtle feel, focusing on smoothness and gentle resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, albeit through different tactile approaches.
In conclusion, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch and the KTT Hyacinth switch offer different tactile experiences in terms of feel, they both provide a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences regarding the tactile feedback and smoothness desired in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches are designed to cater to a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced users, seeking a balance between tactility, sound, and comfort in their typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-weight switch with a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, then the EverFree (EF) Grayish might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a unique 3.5mm travel distance, and a silky, subtle feel, then the KTT Hyacinth linear switch could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing habits and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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