Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, you have two excellent options to consider. The EF Grayish stands out for its tactile feedback, medium weight, and budget-friendly price point, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear switch offers a smooth and quiet typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a favorite among users who prefer a linear switch. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preference and 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Ice King Linear both feature a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Ice King Linear differ in their top housing materials. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, offering a unique sound experience with its stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Ice King Linear opts for a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a softer and fuller sound. These contrasting top housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch, catering to different preferences based on the desired sound profile.
In terms of construction, the bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and feel when pressing down on the keys. The softer nylon bottom housing of both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Ice King Linear contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish providing a sharper and crisper sound compared to the rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear is the lighter option with an actuation force of 52 grams, while the EverFree Grayish is heavier at 59 grams. However, it is important to note that the bottom out force for the Ice King Linear is 62 grams, which is higher than the actuation force, while the bottom out force for the EverFree Grayish is unknown. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ice King Linear for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the EverFree Grayish for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, we find that the EverFree has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm compared to the Ice King Linear's 3.5mm. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it may still impact the feel and performance of the switch. The EverFree may provide a slightly quicker response time for users who prefer a shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 profile that is suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch provides a more subdued sound signature that is dampened and less intrusive. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is known for its stepped tactile feedback, providing a mild two-stage keystroke experience that is both responsive and snappy. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing feel that focuses on smoothness and effortless key presses. Each switch type offers a distinct tactile sensation that caters to different typing preferences, whether it be a preference for a more stepped, snappy feel or a smooth, frictionless glide across the keys.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for different users. While the Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile and a responsive, stepped tactile feel, the Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued sound signature and a silky, frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel, as both switches are crafted to provide a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a stellar tactile experience with a medium weight and neutral sound signature at an approachable price point, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth linear typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound profile, the Durock Ice King Linear switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and budget. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
