Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Ink Box Black offer unique experiences for users. The EF Grayish switch is a tactile option known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch is a linear option known for its smoothness, creamy feel, and distinct sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. While the EF Grayish provides a tactile typing experience, the Ink Box Black offers a linear and quiet operation. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
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 Gateron Ink Box Black, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles. The EverFree Grayish's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiff nature that allows for a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, but not overly sharp. While both materials produce distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the EverFree Grayish lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the INK blend of the Ink Box Black provides a satisfying thin sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The EverFree Grayish's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Conversely, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a relatively high-pitched sound profile that complements the top housing's characteristics. Despite both switches utilizing different bottom housing materials, they each contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch and play a role in creating a unique typing experience.
It is important to note that even though the top and bottom housings of these switches vary, they both play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both the Gateron EverFree Grayish and the Gateron Ink Box Black offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, we can see that the EverFree Grayish has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Ink Box Black's 60 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Black is heavier at 70 grams, while the EverFree Grayish's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the EverFree Grayish may be more appealing due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varied preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel when typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Ink Box Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the keyboard. Those who prefer a quicker, more responsive key press may lean towards the EverFree Grayish with its shorter travel distance, while individuals who enjoy a bit more depth in their key press may opt for the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 is known for its neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. This difference in sound profile can significantly impact the overall typing experience, especially if sound is a crucial factor for the user.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is characterized by its stepped and snappy feel, providing a unique typing experience with two stages of tactility. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a silky and polished feel, enhancing the smoothness and refinement of each keystroke. The choice between a stepped and snappy feel versus a silky and polished feel can greatly influence the comfort and satisfaction of the user during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If a user prioritizes a neutral sound signature and a stepped, snappy feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be the optimal choice. On the other hand, if a user prefers a clacky, high-pitched sound and a silky, polished feel, the Ink Box Black switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, you should opt for the EF Grayish if you prefer a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an affordable price point. This switch is a great default tactile option suitable for various purposes and skill levels. On the other hand, if you are looking for an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and budget. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what suits your typing style best.
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