Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch to the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and budget-friendly price point, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink is favored for its smoothness, lighter typing feel, and higher-pitched clack, providing a different typing sensation for those who prefer linear switches. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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 terms of housing materials, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the EverFree Grayish allows for a more resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both housing materials deliver distinct sound profiles, the EverFree Grayish leans towards a clearer and sharper tone, while the Ink Box Pink provides a slightly milder and pointier sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the EverFree Grayish features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which is characterized by a relatively high-pitched and satisfying clacky sound. Despite the differences in material, both nylon and the INK blend offer unique qualities to the switches. While nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller tone, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink contributes to the overall clacky feel of the switch.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes evident that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the EverFree Grayish and the Ink Box Pink have distinct housing materials for both the top and bottom, they each provide a unique typing experience. The EverFree Grayish excels in delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Ink Box Pink offers a slightly softer yet satisfying clacky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The EverFree Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Ink Box Pink's 50 grams. However, the EverFree Grayish has an unknown bottom out force while the Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Ink Box Pink requires a slightly lighter touch to activate a keystroke but provides a more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Ink Box Pink may be the better option. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the EverFree Grayish, assuming the bottom out force is suitable. 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, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this comparison, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly longer travel distance than the EverFree Grayish switch. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree Grayish may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, whereas the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Pink may offer a more substantial keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their slight difference in travel distance, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of responsiveness and 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 Gateron Ink Box Pink 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 Pink 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
When it comes to 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 Gateron Ink Box Pink switch produces a higher-pitched clack, giving it a crisp and distinct sound when pressed. Both switches can provide satisfying auditory feedback, but the choice between them will ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall sound profile you are looking for in your keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped tactile experience, providing a subtle two-stage typing sensation. This switch also has a snappy and responsive feel, making typing a dynamic and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch offers a silky and polished typing feel, boasting exceptional smoothness and reduced friction during keypresses. Both switches offer unique tactile responses, so the decision between them will depend on the specific typing experience you prefer.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch each have their own strengths when it comes to sound and feel. If you are looking for a more neutral sound and a snappy tactile feedback, the EF Grayish switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher-pitched clack sound and a silky smooth typing experience, the Ink Box Pink switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and it will be up to you to decide which qualities are most important for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and medium weight, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. Consider these factors carefully when choosing the switch that best suits your needs for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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