Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Ink Yellow stand out as compelling options with unique characteristics. The EF Grayish, a tactile switch, is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid choice for those seeking a default tactile option. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow, a linear switch, offers a shorter travel distance and a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, the Ink Yellow provides a different tactile feel compared to the EF Grayish. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Ink Yellow, one key difference is in their top housing composition. The EF Grayish utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its top housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the EF Grayish leans towards a clearer and more resonant sound, while the INK blend of the Ink Yellow provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the EF Grayish incorporates nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend is also utilized in its bottom housing, offering a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. Though both switches utilize different materials for their bottom housing, they both aim to provide a unique sound experience for users, with the EF Grayish offering a deeper sound and the Ink Yellow providing a thin and high-pitched sound.
In terms of how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between the EF Grayish and the Ink Yellow will ultimately depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate of the EF Grayish for a clearer and resonant sound, or the unique INK blend of the Ink Yellow for a clacky and high-pitched sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is slightly lighter than the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch in terms of actuation force, with 59 grams compared to 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Grayish switch has an unknown force, while the Ink Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Grayish switch may offer a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Ink Yellow switch, which may provide a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time or a heavier push feel for a more pronounced typing experience. In general, lighter switches are preferable for long typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches may be favored by those who prefer a more solid and satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The EverFree Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Ink Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience. If you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the EverFree Grayish may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly deeper key press, the Ink Yellow with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect comparable results from either option.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of uses. The Ink Yellow also has a clacky sound, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as providing a stepped and snappy typing experience. The stepped design offers a two-stage tactile feedback, while the snappy feel indicates a highly responsive switch. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow linear switch offers a mild typing experience with polished characteristics. This means that the switch provides a gentle and smooth keystroke, thanks to a refined finish or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek key travel.
Taking into consideration the available information, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a responsive feel, the EverFree Grayish might be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if you desire a switch with a neutral sound profile and a smooth, polished typing experience, the Ink Yellow could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in sound and feel, as well as your intended use case for the keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force and a medium weight, neutral sound profile, and approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of 67 grams, a shorter travel distance, smooth feel, and clacky sound, the Ink Yellow could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you during long typing sessions.
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