Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Keygeek Keylin stand out as two appealing options, each with its own unique characteristics. The EverFree (EF) Grayish is celebrated for its tactile feedback, featuring a medium weight and a neutral sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists seeking a balance between responsiveness and comfort at an approachable price point. In contrast, the Keylin excels as a linear switch, renowned for delivering a premium typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics. While the EverFree caters to those who appreciate a tactile response with a defined actuation point, the Keylin entices users looking for a seamless and quieter keystroke experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Keygeek Keylin switches showcase a notable divergence in their top housing materials, which significantly impacts their acoustic profiles. The EverFree features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its stiffness and translucency, making it ideal for crisp sound production. This material is designed to create a sharper, high-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly, especially when paired with RGB lighting, enhancing the switch's aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Keylin utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its softer characteristics, which absorb sound and yield a deeper, fuller output. This difference in materials results in the EverFree's sharper auditory experience compared to the Keylin's more subdued sound.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, it is interesting to note that they both utilize nylon, placing them on common ground in terms of material choice. The nylon bottom housing in the EverFree, similar to that in the Keylin, contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile, as nylon absorbs sound more than harder plastics. This means that regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, both switches will share a similar acoustic experience due to the nylon at the bottom. In this case, the bottom housing will have a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is activated, while the nylon material harmonizes their responses.
Considering the overall performance, the contrasting top housings mean that users seeking distinctly different auditory sensations might prefer one model over the other. The EverFree's polycarbonate will appeal to those who enjoy sharp, clear sounds, particularly in competitive gaming scenarios where auditory cues are crucial. Meanwhile, the Keylin's nylon top housing could attract those who favor a deeper, rounded sound profile, ideal for typing enthusiasts desiring a more mellow experience. Despite the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing, which creates common acoustic traits, the choice between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding top housing characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces, which directly impacts typing experience. The EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch features an actuation force of 59 grams, making it the heavier option, while the Keygen Keylin linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams. This means that those looking for a lighter feel for extended typing sessions would benefit from the Keylin switch, as it requires less effort to actuate. However, the bottom out force of the EverFree switch remains unknown, making it difficult to determine how the two compare in that aspect. The Keylin switch has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which means it provides a lighter overall experience as well, suitable for users who prefer less strain on their fingers. In summary, the EverFree switch offers a heavier actuation experience, while the Keylin is decidedly lighter, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, we find distinct differences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Keylin features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Keylin switch allows for a more pronounced key press, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the EverFree Grayish caters to users who prioritize responsiveness, making it a suitable choice for gamers who prefer quicker actuation without the feel of an overly deep press. Consequently, if you seek a more responsive key press, the EverFree would be the better option, whereas the Keylin would appeal to those who favor a more substantial depth in their 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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 quality, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches feature a neutral sound profile that is versatile, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced users in various environments—be it at home or the office. Their moderate actuation force requirement combines with this neutral signature to create a balanced acoustic experience that won't disturb others nearby. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch's auditory characteristics remain unspecified; however, it's worth noting that linear switches typically offer a quieter operation compared to tactile or clicky switches, which may contribute to a more subdued sound environment. Thus, while the EF Grayish provides a clear sonic identity, the Keylin's sound remains a potentially smoother, quieter option yet unverified.
In terms of tactile feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switches are characterized as having a stepped tactile response, which entails a more gradual and deliberate tactile feedback during keypresses. This feeling is complemented by a snappy quality that makes them incredibly responsive—thanks to the design that often incorporates longer or dual-staged springs. Such a feature gives these switches a dynamic typing experience that can feel engaging and lively, making them ideal for users who appreciate a responsive tactile sensation. The Keygeek Keylin's tactile feedback is not explicitly described, but linear switches, by design, typically lack any tactile bump, leading to a smoother keystroke devoid of the stepped feedback present in the EverFree switches.
Overall, if you're looking for a switch that offers a balanced acoustic profile and an engaging tactile experience, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent choice. Its medium weight and approachable feel make it an appealing option for a range of users, while its neutral sound profile keeps things versatile. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switch may appeal to those who prioritize smoothness in their typing experience and prefer a quieter operation. Both switches can deliver satisfying results but cater to different styles of typing preference. If you are drawn to a tactile experience with a bit of feedback, the EF Grayish would be the way to go. If smoothness is your priority, the Keylin could provide an enjoyable alternative, even if detailed characteristics remain unknown.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, your preferences and typing style will greatly influence your decision. If you enjoy a tactile feedback experience with a moderate sound profile that balances well for both casual and professional settings, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent choice. Its stepped tactile design and snappy responsiveness make it suitable for typists looking for an engaging experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, if you're seeking smooth linear action for gaming or fluid typing, the Keylin linear switch, with its light bottom-out force and premium feel, may be more to your liking. Its focus on smoothness and rich acoustics offers a different kind of satisfaction, ideal for those who value a more uninterrupted keystroke. In essence, select the EverFree for versatility and tactile feedback or the Keylin for smooth, linear performance; each switch caters to distinct preferences and use cases.
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