Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Zuoce Lavender as popular options to consider. The EF Grayish is a tactile switch loved for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender stands out for its smoothness and crisp, clacky sound, providing a satisfying keystroke sensation right from the start. While the EF Grayish offers a neutral, stepped, snappy feel, the Lavender is known for being easy to press and clacky. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but as always, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific traits to determine which one suits your typing style best. So, 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Its translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender features a POM top housing, offering a deep and muted sound profile. While the EverFree Grayish's polycarbonate top housing delivers a clear and resonant sound, the Lavender's POM top housing emphasizes a pleasing and unique sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the EverFree Grayish employs a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Lavender's POM bottom housing also contributes to the deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a similar sound experience to the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree Grayish. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with their respective housing materials influencing the sound and feel of the keystrokes.
While the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Zuoce Lavender feature different housing materials, each material plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the nuances of the chosen material. Whether opting for the polycarbonate and nylon combination of the EverFree Grayish or the POM housing of the Lavender, both switches offer a distinct typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch reveals some differences in weight. The EverFree Grayish requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the 48 grams needed for the Lavender switch. However, the Lavender switch has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the bottom out force for the EverFree Grayish switch is unknown. In terms of weight preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lavender switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the EverFree Grayish for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will experience consistent key presses in terms of how far down the key travels. Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Zuoce Lavender switches offer a comparable typing experience when it comes to travel distance.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender switch produces a crisp and clacky sound that adds a satisfying percussive element to each keystroke. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped tactile experience, offering a subtle two-stage sensation that is complemented by a snappy responsiveness. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch offers an easy-to-press linear feel, with gentle resistance and light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile tactile switch with a moderate sound profile and responsive feel. Meanwhile, the Zuoce Lavender switch stands out for its smoothness and distinctive clacky sound, providing a unique typing experience that emphasizes comfort and ease of use. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a reliable and versatile tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and medium weight, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great choice for you. Its stepped and snappy feel offers a unique typing experience that is both responsive and enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and easy-to-press linear switch with a clacky sound profile, the Zuoce Lavender would be the ideal option. With its light actuation force and crisp keystrokes, the Lavender switch provides a satisfying typing experience that can enhance your overall productivity. Ultimately, the decision between the EF Grayish and Lavender switches will come down to your personal preference for feel and sound, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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