Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile both stand out as excellent options in the tactile switch category. The EF Grayish is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid default choice for those looking for a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile offers a gentle tactility that sets it apart from sharper tactile options, providing users with a softer typing experience accompanied by a unique jelly-like sound. While both switches fall under the 'Neutral' category, they differ in their tactile feel and sound characteristics. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings also leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting as it is translucent. However, the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile differs, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
While both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile share the same polycarbonate top housing, their differing nylon bottom housings provide unique sound characteristics. The split qualities of the bottom and top housing materials impact the overall feel and sound of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities offers a dynamic typing experience, with each housing material contributing distinct acoustic properties to the switch.
In conclusion, the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile both showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the differences in their nylon bottom housing create variations in sound depth and fullness. Whether using a switch with similar housing materials or contrasting one with differing top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience is influenced by the combination of materials used. Ultimately, the choice between the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile will depend on the individual's preference for sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the Light Tactile switch is the lighter option with an actuation force of 52 grams, compared to the EverFree's 59 grams. The EverFree switch does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the Durock switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that the Durock Light Tactile switch requires less force to initially trigger a keystroke but requires more force to fully press down compared to the EverFree switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches being more conducive to extended typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches may provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a unique tactile feel and actuation force for users to choose according to their preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch, we find that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Light Tactile. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is seeking.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and users. The choice of board and keycaps used can also have an impact on the overall sound produced by these switches. Moving on to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped and snappy typing experience, with two distinct stages in the keystroke and a heightened responsiveness. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished feel, gentle on the fingers and featuring a smooth key travel. While the two switches have their own unique characteristics, both provide a comfortable typing experience that falls within the safe middle ground range.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Light Tactile switches are excellent choices. The EverFree (EF) Grayish excels in delivering a stepped and snappy feel, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response and heightened responsiveness. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile offers a gentler typing experience with a polished finish, making it an ideal option for users who prefer a smoother key travel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for feel and sound, but rest assured, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, the EF Grayish may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the Light Tactile would be a suitable option. In terms of sound and feel, both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but the EF Grayish provides a stepped and snappy typing experience, while the Light Tactile offers a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force and typing feel.
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