Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer distinctly different experiences tailored to diverse typing preferences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish is renowned for its balanced tactile feedback, boasting a medium weight and a neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who seek a reliable, versatile tactile option without breaking the bank. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound, delivering an exhilaratingly bouncy feel that can enhance the enjoyment of each keystroke, perfect for users who relish a smooth linear experience. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish is designed for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a snappy response, the Lotus (Heavy) appeals to enthusiasts craving a fluid and dynamic input method. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs!
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), notable differences emerge, particularly in the choice of materials used in their top housings. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer properties that contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This quality allows for enhanced resonance, making the overall sound more distinguishable and bright. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is a softer plastic that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound. Consequently, users can expect a different auditory experience; the EverFree emphasizes clarity and brightness, whereas the Lotus leans towards a more rounded and muted sound.
Both switches, however, share the same nylon material for their bottom housings. This similarity in material allows for an interesting dynamic in sound and feel during keypresses. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a duller and rounder auditory experience, enhancing the depth of sound when the key bottoms out. As such, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing significantly impacts the sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Therefore, both switches will provide a unique combination of auditory profiles depending on the upper and lower housing materials, yet they will also share some sonic characteristics due to the commonality of nylon in their bottoms.
In summary, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer contrasting sound profiles primarily influenced by their respective top housing materials, with polycarbonate on the former and nylon on the latter. This divergence results in the EverFree being crisp and bright while the Lotus delivers a more muted and rounded sound. Nevertheless, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a consistent deeper sound profile, anchoring the overall auditory experience. Ultimately, users can expect differentiated performance from each switch while also enjoying similar notes of depth and fullness due to the shared nylon material in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The EverFree switch requires an actuation force of 59 grams, which positions it as slightly heavier than the HMX Lotus, which has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams. This could make the EverFree less ideal for prolonged typing sessions if one prefers a lighter touch, while the HMX Lotus may appeal to those seeking a more substantial push that some may find more satisfying for a typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force for the EverFree is unknown, while the Lotus switch has a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams, adding another layer to their differences. If the bottom out force of the EverFree were known and comparable, similar results in typing experience could be anticipated based on the actuation forces alone, but without this information, the HMX Lotus currently stands as the switch with a clearer, defined resistance when pressed to the maximum.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the EverFree (EF) Grayish the shorter option, which can appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its more responsive and swift actuation. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a fuller, more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper feel. While both switches are relatively close in travel distances, the EverFree leans towards a performance-oriented design, whereas the Lotus caters to those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch produces a neutral sound signature that makes it versatile for various environments, whether you're using it in a home office or a shared workspace. This neutral profile allows for a moderate level of noise, making it pleasant for users who prefer a quiet typing experience while still gaining auditory feedback. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its bright, resonant sound. This more pronounced auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more vibrant acoustic signature, contributing to a lively atmosphere when typing. However, it’s essential to note that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard design and the type of keycaps used.
Regarding the feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a thoughtfully designed tactile experience. With a stepped tactile response, it allows users to feel a distinct bump at actuation, creating a satisfying two-stage keystroke. This makes it an appealing choice for typists who enjoy a tactile feedback that isn’t overly aggressive. Additionally, the snappy nature of the switch ensures rapid responsiveness, making each keystroke feel invigorating. In contrast, the tactile qualities of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch remain unknown, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons. As such, the user experience can vary significantly depending on personal preference for tactile feedback.
In conclusion, if you are considering the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches, the notable differences in sound and feel can significantly influence your typing experience. The EverFree delivers a neutral sound and a satisfying, tactile feedback ideal for a wide range of users, while the Lotus offers a bright auditory experience that may appeal to users who enjoy more pronounced sound. Since the tactile qualities of the Lotus switches are unknown, you may need to try them personally to see how they resonate with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches showcase unique attributes that can cater to varying typing preferences, making them strong contenders in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and the intended use case. If you appreciate a responsive and versatile typing experience that is suitable for both work and home use, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent choice. Its stepped feel, neutral sound signature, and approachable force make it ideal for users who enjoy a tactile bump without overwhelming feedback. However, if you’re seeking a switch that delivers a more robust and bouncy keystroke, often preferred for gaming or fast-paced typing, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) would be the way to go. The heavier actuation force coupled with its bright sound delivers a delightful tactile experience for those who enjoy a bit more weight in their keystrokes. In essence, choose the EF Grayish for a balanced, general-purpose use or the Lotus for a lively, engaging experience.
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