Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role in enhancing your typing experience. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, emerges as a solid default option, boasting a medium weight and a neutral sound signature that makes it approachable for both new and seasoned typists. Its categorized characteristics of being 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Snappy' contribute to a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of tactile response without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches offer a different experience with their linear design, characterized by lightweight, softer nylon housings that promote a smooth and satisfying typing experience. With a glittery aesthetic, these switches are perfect for users who prefer the silent fluidity of linear switches without the interruption of tactile bumps. Each switch has its distinct advantages, catering to different typing styles and preferences, 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Lucky switches exhibit contrasting housing materials in their top housings. The EverFree switch features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This translucent material not only enhances the brightness of the sound but also allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively, giving the switch a visually appealing glow. In contrast, the HMX Lucky sports a nylon top housing, characterized by its softer composition, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a more subdued auditory experience, which some users might find more satisfying for extensive typing sessions.
On the other hand, both the top and bottom housings of the EverFree (EF) Grayish are comprised of nylon, sharing a similar depth of sound and acoustic qualities. This synergy results in a more balanced sound profile, where the softer nylon material on both ends contributes to a consistent auditory feedback as the user types. In comparison, the HMX Lucky exhibits nylon for its bottom housing as well, ensuring that this switch retains the deeper and rounder sound associated with softer materials, thus maintaining a cohesive acoustic experience. Consequently, while the top housings differ in composition, the bottom housings of both switches utilize nylon, embodying a classic switch housing material that contributes to the overall sound profile.
Ultimately, the key differentiation lies in the top housing materials of the switches. The EverFree's polycarbonate top allows for a brighter and crisper sound, whereas the Lucky's nylon top results in a fuller sound profile that may appeal to different user preferences. When considering acoustic performance, the way the bottom housing contributes to the overall feel and sound during keypresses is significant. If both the EverFree and Lucky are constructed similarly in terms of bottom housing, they will create a rounded and rich audio experience while bottoming out, despite the distinct characteristics imparted by their top housings. Those who enjoy the polycarbonate's sharpness in sound may find the EverFree to be their choice, while those in favor of a fuller auditory experience might lean toward the Lucky.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch showcase a distinct contrast in their actuation forces, as well as an unknown measure for bottom out force. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a notably heavier actuation force of 59 grams, making it more suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch features a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. Additionally, the Lucky switch’s bottom out force is measured at 43 grams, indicating it requires less force to fully press down compared to the unknown bottom out force of the EverFree switch. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter switch for longer usage, the HMX Lucky would be a more suitable choice. Conversely, if you appreciate a stronger tactile response with potentially heavier feedback, the EverFree (EF) Grayish would be ideal, but the uncertainty regarding its bottom out force leaves a bit of ambiguity in fully comparing their depths of engagement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference between the two. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Lucky features a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the EverFree the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances often facilitate faster key presses. In contrast, the HMX Lucky's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feel, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between the two would depend on your preference for either responsiveness or a more traditional 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 HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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
The sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is characterized as neutral, providing a moderate sound level that makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. This balance allows users to enjoy a satisfying auditory experience without being overly intrusive, making it an approachable choice for newcomers. In contrast, while the HMX Lucky switch's sound characteristics remain unspecified, the nature of its material, featuring softer and glittery nylon housings, suggests it may produce a distinct sound profile that could differ from the more traditional neutral tone of the EverFree switch. However, without further information on its acoustic properties, a precise comparison cannot be drawn.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its stepped tactile response, delivering a two-stage sensation during key presses. This deliberate design results in a more subdued tactile feedback compared to hypertactile switches, offering a mild yet satisfying typing experience. Alongside the stepped feel, the snappy responsiveness of these switches, likely attributed to their longer springs, enhances the overall engagement during typing. On the other hand, details about the feel of the HMX Lucky switch are not provided, leaving an open question regarding its specific tactile feedback and responsiveness. Thus, it’s difficult to ascertain how the tactile experience compares without further insight into the Lucky’s characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches present a well-rounded option for those seeking a neutral sound and a responsive, two-stage tactile experience. Their construction garners praise for usability in various settings, fostering both beginner and advanced typists. Meanwhile, while the HMX Lucky switches promise a deeply satisfying typing experience with a unique housing material, they lack specific details in both sound and feel, leaving potential users curious about their performance. Ultimately, if you value a neutral sound and responsive tactile feedback, the EverFree offers reliable performance, whereas the Lucky might provide a different but equally intriguing experience once more information becomes available.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a balance between tactile feedback and smooth key presses, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is a stellar option. Its stepped tactile feel and snappy response make it excellent for both typing and gaming, especially if you appreciate a slightly more pronounced tactile bump without overwhelming noise. This switch's neutral sound and mid-range actuation force cater to a wide variety of environments, making it versatile whether you're in an office or your home setup. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter typing experience that feels effortless and fluid, the HMX Lucky is worth considering. With its lightweight actuation force and soft nylon housing, this switch offers a smoother, linear feel that many find deeply satisfying, especially for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most: the tactile feedback and versatility of the EverFree (EF) Grayish, or the smooth, lightweight typing of the HMX Lucky.
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