Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron EverFree and KTT Mallo mechanical keyboard switches both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The EF Grayish switch is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and approachable price point, making it a solid default tactile option. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch embodies subtlety and finesse with its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing just enough feedback without being overwhelming. The EF Grayish is categorized as neutral, stepped, and snappy, whereas the Mallo falls under feathery, mild, neutral, stepped, subdued, and subtle. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different types of typists. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities to help you choose the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
One key difference between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Mallo is their top housing material. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. It also provides a clear and resonant sound profile, making typing on these switches a more satisfying experience. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, both the EF Grayish and the Mallo are likely to offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, the bottom housing material of the two switches differs, with the EF Grayish featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Mallo also opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Despite the switch's top housing having a more prominent impact on the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, especially during bottom-out sounds and feels.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Mallo contributes significantly to their sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that provide a sharp and clear sound, the difference in their bottom housing materials gives them unique characteristics. The EF Grayish's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound, while the Mallo's nylon bottom housing offers a similar sound profile. Ultimately, users can expect a distinct typing experience based on the combination of their switch's top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, it is evident that they have distinct characteristics. The EverFree Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, which may appeal to individuals looking for a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Mallo stands out with a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel compared to the EverFree Grayish. While the actuation force for the Mallo is unknown, it is clear that the Mallo offers a medium-light bottom out force, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the EverFree Grayish catering to those who prefer a lighter touch, and the Mallo catering to individuals who desire a slightly heavier keypress experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mallo tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The EverFree (EF) Grayish may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press sensation with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 KTT Mallo switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of environments and users. The Mallo switch offers a more subdued sound compared to the EverFree Grayish, which may be slightly more noticeable but still falls within the neutral category. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is noted for its stepped and snappy tactile feedback, providing a more defined keystroke experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo switch is characterized by its feathery and mild typing feel, offering a lighter touch that can reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches feature a stepped design, providing a mild tactile bump that adds to the overall typing experience. Additionally, the Mallo switch is described as having a more subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is preferred.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and KTT Mallo switches offer unique but complementary qualities. While the EverFree Grayish provides a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback and sound, the Mallo switch focuses on a lighter touch and more subtle typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile, either switch could be a great choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches aim to strike a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users at different levels.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium weight with a neutral sound signature and an affordable price point, the EF Grayish may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a gentle tactility, medium-light typing feel, and a versatile neutral sound signature, the Mallo switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and typing experience. Both switches offer their unique strengths, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
