Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer distinct experiences to users. The EF Grayish is a tactile switch crafted by Gateron's Everfree sub-brand, known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and budget-friendly price. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is a linear switch offering a smooth and substantial keystroke experience with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out. While the EF Grayish is favored for its snappy feedback, the Matcha Green Pro stands out for its clacky and creamy typing feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. Despite this similarity, the slight color variation between the two switches may result in subtle differences in the way light interacts with the polycarbonate housing, affecting the overall appearance of the keyboard.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a different typing experience, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in housing material affects the overall acoustics of the switches, making them suitable for users looking for a more muted typing experience. While the housing materials may differ, the similarity in the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housing materials allows users to experience different qualities when typing on the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing users with a tactile typing experience. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, resulting in a distinctive sound profile for each switch. This division of housing materials enhances the overall typing experience and allows users to customize their keyboards based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the EverFree Grayish has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force for the V3 Matcha Green Pro is slightly higher at 63 grams. The EverFree Grayish lacks information on the bottom out force, so it is hard to directly compare. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the EverFree Grayish with its higher actuation force. In terms of weight, both switches offer a different typing experience, with the V3 Matcha Green Pro being lighter and potentially more comfortable for long typing sessions, while the EverFree Grayish may provide a more robust and satisfying typing feel for those who enjoy a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The EverFree switch would be better suited for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch would be preferred by those who prefer a deeper key press sensation, as its longer travel distance provides a more pronounced feel when typing. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them would ultimately depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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 is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users in various settings. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a clacky and resonant sound that is crisp, bright, and immersive. The Matcha Green Pro switch will provide a more audibly satisfying typing experience with its sharp and percussive sound, while the EverFree Grayish switch will offer a more understated and versatile sound output. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the desired auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a stepped and snappy tactile feedback, providing a more moderate tactile experience compared to the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch. The Matcha Green Pro switch, on the other hand, offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience that is smooth, responsive, and lively. Typing on the Matcha Green Pro switch will feel like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, while the EverFree Grayish switch will provide a more controlled and responsive keystroke. Ultimately, the feel of the switch will depend on the user's preference for tactility and keypress responsiveness.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different user preferences. The EverFree Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile and a snappy tactile feedback, making it a solid default option for those who prefer a versatile and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro switch offers a clacky and resonant sound with a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel that is smooth, responsive, and immersive. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, a stepped and snappy feel, and an affordable price point, then the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a clacky and resonant sound profile, and a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel, then the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro might be more suitable for your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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