Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Medium Tactile. The EF Grayish from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound profile, and reasonable pricing, making it a solid choice for those looking for a default tactile switch. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile stands out for its balanced tactility and unique jelly-like sound signature, providing a different tactile experience. While both switches offer distinct features that may cater to different preferences, diving deeper into their characteristics will help you make the best choice for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Medium Tactile switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through the housing. Despite both switches sharing this top housing material, the differences in their respective bottom housings will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Durock Medium Tactile switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches will influence the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
While both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Medium Tactile switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the variation in their bottom housings highlights how different housing materials can affect the sound and feel of a switch. The EverFree (EF) Grayish's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for the specific sound and feel that each housing material provides.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch to the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The EverFree Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, while the Medium Tactile's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish is unknown, while the Medium Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the EverFree Grayish would provide a lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, but the Medium Tactile would offer a more substantial feel with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preference, with the EverFree Grayish being ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, and the Medium Tactile being suitable for those who enjoy a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch with a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch will provide a faster response time, making it ideal for gamers who require quick reactions. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your 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 Durock Medium 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 Medium 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature, which may provide a unique auditory experience for those seeking something different. The sound produced by both switches will ultimately be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as stepped and snappy, offering a responsive typing experience with a mild tactility that is not overwhelming. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, providing a balance between tactility and smoothness for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback and smoothness, catering to the preferences of different users.
In conclusion, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Durock Medium Tactile switches each possess unique sound and feel qualities, they both offer medium tactile experiences that are suitable for a variety of users. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences with their respective characteristics. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard setup that suits your preferences will help determine which one is the best fit for your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the EverFree (EF) Grayish if you are looking for a neutral switch with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an affordable price point. This switch is best suited for a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various typing intents and purposes. On the other hand, opt for the Durock Medium Tactile if you prefer a switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. This switch offers a pronounced yet balanced tactile feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without it being too overwhelming or subtle. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel.
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