Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile options offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The EF Grayish is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid default choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Mini i switches provide a gentle tactility, lightweight feel, and a quiet sound profile that is perfect for office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mini i, we see that the EverFree Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Mini i features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree Grayish creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition, ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree Grayish caters to a more resonant and clear sound, while the Mini i's nylon top housing provides a duller and rounder sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the EverFree Grayish and the Mini i utilize nylon for this component. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This similarity in housing material between the two switches ensures that users will experience a consistent sound profile when typing, with the nylon bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the top and bottom housings of the switches may differ, the nylon material in the bottom housing ensures a cohesive sound experience for users of both the EverFree Grayish and the Mini i.
In summary, the choice of housing materials between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mini i significantly impacts the sound profile and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree Grayish results in a sharper and more resonant sound profile, particularly suitable for those interested in RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Despite the differences in top housings, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent and impactful typing experience for users of both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the EverFree Grayish and the Mini i will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams, making the Mini i the lighter option in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams of force, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Mini i is also the heavier option when it comes to bottoming out. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, both offer the same amount of travel distance, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of key press depth. This means that whether you choose the EF Grayish or the Mini i, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for a seamless transition between the two switches, giving users the flexibility to choose based on other factors such as actuation force or sound profile.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mini i switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various settings and user preferences. This means that you can expect similar sound results from both switches, regardless of the specific nuances each switch may have.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a stepped and snappy tactile experience, providing a distinct two-stage feel and responsive feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switches are described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, offering a variety of tactile sensations that prioritize comfort and efficiency during long typing sessions. Despite these differences in tactile descriptions, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective characteristics.
In conclusion, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mini i switches may have slightly different tactile qualities in terms of feel, their neutral sound profiles suggest that users can expect comparable sound experiences from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for tactile feedback and typing comfort. Whether opting for the nuanced feel of the EverFree (EF) Grayish or the gentle tactility of the Mini i, users can look forward to a pleasant typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-weight tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and a balanced typing experience, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with gentle tactility, minimal sound output, and easy-to-press keys for prolonged typing sessions in a professional setting such as an office, the Gateron Mini i switch would suit your needs perfectly. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and workspace requirements.
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