Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. On one hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a tactile typing experience that is both snappy and neutral in sound, making it a great default option for those seeking a medium-weight switch at an approachable price point. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is specifically designed for office environments, providing a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience that is easy to press and bouncy, catering to the need for discretion in professional settings. 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 Mountain Top, it is evident that both switches prioritize sound profiles, but achieve it in different ways. The EF Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This is ideal for those who prioritize clarity and resonance in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top's nylon top housing yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. Both materials offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the EF Grayish focusing on clarity and the Mountain Top emphasizing depth.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which again emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. This consistency in housing materials ensures a cohesive sound profile throughout the typing experience, whether it be during the keypress or the key release. While the EF Grayish splits the qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom, the Mountain Top maintains a consistent sound profile with its use of nylon for both top and bottom housings.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Mountain Top ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The EF Grayish offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing, catering to those who prioritize a rounder sound. Both switches showcase the impact housing materials can have on sound profiles, demonstrating the importance of material choice in creating a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we find significant differences. The EF Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Mountain Top's 40 grams, making it the heavier option. However, the EF Grayish lacks information on its bottom out force, while the Mountain Top has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light. This means that the Mountain Top requires less force to trigger a keystroke but offers a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mountain Top, while individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the EF Grayish. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit for their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it's evident that the distance they travel when pressed is the same, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. This means that whether you choose the EverFree Grayish tactile switch or the Mountain Top linear switch, you can expect to get consistent feedback and performance in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for tactile versus linear typing experiences.
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 Mountain Top 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound level that is suitable for a variety of typing environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so it is important to consider the overall sound experience when selecting a switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is noted for its stepped and snappy characteristics. The switch offers a two-stage tactile feel, providing a mild bump during key presses. Additionally, the snappy response of the switch enhances the typing experience by making it more lively and responsive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle. These qualities indicate that the switch offers a light and spring-like feel, making typing effortless and comfortable. The gentle resistance of the switch ensures a low-impact typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral sound signature and a stepped, snappy feel, the Mountain Top switch delivers a quiet typing experience with bouncy, easy-to-press characteristics. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel by selecting either of these switches based on their specific requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile and medium weight, the EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and light actuation switch designed for office environments, the Mountain Top linear switch would be more suitable. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best decision for your keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios.
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