Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two standout options in the tactile switch category. The EF Grayish switch from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand offers a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an accessible price point, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a default tactile option. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches boast a unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, providing a rare and premium typing experience with a sharp tactile feel. While the Moyu Blacks feature a strong downstroke bump, it is the exceptionally sharp and strong upstroke bump that sets them apart, creating a hypertactile sensation. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade), one noticeable difference is in the top housing material used. The EF Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Moyu Black utilizes a PBT top housing, which offers a more neutral sound profile that is neither crisp nor dull. This distinction in material results in varying sound experiences for users, with the EF Grayish producing a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Moyu Black's more subdued sound.
Another point of comparison between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The EF Grayish incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Moyu Black also uses PBT for its bottom housing, contributing to a neutral sound profile similar to its top housing. While both switches offer a different tactile and auditory experience due to their bottom housing materials, the Moyu Black's overall sound profile may be perceived as more consistent and balanced compared to the EF Grayish's potentially more dynamic sound.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials interact to influence the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom. The impact of the bottom housing material is more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material is more noticeable when letting go of a key. This leads to a nuanced experience for users as they interact with the switches, with the choice of housing materials playing a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, it is evident that the Moyu Black is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 50 grams, which is 9 grams lighter than the Grayish at 59 grams. This means that the Moyu Black requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Grayish does not specify a bottom out force, whereas the Moyu Black has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This indicates that the Moyu Black provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the difference in actuation force and bottom out force between the two switches caters to individuals with varying preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, we find that the EverFree has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Moyu Black's 4 mm travel distance. The EverFree's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Moyu Black's longer travel distance may provide a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper level of key travel. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the EverFree offering a quicker and more responsive feel, and the Moyu Black providing a more deliberate and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile that is moderate in both actuation force requirement and sound level, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch offers a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched and crisp sound that can enhance the auditory experience during typing sessions. Both switches can deliver satisfying sound feedback, although the Moyu Black switch may offer a more immersive and distinct typing sound overall.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped tactile sensation with a mild tactile bump, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. Additionally, the switch is described as snappy, enhancing the typing feedback and making each keystroke feel more dynamic. Conversely, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch features an accented tactile feel with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with every keypress. This sharp feedback intensity can offer a more pronounced tactile sensation compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feel, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch offers a resonant sound profile and an accented tactile sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, users can make a decision based on whether they prefer a more moderate and versatile typing experience with the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch or a sharper and more pronounced tactile feel with the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a neutral sound profile, a medium weight switch, and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant sound profile, a medium-heavy feel with an accented and sharp tactile sensation, and a premium typing experience, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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