Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Black stand out as popular options with their unique features. The EF Grayish from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand is a tactile switch known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a great default option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black, a linear switch, is recognized for its smoothness and deep sound profile, thanks to Cherry's Hyperglide tooling. It offers a classic textured feel while typing. Each switch has its own advantages that cater 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Black, it is evident that the EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, while the Cherry MX Black opts for nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Black. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish providing a crisper sound while the Cherry MX Black offers a more mellow tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Black use nylon as the material of choice. This means that typing on switches from either of these models will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Despite the use of the same material for the bottom housing, the overall typing experience may still differ slightly due to other factors such as switch design and construction. However, in terms of sound profile, users can expect a similar outcome when it comes to the bottom housing of both switches.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials, whether polycarbonate or nylon, are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. Understanding these nuances can help users make an informed decision when selecting a switch based on their preferred sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Black offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, we find that the EverFree Grayish has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the MX Black's 60 grams. However, the MX Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EverFree Grayish may be the better option due to its slightly lower actuation force. On the other hand, the MX Black's higher bottom out force provides a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
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 Cherry MX Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the EF Grayish switch may cater more to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the MX Black switch may offer a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and usage. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the shorter travel distance offering a more responsive feel and the longer travel distance providing a more deliberate keypress.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch provides a low-pitched sound that leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so personal preference plays a significant role in overall satisfaction.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is noted for its stepped feel, which gives it a more subtle tactile feedback compared to hyper-tactile switches. Additionally, it is described as snappy, offering a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch is recognized for its textured feel, which may provide noticeable friction when pressed. It is also characterized as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out. Again, personal preference and typing style will heavily influence which feel is preferred by individual users.
Taking all available information into account, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Cherry MX Black switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral sound and a stepped, snappy feel, making it a versatile option for a broad range of users. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference, typing style, and the specific use case for the keyboard.
Conclusion
In concluding, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the EF Grayish if you prefer a medium weight switch with a neutral sound profile and an affordable price point. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether used at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, opt for the MX Black if you prefer a heavier switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a textured feel. The MX Black offers a classic smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for weight, sound, and feel while typing.
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