Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer a tactile typing experience that many users appreciate. The EverFree Grayish stands out with its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and budget-friendly price point, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable tactile switch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is known for its subtle tactility, light typing experience, and quiet operation, providing a more discreet typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Brown switches have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the MX Brown's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material in the EF Grayish also allows for better translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon material in the MX Brown absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the EF Grayish and MX Brown switches utilize nylon materials. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb more sound and contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of the nylon bottom housing in both switches results in a more muted bottom-out sound and a smoother feel when pressing down on the keys. This contrasts with the impact of the top housing material, which affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Brown switches have different top housing materials (polycarbonate vs. nylon), their bottom housings share the same nylon material. This means that while the sound profiles of the two switches may differ when pressing down on the keys, they will have similar characteristics when releasing the keys. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the materials used in their housing, with the EF Grayish providing a sharper and crisper sound due to polycarbonate, and the MX Brown offering a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its nylon construction.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch differ in weight. The EF Grayish has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the MX Brown's lighter 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the EF Grayish is unknown while the MX Brown has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may favor the MX Brown for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier actuation force of the EF Grayish. Both switches provide tactile feedback, and users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience based on the force preferences mentioned. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a quicker response time due to its short travel distance, which is beneficial for gamers who need fast reaction speeds. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different benefits based on their travel distance, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when deciding which one to choose.
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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral and moderate sound profile that is suitable for various settings and user preferences. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds a deeper and richer tone to key presses. Both switches will produce satisfying sound feedback, but the EverFree switch leans towards a more balanced and versatile sound, while the MX Brown switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is characterized as a stepped switch, providing a more subtle tactile feedback with two distinct stages during key presses. Additionally, it is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience that feels alive and engaging. In comparison, the Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its textured feel, which may provide noticeable friction during typing. This texture may be preferred by some users, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience offered by the EverFree switch.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Cherry MX Brown switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree switch provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, making it a versatile and engaging option for users. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch offers a bassy sound and a textured feel, providing a deeper and more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, you should think about your preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a switch with a medium weight, neutral sound profile, and approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light typing experience, gentle tactility, and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and suited to your typing style.
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