Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, and two prominent contenders are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Orange. The EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its medium weight, neutral sound profile, and impressive affordability, making it an excellent default option for those who appreciate a satisfying tactile bump without overpowering noise. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, a linear switch, is known for its smooth keystrokes, derived from the reissued original MX Orange switches enhanced to meet contemporary performance standards. This switch offers a quieter typing experience, appealing to users who prefer seamless key presses without tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique strengths: the EF Grayish caters to those seeking tactile responsiveness while remaining budget-friendly, whereas the MX Orange offers a pristine linear action ideal for both typing and gaming. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Orange switches, it's essential to note their differences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and capacity to produce a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile. This material provides a clear and resonant quality to the sound when keys are released, which can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy the auditory feedback of their typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a softer and thus deeper, more muted sound profile. This creates a rounder sound experience, emphasizing the subtlety of each keystroke. The contrast between polycarbonate and nylon at the top of each switch showcases how different materials can significantly affect sound characteristics, catering to varying preferences among users.
Looking at the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which creates a consistency in the tactile experience as well as the auditory profile when the keys are pressed down. The nylon's softness in both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and Cherry MX Orange means that, regardless of the differences found in the top housings, users will experience a uniform deeper sound when bottoming out. This shared feature contributes to a substantial and full sound profile with both switches. The response during the keystroke action is largely influenced by the nylon material of the bottom housing, rendering a solid typing experience across both switch types in this regard.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Orange differ significantly, this contrast is balanced by the similarities found in their nylon bottom housings. Users can therefore achieve a distinct auditory and tactile experience—one that is characterized by sharper notes with the polycarbonate top of the EverFree and a rounder tonal quality from the nylon of the MX Orange. Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom materials allows for a more dynamic range of sound and feel, catering to a diverse range of keystroke preferences and styles among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both have distinct actuation forces that cater to different typing preferences. The EverFree Grayish requires an actuation force of 59 grams, making it a heavier switch, while the Cherry MX Orange has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams. This difference of 4 grams may appeal to typists who prefer a more substantial feel, as the heavier switch provides a stronger push. However, specifics on the bottom out force for both switches remain unknown, which means we cannot directly compare that aspect. Overall, for those who favor lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Cherry MX Orange would be the preferred choice, while those seeking a more robust experience might gravitate towards the Gateron EverFree Grayish.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch to the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in travel distance. The EverFree switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Orange, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Orange provides a deeper keypress experience, while the EverFree switch is designed for a quicker, more responsive action. Gamers might favor the Gateron EverFree due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel may prefer the Cherry MX Orange for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding keypress feedback and responsiveness.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch can be characterized as neutral, featuring a moderate sound signature that is neither overly loud nor too quiet. This attribute makes it versatile for various settings, whether you’re typing away at home or in a collaborative work environment. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch does not have specified sound qualities provided, but it is generally known for having a linear action, which typically results in quieter operation compared to tactile and clicky switches. Thus, if you prefer a more subdued auditory experience, both switches might be suitable, but the exact sound of the MX Orange remains an unknown factor without further details.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its stepped and snappy characteristics. The stepped tactile response means that users will notice a defined bump at the actuation point, providing a clear feedback on each keypress. This allows for a responsive and engaging typing experience, enhancing both speed and accuracy. The snappy nature implies that the switch is designed for quick response, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers. Without specific feedback on the feel of the Cherry MX Orange switch, we can only rely on its reputation as a linear switch, which typically means a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, offering a different typing sensation.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Cherry MX Orange switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and sound, they each have their own strengths. The EverFree switch's neutral sound and distinct tactile feel make it appealing for a wide range of users, while the MX Orange's reputation suggests a quieter and smoother experience. Ultimately, if you value a tangible tactile response and balanced sound, the EF Grayish could be the ideal choice. Meanwhile, the MX Orange may be more suited for those seeking a seamless and quiet keypress feel, though further details would be beneficial to fully differentiate their qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are looking for a versatile and approachable tactile option, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is likely the better choice. Its medium weight and neutral sound make it suitable for both home and office environments, providing a balanced feel that appeals to a wide range of users. The stepped and snappy characteristics of the EF Grayish also enhance responsiveness, making it ideal for typing tasks where feedback is appreciated but not overwhelming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more linear typing experience without tactile feedback, the MX Orange would be the way to go. Its design caters well to quick, fluid keystrokes, making it an excellent option for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios where you don't want any interruption in your rhythm. Ultimately, it boils down to whether you value tactile feedback or a more linear performance; both switches have unique strengths that cater to different needs and preferences.
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