Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Silent Red stand out for their unique features. The EF Grayish from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand offers a tactile typing experience with its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red provides a linear feel similar to the MX Red but operates quietly, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the EF Grayish is praised for its snappy tactile feedback, the MX Silent Red stands out for its low-pitched, textured 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Silent Red utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound, the difference lies in their top housing materials. The Cherry MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, enhancing the overall sound profile with its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing provides a unique sound experience with its sharper and crisper tones. The impact of these housing materials can be felt differently when typing, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Cherry MX Silent Red ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a combination of nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound, but the EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing sets it apart with a sharper and crisper tone. Whether you prefer a duller, rounder sound from nylon or a more resonant sound from polycarbonate, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the MX Silent Red's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the EverFree (EF) Grayish requires more force to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to determine which switch has a heavier force for bottoming out. When considering weight, lighter switches like the MX Silent Red are preferred by some for longer typing sessions and gaming, while heavier switches like the EverFree (EF) Grayish provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the EF Grayish tactile switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Silent Red linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the EF Grayish switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the MX Silent Red switch may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style, as both offer unique advantages based on their differing travel distances.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of environments and users, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced typists. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted and thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, reducing the noise output significantly for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially in noise-sensitive settings. The sound profile of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used, so it is essential to consider these elements when selecting a switch based on sound preferences.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as stepped and snappy, offering a tactile experience with a moderate actuation force and a responsive keystroke. This provides a mild tactile feedback that is still engaging for users who prefer a more subtle tactile feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, which may provide some additional friction when pressed, potentially offering a different typing experience for users who appreciate a slightly rougher feel. Ultimately, the feel of a switch comes down to personal preference and typing style, so it is important to try out different switches to find the one that suits you best.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EverFree Grayish provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, the MX Silent Red offers a muted, thocky sound and a textured feel. Depending on your preferences for noise level and tactile feedback, either switch could be a suitable option for your mechanical keyboard setup. Additionally, keep in mind that subjective qualities such as sound and feel can vary for each individual user, so it is recommended to try out multiple switches before making a final decision to ensure the best typing experience for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a tactile typing experience with a medium weight and neutral sound profile at an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slightly heftier linear switch that operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the Cherry MX Silent Red is a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and budget.
Mentioned in this article
