Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Oil King stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The EF Grayish is a tactile switch known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid option for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King is a linear switch beloved for its buttery smoothness and rich sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. While the EF Grayish offers a stepped and snappy typing experience, the Oil King delivers a low-pitched, creamy, and silky feel with a bassy and polished sound. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Oil King offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. In contrast, the Oil King's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. The differences in sound profiles highlight how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Oil King feature nylon, albeit in different parts of the switch. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. This similarity in housing material for the bottom housing ensures that both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with a consistent sound profile throughout.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Oil King plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a crisp and sharp sound, the Oil King's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, both switches feature nylon bottom housing, creating a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the different housing materials of these switches cater to diverse typing preferences and allow users to choose the sound profile that best suits their needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it's evident that the EverFree has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Oil King's slightly heavier force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Oil King is heavier at 65 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the EverFree is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EverFree may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Oil King is suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to varying preferences, ensuring that users can choose the one that best suits their typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, we can see a noticeable difference. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Oil King linear switch offers a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with one offering a quicker response and the other a more robust typing experience.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound, giving it a more unique and melodic tone. Both switches will give you a satisfying auditory experience, but the Oil King may appeal more to those looking for a deeper and richer sound during typing.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped and snappy typing experience, offering a mild tactile feedback with responsive key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance. Depending on your preference for tactility and smoothness, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience, but the Oil King may be more appealing to those seeking a luxurious and gliding sensation while typing.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the EF Grayish provides a neutral sound and a stepped tactile feel, the Oil King presents a low-pitched sound and a creamy typing experience. Whether you prioritize a moderate sound profile and responsive typing or a bassy sound and smooth keystrokes, both switches are sure to deliver a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a stepped and snappy feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, and a creamy, silky, or buttery feel, the Oil King linear switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how these factors align with your personal typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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