Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly impact your typing experience. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, stands out for its medium weight and snappy feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback with each keystroke. Its neutral sound signature adds to its appeal as a versatile option, suitable for both typing and gaming without being overly noisy. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea, a linear switch, is lauded for its impeccably smooth typing experience, allowing for quick and seamless transitions between keystrokes. Its neutral sound profile makes it an attractive choice for users who prioritize fluidity and quiet operation. While both switches have their unique attributes—one favoring tactile feedback and the other emphasizing smoothness—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Haimu Orange Sea share striking similarities in their housing materials, particularly in terms of the top housing made from polycarbonate. Both switches benefit from this material's unique properties, which contribute to creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As a stiffer plastic, polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sounds produced during keystrokes. Additionally, both switches utilize a clear polycarbonate housing, making them attractive options for enthusiasts who enjoy using RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion, adding an aesthetic dimension that complements the performance of the switches.
In contrast to the similarities in their top housing, the bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Haimu Orange Sea switches are also made of nylon, a classic material that is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's relatively softer nature absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a more muted and rounder auditory experience as opposed to the brightness achieved with polycarbonate. This difference means that while both top housings contribute to high-frequency sounds, the nylon bottom housings distinctly enhance the lower frequencies, leading to a richer overall sound signature when typing.
Ultimately, the interaction between the dissimilar top and bottom housing materials allows the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Haimu Orange Sea to deliver a well-rounded auditory experience for users. The polycarbonate top housing accentuates the clarity and brightness of sounds when a key is released, while the nylon bottom housing enriches the sound profile as one bottoms out the key. As a result, both switches offer a unique yet harmonious blend of auditory qualities that exemplify the craftsmanship found in mechanical keyboard switches. Whether choosing one or the other, users can expect similar high-performance qualities due to the strategic use of these materials in their design.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch present distinct profiles in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a notable actuation force of 59 grams, suggesting a firmer push is required for activation. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch features a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it significantly easier to press. While the bottom out force for the EverFree is unavailable, the Orange Sea's bottom out force is 45 grams, which is still relatively light. This means the Orange Sea not only requires less force to actuate but also applies less resistance when bottoming out compared to what can be expected from the EF Grayish. Users who are inclined towards a lighter touch for extended typing sessions would likely favor the Haimu Orange Sea, while those preferring a heavier, more substantial typing experience would gravitate towards the Gateron EverFree.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can significantly affect the typing experience. Gamers and users who prioritize responsiveness might prefer the EverFree switch due to its shorter distance, allowing for quicker actuation and faster response times. Conversely, those who appreciate a more traditional typing feel with a deeper keypress may find the Orange Sea switch's longer travel distance to be more suitable, providing a more pronounced feedback during use. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding depth 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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Haimu Orange Sea switches, both exhibit a neutral sound signature, making them well-suited for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The EverFree Grayish has a moderate sound profile, which means it produces a balanced audio experience that doesn't draw too much attention while typing. This quality makes it appealing for users who seek a versatile switch that won’t interfere with their surroundings. Although the sound profile of the Haimu Orange Sea hasn't been explicitly detailed, the switch’s neutral sound signature suggests that it too is designed to blend in seamlessly in similar contexts, offering an understated auditory experience.
Regarding the feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish presents a more nuanced typing experience. Described as a stepped switch, it provides a tactile feedback that feels gradual, allowing typists to sense two stages in their keypress—this can lead to a more controlled and deliberate typing experience. Additionally, its snappy nature makes each keystroke responsive, contributing to a lively feel as you type. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is noted for its impeccably smooth type feel; however, the absence of detailed information on its tactile characteristics means we can't fully compare the advancements in tactile feedback or responsiveness between the two. This could suggest that users looking for a softer, uninterrupted experience may prefer the Orange Sea, while those who appreciate discernible feedback may favor the EF Grayish.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Haimu Orange Sea switches offer neutral sound profiles, making them suitable for a variety of environments. However, the EF Grayish distinguishes itself with its stepped and snappy tactile qualities, promoting a more dynamic typing experience. Conversely, while the Orange Sea is celebrated for its smoothness, further details on its tactile response are needed for a comprehensive comparison. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a seamless typing feel, but either switch will provide a solid foundation for a satisfying keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch really depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a tactile experience that offers clear feedback without being overwhelming, the EverFree Grayish is an excellent option. Its medium weight and neutral sound make it suitable for both home and work environments, providing a balanced typing experience that ensures responsiveness without excessive noise. The stepped and snappy feel adds a unique dimension, making each keystroke feel satisfying and precise. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bumps, the Haimu Orange Sea is the way to go. With its light bottom-out force of 45 grams, it delivers a buttery-smooth typing experience ideal for fast typing or gaming scenarios where speed is crucial. In summary, choose the EverFree Grayish for a versatile, tactile experience, and go for the Orange Sea if you prioritize smoothness and speed. Each switch has its strengths, so consider your personal typing style and the setting in which you'll be using your keyboard to make the best choice.
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