Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options in the market are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Blue. The EF Grayish, a tactile switch from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand, is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid choice for those looking for a default tactile option. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch known for its distinct clicking sound. While the EF Grayish is categorized as neutral, stepped, snappy, the Blue switch does not have any specific categorizations. If you're looking for a tactile typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the EF Grayish may be the way to go. If you prefer a more audible and clicky typing feedback, the Outemu Blue switch might be more up your alley. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Blue, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing.
However, the key point of difference lies in the bottom housing material. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. This means that when typing on the EverFree (EF) Grayish, the bottom-out sound and feel will be impacted by the nylon bottom housing, providing a unique typing experience not found in the Outemu Blue.
Overall, while both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a deeper and fuller typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, while the Outemu Blue provides a crisper and sharper sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, individuals may choose one switch over the other based on these distinct characteristics.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. The EverFree Grayish offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue provides a lighter actuation force, which is ideal for users who want to type for longer periods without fatigue. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the actuation force, so individuals can choose the one that best suits their preference for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Blue switch has a longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish switch. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the EverFree Grayish switch would be the better option. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press with a longer travel distance, the Outemu Blue switch would be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing/gaming style.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, and can be used in various settings such as at home or work. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, meaning it provides a tactile experience with two stages to the keystroke. This gives users the sensation of feeling some pre-travel and/or post-travel, resulting in a more controlled and deliberate typing experience. Additionally, the switch is noted for being snappy, which indicates a high level of responsiveness due to longer or dual-staged springs. As for the Outemu Blue clicky switch, information regarding its feel is not available, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison.
Taking into consideration the available information, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel that appeals to users seeking a tactile typing experience with moderate actuation force. On the other hand, information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is lacking, making it difficult to provide a comprehensive comparison. Ultimately, if you are looking for a tactile switch with specific qualities such as a neutral sound and stepped feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be a solid choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying clicky sound of a switch and prefer a more traditional typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch might be the better choice. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, and remember that the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience the most.
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