Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Green, a clicky switch. The EF Grayish switch from Gateron's EverFree range stands out for its custom molds, medium weight, neutral sound signature, and attractive price point, making it a great default tactile option. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch doesn't have a specific feature that it is best known for but is known for its clicky feedback. While the EF Grayish offers a subtle yet satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Green provides a more pronounced click with each keystroke. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Standard
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
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Green switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This means that both the EF Grayish and the Green switches will offer a similar sound experience when typing, with a clear and resonant sound. However, the aesthetics of the switches may differ based on design choices, as polycarbonate is translucent and can showcase RGB lighting effects beautifully.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The EverFree (EF) Grayish uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
In terms of overall performance, the use of different housing materials in the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Green switches allows for a unique typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials ensures that both switches offer a balanced sound profile, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile of polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound profile of nylon, both switches provide distinctive qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the EverFree (EF) Grayish is lighter in both aspects. The EverFree has an actuation force of 59 grams, while the Green requires 65 grams to actuate. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Green switch is 80 grams, making it heavier compared to the EverFree, for which the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the EverFree, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Green switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier force required for both actuation and bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feedback and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, we can see that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Green has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference between the two may seem minimal, but it can have a significant impact on the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Green may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress and a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing 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 Green 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
The EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand is praised for its neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's hard to directly compare the two in terms of sound. Moving on to the feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a stepped tactile experience with a snappy response, providing users with a unique typing sensation that feels lively and engaging. As for the Outemu Green switch, its feel properties are unspecified, making it challenging to assess how it would stack up against the EverFree (EF) Grayish in terms of tactile feedback. Overall, if you prioritize a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy tactile feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be a solid choice. However, without detailed information on the Outemu Green switch's qualities, it's difficult to make a direct comparison between the two. Ultimately, for a similar typing experience, it may be best to experiment with both switches firsthand to determine which one aligns better with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Outemu Green clicky switch, you'd want to opt for the EF Grayish if you prefer a medium weight switch with a neutral sound profile and an approachable price point. The EF Grayish is ideal for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, who value a moderate actuation force and a stepped, snappy feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch, with its heavy bottom out force of 80 grams, is suitable for those who prefer a heavier switch and a clicky typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style, as both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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