Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Ocean offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish is a tactile switch that stands out for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and budget-friendly price point, making it a solid choice for those looking for a default tactile option. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean from Outemu is a linear switch that remains relatively unknown in terms of standout features. While the EF Grayish boasts qualities such as being neutral, stepped, and snappy, the Silent Ocean falls under a different classification. Each switch has its own advantages and drawbacks, making it essential to delve deeper into their characteristics to make an informed decision suitable for individual preferences. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Ocean, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboards they are used in. Despite this similarity, the difference in top housing between the two switches could result in subtle variations in sound when typing or gaming.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Ocean sets them apart. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material could lead to noticeable disparities in typing sound and overall keyboard feel between the two switches. However, both switches benefit from the use of nylon in the bottom housing, providing users with a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials for the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Ocean plays a significant role in defining the sound and feel of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, the distinction lies in the nylon bottom housing. The EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Ocean showcase how variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, offering users unique options to suit their preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper sound with nylon, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch offer different experiences for users. The EverFree Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 45 grams, making it a slightly heavier option. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Ocean at 65 grams is heavier than the Grayish, which has an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Silent Ocean for its lower actuation force, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the EverFree Grayish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force application.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Ocean has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish. The difference in travel distance may result in different typing experiences for users. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the EverFree Grayish for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may choose the Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
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 Silent Ocean 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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. In comparison, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch are unknown, but it is important to consider that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used. Moving on to the feel, the EF Grayish is described as having a stepped tactile feel, providing a more subtle bump compared to hyper-tactile switches, along with a snappy response that adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, the tactile feel of the Silent Ocean switch is not specified. Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound and a responsive feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a solid choice. If you prefer a linear switch or are unsure about the specific characteristics of the Silent Ocean, opting for the EF Grayish would likely yield similar satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium weight, neutral sound, and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silent Ocean may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it's important to prioritize what aspects of the typing experience are most important to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
