Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silent Yellow, a linear switch. The EF Grayish stands out as a reliable tactile option with its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and reasonable price point. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is known for its silent operation, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. While the EF Grayish offers a tactile feel with a snappy response, the Silent Yellow provides a smooth linear 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Yellow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate housings. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Silent Yellow benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, providing a consistent sound experience for users.
While the top housings of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Silent Yellow share similar properties due to their polycarbonate material, their bottom housings differ in material. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Outemu Silent Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience as the EverFree (EF) Grayish in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a more muted and softer typing experience compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
When comparing the overall typing experience of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Silent Yellow, the combination of their different top and bottom housing materials influences the sound and feel of each key press. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish providing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Silent Yellow offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing. Overall, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch reveals some differences in weight. The EverFree Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's 65 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Yellow is heavier at 80 grams, while the bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish is unknown. This means that the Silent Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the EverFree Grayish offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference for typing or gaming. If the bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish is similar to its actuation force, then users can expect a consistent typing experience similar to the Silent Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree Grayish may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are often favored in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for.
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 Yellow 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 Grayish tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is unknown. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound produced by these switches may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree Grayish switch is noted for its stepped tactile feel, providing users with a two-stage typing experience. Additionally, it is described as snappy, offering a responsive typing feel due to its longer or dual-staged springs. The feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare it to the characteristics of the EverFree Grayish switch in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree Grayish tactile switch offers a versatile option with a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel. On the other hand, while information about the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is lacking in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on individual preferences, but for similar results to the EverFree Grayish, one might consider the Outemu Silent Yellow for a linear option with potentially different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider the specific characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a medium-weight tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier linear switch with a bottom out force of 80 grams, the Outemu Silent Yellow might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure the most satisfying typing experience.
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