Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer unique features and advantages. The EF Grayish from Gateron's sub-brand, Everfree, stands out as a tactile switch with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an affordable price point. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro by Akko boasts a linear design with a snappy sound signature, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. While the EF Grayish offers a neutral and stepped feel, the V3 Piano Pro provides a bouncy and clacky sensation. Both switches have their strengths and appeal, making them excellent choices for different 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, despite this similarity, the overall sound experience may still differ between the two switches based on the other materials used in their construction.
One significant point of contrast between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in materials showcase how the choice of top housing can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal of the switches also varies due to their housing materials. The EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing allows for a translucent design, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual customization but provides a classic and timeless appearance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding sound profile, aesthetics, and intended usage, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The EverFree Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, while its bottom out force remains unknown. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the EverFree Grayish may provide a slightly lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the V3 Piano Pro offers a more substantial push feel. Both switches deliver different tactile experiences, with the EverFree Grayish resulting in a lighter actuation force, and the V3 Piano Pro offering a more pronounced difference between actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preferences.
Travel distance
The EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EF Grayish. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant, but it can still impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the EverFree (EF) Grayish with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more definitive keypress may choose the Akko V3 Piano Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. 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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of settings and users, making it a versatile option. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as having a clacky and resonant sound, adding a lively and crisp quality to each keystroke. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that can enhance the overall typing feel, with the V3 Piano Pro switch offering a more distinctive sound that may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced acoustics.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is noted for its stepped and snappy tactile feedback, offering a responsive typing experience that feels alive. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. While both switches offer different tactile experiences, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing feel that can cater to the preferences of different users.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EF Grayish switch provides a neutral sound signature and stepped, snappy tactile feedback, making it a solid default tactile option for those seeking a versatile switch. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch offers a lively and crisp sound signature, along with bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky tactile qualities that provide a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and moderate actuation force, as well as a stepped and snappy feel, then the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a clacky and resonant sound, a medium-light actuation force, and a bouncy, creamy, polished, or silky feel, then the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing experience goals.
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