Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish is praised for its reliable tactile feedback, medium weight, and affordable price point, making it a great option for those seeking a well-rounded tactile switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its pronounced tactile bump, resulting in a more exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant and customizable lighting effects. While both switches share these characteristics in their top housings, the EverFree (EF) Grayish distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Polaris Purple create distinct experiences for users. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish contributes to a more muffled and rounded sound upon bottoming out a key, contrasting with the sharper and crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing. In comparison, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with its top housing, resulting in a consistent sharp, higher-pitched sound profile throughout the keystroke. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, offering varying tactile experiences to users.
Ultimately, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Polaris Purple share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The EverFree (EF) Grayish's inclusion of a nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Polaris Purple maintains consistency in its sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the keystroke. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch performance allows users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. The EverFree Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, its bottom out force is unknown, which may affect the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. While the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unknown, the heavier bottom out force suggests a more tactile typing experience compared to the EverFree Grayish. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Polaris Purple's 4 mm. The EverFree (EF) Grayish would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a slightly deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding response time and key press depth.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of uses. The sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used. Moving on to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped feel, providing a more mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished feel, giving a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are excellent options to consider. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a stepped feel for a more mild tactile experience, the Polaris Purple provides a mild and polished feel for a gentle and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound, as both switches are versatile and suitable for various typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a stepped and snappy feel with a neutral sound profile, the EF Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a mild and polished typing experience with a big tactile bump, the Polaris Purple could be the switch that suits your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire. Choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
Mentioned in this article
