Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out for their distinct characteristics. The Gateron EverFree Grayish, a tactile switch, is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price. Positioned as a stellar default tactile choice, this switch offers a balanced typing experience with its neutral, stepped, and snappy attributes. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 Sunflower, also a tactile switch, stands out for its maximum tactility and sharp tactility, resulting in a satisfying clean clack when typing. With its resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating features, this punchy switch caters to those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to 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
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. While the EverFree Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound, the POM T1 Sunflower boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both housing materials offer distinct sound profiles, with the polycarbonate providing a brighter tone and the POM offering a richer, deeper sound.
In terms of bottom housing material, the EverFree Grayish utilizes a nylon housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 Sunflower also features a POM bottom housing that contributes to the overall pleasing and unique sound profile of the switch. While both bottom housings create a deeper sound, the nylon housing of the EverFree Grayish may provide a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the POM housing of the T1 Sunflower.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the EverFree Grayish offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the POM T1 Sunflower provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing materials. However, if a similar sound profile is desired, both switches provide unique options that cater to different preferences in keyboard switch sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct experiences due to their actuation and bottom out forces. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the POM T1 (Sunflower) with an unknown actuation force. However, the POM T1 (Sunflower) requires a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the ideal choice. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel may find the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, ideal for gamers looking for a rapid input. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more substantial pressing motion. Both switches offer a different typing experience, giving users the option to choose based on their preference for response time or depth of keypress.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a resonant and higher-pitched sound experience, offering a clean and sharp auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, with the POM T1 leaning towards a more immersive sound experience for those who enjoy a punchier sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as stepped and snappy, providing a mild tactile feedback with a responsive typing experience. In comparison, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a sharp and accented tactile sensation, giving a pronounced feedback with a medium amount of tactility. Both switches are noted for their snappy and invigorating feel, making typing on them a dynamic and engaging experience.
Overall, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches offer different sound and feel profiles, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities. Depending on your preference for sound and tactility, either switch can deliver excellent performance and user satisfaction. Ultimately, both switches are recommended for users who appreciate a tactile typing experience with distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a more neutral sound profile and a medium weight tactile switch at an approachable price point, the EverFree Grayish may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility with a sharp tactile bump and a resonant, clean sound profile, then the POM T1 Sunflower switch would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences and typing needs.
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