Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile options have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish from Everfree is renowned for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid default tactile option. On the other hand, the Red Panda by Outemu offers a light-medium amount of tactility, a distinct bottom-out sound reminiscent of raindrops, and a clackier top-out sound. While both switches provide tactile feedback, the EF Grayish leans towards a snappier experience while the Red Panda offers a thocky and mild typing sensation. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Red Panda, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the differences lie in their bottom housing. The EverFree (EF) Grayish uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Red Panda also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar acoustic benefits but with slight variations in sound quality.
Despite the similarities in their top housing material, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Red Panda differ when it comes to their bottom housing. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, each switch may offer a unique sound profile due to the differing properties of nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This difference in sound profile between the two switches may contribute to the overall typing experience and preference for users who prioritize sound feedback. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly between the two switches, providing users with options to choose based on their preferred typing experience.
In understanding the impact of housing materials on switch sound and feel, it is essential to consider how the qualities of each material are distributed in the switch. With different materials used for the top and bottom housings, the qualities attributed to each material will influence different aspects of the typing experience. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. As such, users may prioritize specific housing materials based on their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we see that the EverFree Grayish requires a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams, making the Red Panda the lighter option in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red Panda requires 60 grams, while the EverFree Grayish force is unknown. This means that the Red Panda is heavier in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Red Panda may be a better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the EverFree Grayish. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces may influence the user's preference depending on their typing style and personal preference. Overall, those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Red Panda, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the EverFree Grayish.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer these switches for their fast actuation. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying feel for those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so either option would provide similar results for most users.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, looking for a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a thocky sound experience with deep, rich tones that can be quite satisfying. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that can be further enhanced or altered depending on the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a stepped feel with two distinct stages during the keystroke, providing a more controlled and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the switch is described as snappy, meaning it responds quickly to key presses due to its longer or dual-staged springs. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with gentle characteristics that fall within a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. The Red Panda switch is known for its light-medium amount of tactility, providing a different tactile feel compared to the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile and a more stepped and snappy feel, the Red Panda switch provides a thocky sound experience and a mild typing feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing style, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Overall, both switches are reliable options that can deliver quality performance in various typing scenarios.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a medium weight that is suitable for most typing purposes, the EverFree Grayish switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky sound with a light-medium amount of tactility and a more gentle typing experience, the Red Panda switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and which features align best with your needs.
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