Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Huano Sakura switches stand out as compelling options for different typing preferences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its thoughtful design, utilizing custom molds to deliver a medium weight feel and a neutral sound signature. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a balance between tactile feedback and noise level, providing a snappy response that enhances typing precision without being overly loud. In contrast, the Huano Sakura is a linear switch known for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, catering to those who enjoy smooth keystrokes and wish to minimize finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Choosing the right switch ultimately comes down to personal preference: the tactile nature of the EverFree (EF) Grayish can offer satisfaction and feedback, while the Sakura's smooth operation appeals to speed typists. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Huano Sakura, one of the most notable differences lies in the materials used for their top housings. The EverFree features a polycarbonate (PC) top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which enables a sharper and crisper sound profile. This characteristic of polycarbonate not only enhances clarity when typing but also makes it a popular choice for RGB lighting applications due to its light-transmitting properties. In contrast, the Sakura employs a POK (polyketone) top housing that, while durable and smooth, provides a sound profile that is inherently more muted compared to polycarbonate. The POK material's strength and smoothness do contribute to a pleasant tactile experience, but it does not lend the same degree of resonance as polycarbonate does.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which is a known classic in switch designs. Nylon's inherent qualities lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing sound more effectively than harder materials due to its softer nature. As such, users of both the EverFree and Sakura will experience similar auditory feedback where the bottom housing is concerned, offering a rounder sound when bottoming out. This shared use of nylon across both switches means that despite differing upper housing materials, the fundamental characteristics of sound produced at bottom-out will share notable similarities, delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the performance and sound profile of both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Huano Sakura switches highlight the importance of the combination of materials used in their design. The difference in top housing materials contributes to varied auditory experiences during key releases, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent depth in sound when typing. For users exploring switch options, this means that while the overall sound may vary based on the combination of top and bottom materials, one can expect a certain uniformity in the low-end characteristic provided by nylon, regardless of any other distinctions. Thus, both switches epitomize unique advantages, appealing to varied typing preferences while still providing a fundamentality in sound through the use of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The EverFree switch has an actuation force of 59 grams, indicating a heavier resistance needed to register a keystroke, while the Sakura switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams. This means that typists or gamers looking for a lighter feel might prefer the Sakura for longer typing sessions or more relaxed gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force of the EverFree switch is unknown, which limits a direct comparison on that aspect. The Sakura's bottom out force, measured at 45 grams, is relatively light, suggesting a more forgiving feel when fully pressed down. In summary, the EverFree switch offers a heavier push for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, while the Sakura is the lighter option, ideal for those who prefer less forceful keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sakura boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the EverFree switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Sakura's longer travel distance may be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience, providing a sense of depth and stability in their keystrokes. While both switches have their respective benefits, individuals looking for a snappier feel may favor the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, whereas those who appreciate a more robust keypress might lean towards the Huano Sakura.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
The sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is characterized as neutral, resulting in a moderate acoustical output that suits a variety of environments, be it home or office. This balanced sound signature makes it an appealing choice for users who prefer a subtle auditory feedback without overly distracting noise during typing. In contrast, while the specific sound characteristics of the Huano Sakura linear switch are not detailed, it is noted to have medium acoustics. This suggests that, though it’s a linear switch and may lack the pronounced auditory feedback of tactile switches, it might still provide a pleasant sound experience, particularly for those who appreciate a quieter operation.
When examining the feel of the two switches, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch boasts a stepped tactile experience, offering clear feedback during activation that is less pronounced than hypertactile switches. The snappy responsiveness contributed by its design adds to the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. The specific tactile qualities of the Sakura switch are not mentioned; however, as a linear switch, it is likely to provide a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bumps that typify the EverFree, catering to users who prefer a more streamlined feel during extended typing sessions.
In summary, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Huano Sakura linear switch present different tactile experiences and sound qualities. While the EverFree offers a balanced sound and a responsive, tactile typing sensation with clear feedback, the Sakura is likely to deliver a smoother keystroke. These distinct traits cater to different typing preferences, allowing users to find what best suits their style, whether they opt for the engaging tactile feedback of the EverFree or the sleek, uninterrupted strokes of the Sakura. Given their unique qualities, choosing either switch ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a balanced typing experience with a tactile bump that isn't overly pronounced, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent choice. Its stepped and snappy feel makes it great for both casual typing and more intensive tasks, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying feedback without being overwhelmed. Additionally, its neutral sound profile means it's versatile enough for office environments and home use alike. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly lightweight touch for long typing sessions where fatigue needs to be minimized, the Sakura linear switch would be more suitable. The lighter bottom-out force allows for faster typing speeds and a smoother experience overall, making it a wonderful choice for gamers or typists who favor a more fluid motion without tactile interruptions. In essence, select the EverFree (EF) Grayish for a balanced tactile feel and versatility, while the Huano Sakura will serve well for those who prioritize a soft, linear response.
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