Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie represent two distinct yet compelling options. The EverFree Grayish, a tactile switch, is designed for those who appreciate a noticeable actuation point, offering a medium weight and a neutral sound signature that strikes a balance between feedback and typing comfort. It's an ideal choice for users who enjoy a tactile response in their typing experience without being overly loud, making it a stellar default option at an approachable price point. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, a linear switch, delivers exceptional smoothness and a "thocky" sound profile, perfect for typists and gamers alike who prefer a seamless keystroke without any tactile bump. This medium-weight switch breaks the price barrier without compromising quality, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie feature distinctly different materials in their top housings, which significantly influence the sound profiles they produce. The EverFree employs a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its rigidity and translucency. This contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates clearly, making it an excellent choice for RGB setups where the aesthetic benefit of clear housing enhances the visual experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie's top housing is made of POM, which is known for delivering a deeper and more muted sound. The softer nature of POM results in a sound profile that leans towards a pleasing and unique auditory experience, though it lacks the high-pitched clarity provided by polycarbonate. Consequently, users can expect a more pronounced auditory difference when comparing the responsiveness and overall sound quality during key presses, particularly on the release phase.
When examining the bottom housings, both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Sea Salt Smoothie utilize materials that serve to deepen and enrich the sound profile, albeit in different ways. The EverFree features a nylon bottom housing, a material renowned for its classic feel and sound, which is softer and more absorbent than plastic alternatives. This leads to a fuller, duller tone that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing similarly creates a deeper sound profile, providing a unique auditory signature that is different but equally muted compared to nylon. Consequently, both switches share an affinity for producing a deeper sound, yet the textural differences between nylon and POM contribute to a varied tactile sensation during use.
Ultimately, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie incorporate different materials in their construction, the interplay of the bottom and top housing materials plays a critical role in the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate of the EverFree upper housing yields a sharp sound when releasing the key, but when combined with the softer nylon bottom, it delivers a heavier bottom-out feel. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie's combination of POM housing in both top and bottom leads to a more cohesive auditory experience, lacking the sharpness of polycarbonate but providing a distinct, muted sound throughout. Therefore, while users might achieve similar outcomes in terms of a deeper sound profile, the character of the audio and tactile feedback will vary between the two options, driven by the unique properties of their selected materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, a distinct difference in actuation force stands out. The EverFree has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Sea Salt Smoothie is lighter at 48 grams, appealing to users who favor prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, leaving an incomplete comparison regarding that specific aspect. However, given the known actuation forces, users can expect the EverFree to provide a firmer resistance, which can enhance the typing feel for some, whereas the lighter Sea Salt Smoothie would be advantageous for users seeking ease and speed.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the EverFree switch the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that gamers often prefer for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a more traditional depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, if you're looking for a faster response time, the EverFree is the better choice, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a more hearty typing sensation.
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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, it's clear that they diverge significantly. The EF Grayish offers a neutral sound signature, which means it's balanced and versatile enough for varied environments—be it at home or in professional settings. Its moderate sound level ensures it won’t be disruptive, making it accessible for both beginners and more experienced users. In contrast, while the sound profile of the Sea Salt Smoothie is noted to be "thocky," detailed characteristics remain unspecified. This suggests the Smoothie could provide a deeper, more resonant sound than the EF Grayish, catering to enthusiasts who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback during typing.
When evaluating the feel of these two switches, the differences again stand out. The EverFree (EF) Grayish is characterized by its stepped tactile response, which creates a nuanced tactile sensation with a distinct transition at the actuation point, offering a gentle perceived bump during typing. This feature, combined with its snappiness, contributes to a highly responsive experience that invigorates the overall feel of each keystroke. The Sea Salt Smoothie’s feel details were not outlined, leaving room for speculation—it could either share a smooth linear sensation common to linear switches or possess unique tactile qualities. Given that an absence of information on feel limits definitive comparisons, users may need to explore personal impressions or feedback from others.
In summary, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Sea Salt Smoothie switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The EF Grayish provides a neutral auditory experience paired with a distinct tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a responsive and mildly tactile typing experience. While the Sea Salt Smoothie’s thocky sound profile might resonate well with users seeking pronounced auditory feedback, its tactile sensation remains unknown. Overall, your choice between these switches will largely depend on your specific sound and feel preferences, as well as your typing experiences and environments.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, your choice should be guided by your typing preferences and the intended usage scenario. If you are looking for a reliable, tactile experience that will serve well in various situations, including the office or home, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent option. Its stepped and snappy tactile feedback provides a satisfying keystroke while maintaining a neutral sound profile that won’t disturb those around you. This makes it particularly appealing if you appreciate a tactile response without overwhelming noise, whether you are a beginner or seasoned typist. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience paired with a thocky sound profile, the Sea Salt Smoothie will likely suit you better. This linear switch offers a premium feel thanks to its all-POM construction and is ideal for anyone who enjoys a smoother keystroke without any tactile bump. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and environment; whether you lean towards tactile feedback or fluid linearity, both switches offer quality options tailored to different experiences.
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