Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish stands out for its neutral sound signature, medium weight, and affordable price point, making it a solid choice for those looking for a reliable tactile switch. On the other hand, the Shadow Double Spring switch boasts a high level of tactility, thanks to its two-staged spring design, resulting in a clacky and sharp typing experience. Both switches are described as snappy and stepped, but the Shadow switch also adds accents of being bouncy and high-pitched. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both use polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish differs in that it utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches still maintain the sharp and clear sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate top housings. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish with its nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains a consistent high-pitched sound profile throughout. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a customized typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a combination of polycarbonate and either nylon or polycarbonate in their housing materials, resulting in unique typing experiences with varying levels of sharpness, pitch, and clarity. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a consistently high-pitched sound, both switches provide quality construction and durability for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch which has an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have different bottom out forces, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish having an unknown bottom out force and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring having a bottom out force of 63 grams. This makes the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring the heavier switch in terms of bottom out force. The actuation force of a switch is important as it determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. Lighter switches like the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches like the EverFree (EF) Grayish may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may offer a more substantial feel to those who prefer it. Both switches offer unique advantages, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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, suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. If you prefer a more moderate and versatile sound, the EF Grayish switch would be the better option. However, if you enjoy a more distinct and percussive sound while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the way to go.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as stepped and snappy, offering a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and post-travel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with a prominent amount of tactility. If you prefer a more subtle tactile experience with responsiveness, the EF Grayish switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you seek a more intense and lively tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more to your liking.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a more neutral and moderate sound and feel, making it a solid default tactile option for those looking for versatility and approachability. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a more distinct and intense sound and feel, catering to those who prefer a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement and a more budget-friendly option, the EverFree Grayish may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound when typing, along with a higher level of tactility provided by a unique two-staged spring design, then the Shadow Double Spring switch would be a great fit. Both switches offer a different typing experience that caters to various preferences, so consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and budget.
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