Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring mechanical keyboard switches, both offer tactile feedback but with distinct characteristics. The EF Grayish from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable tactile switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, offering a different tactile experience with a deep and thocky sound profile. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for the switches to be translucent, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish differs in its choice of nylon for the bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorption of sound by the softer plastic. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout the switch.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both switches have a commonality in their top housing material, resulting in similar sound profiles when typing on them. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a resonant and clear sound that is ideal for those looking for a sharper typing experience. However, the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the sound profile of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are felt differently depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish will contribute to a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound profile. Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a higher force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is unknown. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium-light typing experience, whereas the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch may potentially offer a lighter typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch being more suitable for those who prefer a lighter actuation force and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch being ideal for those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish can provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred option for gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may offer a more substantial feel when typing, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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) Single 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) Single 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
When it comes to sound, the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a deep and thocky sound, which may appeal to those looking for a more distinctive auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is characterized by its stepped and snappy tactile feedback, offering a unique typing sensation with two distinct stages. This can provide a more controlled and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback that may enhance the typing experience with a lively rebound when keys are pressed.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and snappy feel, or a deep thocky sound and bouncy feedback, each switch provides its own set of subjective qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve similar results with either switch by carefully selecting the accompanying components of your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should keep in mind the key characteristics of each switch. The EF Grayish is a great option if you are looking for a more neutral sound profile and prefer a stepped and snappy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Shadow Ink Single Spring switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile along with a bouncy tactile feel. Ultimately, if you prioritize a medium weight tactile switch with a neutral sound and responsive feel, the EF Grayish may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a switch with a deeper sound and bouncy feel, the Shadow Ink Single Spring switch would be the more suitable option for your keyboard setup. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best fits your preferences and typing style.
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