Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options catering to different preferences. The EF Grayish offers a tactile experience, with a medium weight and neutral sound signature, making it a great all-around choice for those looking for a tactile typing experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch from TTC is a linear switch known for its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth feel, and buttery typing experience. While the EF Grayish provides a snappy tactile feedback, the Silent Frozen (V2) offers a thocky, low-pitched typing experience with a creamy feel. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs less sound and creates a sharper sound.
The differences between the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) significantly impact the sound profile of these switches. The nylon material of the EverFree (EF) Grayish absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) leads to a crisper and sharper sound due to its stiffness and clear resonant qualities. These contrasting sound profiles offer users a choice between a deeper, fuller typing experience with the EverFree (EF) Grayish or a sharper, more precise sound with the Silent Frozen (V2).
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the Silent Frozen (V2) creating a clear and resonant sound profile or the softer nylon of the EverFree (EF) Grayish offering a deeper and fuller typing experience, users have the opportunity to tailor their switch choice to their preferred sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Frozen (V2) is the lighter option. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has an actuation force of 59 grams, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has a lower actuation force of 39 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Silent Frozen (V2) at 43 grams is still lighter compared to the unknown bottom out force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference in terms of typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Frozen (V2) for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the lighter actuation force of the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a smoother typing experience, while the heavier actuation force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common, the slight difference in travel distance can impact the user experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the EverFree Grayish with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Silent Frozen switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.55.
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 that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments, making it versatile for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that minimizes noise. Depending on personal preferences and the setup of your keyboard, both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different tastes.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the EF Grayish switch is characterized by its stepped and snappy tactile feedback, offering a two-stage tactile experience that is responsive and lively. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch provides a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience that is smooth, effortless, and comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches excel in providing a tactile sensation that enhances the overall typing experience, with the Silent Frozen (V2) switch focusing more on a smooth and fluid feel compared to the more responsive and snappy feel of the EF Grayish switch.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish switch provides a neutral sound with a stepped and snappy feel, while the Silent Frozen (V2) switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound with a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, both switches provide high-quality options that can meet your preferences for a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the kind of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a medium weight switch with neutral sound profile and an approachable price point, the EF Grayish is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize an extremely quiet sound profile, smooth typing experience, and light actuation force, the Silent Frozen (V2) may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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