Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g each offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out as an exemplary tactile switch, designed with custom molds to provide a satisfying typing experience characterized by its moderate weight, neutral sound, and responsive feedback. This makes it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a tactile bump without overwhelming noise, all offered at a budget-friendly price. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g excels in delivering a virtually silent, linear switch experience, making it particularly suitable for users who desire a quiet and serene workspace. With its ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, it caters to light typists who enjoy smooth key presses without the interruption of audible clicks. Both switches have their unique strengths, appealing to different types of users; 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
37g
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
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, one notable distinction arises from their top housing compositions. The EverFree features a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for imparting sharper and crisper sound profiles due to its stiffer makeup. This quality not only enhances the auditory experience but also allows for superior light transmission in RGB setups, making the key switch visually striking. Conversely, the Silent Sakura utilizes a nylon top housing, which is traditionally associated with producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a more muted response that caters to users seeking a less obtrusive auditory experience when typing. Thus, while the EverFree aims for a resonant clarity, the Silent Sakura leans towards a rounder, more subdued sound.
In terms of bottom housing, the EverFree contradicts the composition of its top housing by employing a nylon bottom, while the Silent Sakura opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. This reversal has significant implications on the auditory characteristics of both switches. With the EverFree's nylon bottom, the deeper sounds generated contribute to a fuller typing experience, complementing the sharper tones from its polycarbonate top. In contrast, the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom delivers a crisper feel and sound that fools the expectations set by its nylon top. Consequently, typing on both switches will yield different auditory outcomes, showcasing how the bottom housing's material can influence the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel, regardless of the contrasting top housing materials.
Ultimately, while the Gateron EverFree and Silent Sakura switches showcase different materials in their housings, they offer paths to achieve fulfilling auditory experiences in distinct ways. Users fond of deeper sounds may gravitate towards the EverFree, appreciating the combination of its nylon bottom with the sharper polycarbonate top. Alternatively, those seeking a balanced typing experience can appreciate the Silent Sakura's melding of nylon warmth with polycarbonate clarity. Even as they exhibit contrasting material choices, both switches can cater to varied user preferences. By understanding how each material affects sound and feel, one can expect complementary typing experiences that resonate with their desired outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a significantly heavier actuation force of 59 grams, while the Silent Sakura - 43g features a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This difference suggests that the Silent Sakura is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the EverFree may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Regarding bottom out forces, while the Silent Sakura's force is known at 43 grams, the bottom out force for the EverFree remains unspecified. Therefore, if one seeks a switch that offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with a potentially firmer feel, the EverFree may be the right choice. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the EverFree is the heavier one.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a notable difference in their specifications. The EverFree switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent Sakura switch boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the EverFree offers a shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times, making it more suitable for gamers who prioritize quick actuation. Conversely, the Silent Sakura with its 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences: the shorter EverFree is geared toward responsiveness, whereas the longer Silent Sakura caters to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g 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
When it comes to sound, the EverFree (EF) Grayish boasts a neutral sound profile, making it an adaptable choice for various environments. This balanced acoustics lends itself well to both home and office settings, providing a pleasant typing experience without drawing too much attention. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g has been engineered for a whisper-quiet experience, promising a typing sound akin to gentle raindrops. This makes it particularly appealing to those who prioritize a serene and unobtrusive environment while typing. Both switches showcase distinct auditory characteristics, so the choice will primarily depend on your need for either a neutral or a near-silent experience.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish features a stepped tactile response that provides a clear distinction in keypress stages, making every keystroke notable without being overly pronounced. This can make typing feel more deliberate and engaging, with a snappy responsiveness that adds to the overall experience. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g is linear, which typically means it has a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. Although the specific characteristics of the Silent Sakura's feel are not delineated, its ultra-light 43g actuation force would suggest a very fluid typing experience suited for light typists. Thus, users seeking tactile feedback versus a seamless transition will find these switches suited to very different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to distinct typing experiences. The EverFree offers a balanced sound profile and a snappy, stepped tactile feel, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy feedback during typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura emphasizes a quiet and smooth operation, perfect for environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual typing preferences, whether one prefers tactile feedback and neutrality or a smooth and silent experience. Each switch is crafted to offer a unique feel and sound, ensuring users can find the right fit for their specific needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy tactile feedback while typing, the EverFree Grayish may be your go-to option, especially with its snappy and stepped feel that provides a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud. It’s a versatile switch suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, making it ideal for everyday use at home or in the office. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for just that, with its ultra-light weight and gentle sound profile reminiscent of rain. This switch excels in environments where noise needs to be minimized, perfect for office settings or shared spaces. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the need for tactile feedback versus smoothness, and the sound level of your workspace when deciding which switch will best meet your needs.
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