Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to tactile versus linear options, each offering a unique typing experience. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch stands out for those who appreciate tactile feedback, featuring a medium weight and a neutral sound profile that enhances typing accuracy without being overly loud. This switch is designed with custom molds and is considered a solid default option, especially for users who enjoy that satisfying bump in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch caters to those who favor a smoother, uninterrupted feel while typing or gaming. Utilizing the latest molds from Huano, it offers a balanced sound profile—providing a pleasing auditory balance that is neither too quiet nor too resonant, making it an attractive choice for users seeking a fluid typing experience. Both switches have their merits, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish appealing to tactile enthusiasts and the Strawberry Latte drawing in linear lovers. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches, the most significant difference in housing materials lies in the top housing composition. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing that enhances its sound profile, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio feedback, ideal for those who prefer a lively typing experience. The transparent nature of polycarbonate also adds an aesthetic appeal, particularly for setups that utilize RGB lighting, allowing light to pass through beautifully. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte incorporates a POK material top housing. Though it offers a different tactile experience, POK is noted for its smoother feel and increased durability, making it suitable for users seeking longevity and a distinct typing sensation. While the tonal qualities differ, both materials aim to enhance user experience through their respective advantages.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, creating a common foundation that contributes to their overall sound profile. Nylon is revered for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller auditory experience with a rounded tone when typing. This shared nylon bottom housing means that both switches exhibit similar sound characteristics in terms of the bottom-out sound, which is primarily influenced by this softer material. Regardless of the top housing differences, the nylon housing ensures that both switches maintain a consistent auditory range when pressed down, leading to a more cohesive typing feel.
In essence, the combination of materials in both switches demonstrates how the individual characteristics of their housings create distinct experiences. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top imparts a brighter, more resonant quality, the Strawberry Latte's POK material is geared towards enhanced smoothness, yet each retains the robust and deeper bottom sound profile from their nylon housing. Therefore, a user can expect both switches to provide satisfying tactile feedback, though each will yield a unique auditory experience influenced by their specific top materials. For enthusiasts seeking to optimize their typing experience, both switches present valuable options, with each material contributing uniquely to the performance and aesthetics of these mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, notable differences emerge. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has an actuation force of 59 grams, which makes it significantly heavier than the Strawberry Latte's lighter actuation force of 35 grams. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the EverFree switch is unavailable, preventing a direct comparison in that regard. However, the Strawberry Latte's bottom out force is 45 grams, indicating that it provides a lighter overall experience due to its lower actuation requirement. Users who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing experience might lean toward the Gateron EverFree switch, while those who appreciate a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming might find the Huano Strawberry Latte more appealing. Overall, the Gateron EverFree is the heavier option, while the Huano Strawberry Latte comes in as the lighter switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, we find that the EF Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Strawberry Latte measures 3.6 mm. This means that the EF Grayish is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that may be preferable for gamers who benefit from quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte's longer travel distance of 3.6 mm offers a more pronounced typing experience, which some users might find more satisfying or less abrupt. Therefore, those seeking rapid response times would likely lean towards the Gateron EverFree, whereas those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may opt for the Huano Strawberry Latte.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte switch, both present a well-balanced auditory experience. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch features a neutral sound signature, which means it is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it versatile for both home and office environments. This quality makes it particularly suitable for users who value subtlety in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte is described as having a balanced sound profile, positioned similarly in terms of volume—neither overly resonant nor excessively muted. This suggests that both switches can offer a pleasant typing atmosphere, depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch stands out with its stepped tactile feedback, providing two distinct stages in the actuation that can be described as mild yet engaging. The snappy responsiveness adds to a lively typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a tactile sensation without overwhelming force. There isn't specific information available regarding the feel of the Strawberry Latte switch, but given its reputation for smoothness, one might expect it to deliver a more linear and consistent typing experience without the tactile bumps characteristic of the EverFree (EF) Grayish.
Considering all these qualities, both switches cater to different preferences while retaining some similarities. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a solid choice for individuals who appreciate tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, making it an excellent option for varied usage scenarios. Conversely, the Huano Strawberry Latte, with its smoothness and balanced acoustic properties, may appeal to those who prefer a more linear feel without the added tactile engagement. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your typing style and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using them. If you prefer a switch that provides a clear yet subtle tactile feedback without being too loud, the EF Grayish is an excellent choice. Its medium weight and neutral sound signature make it ideal for both home and office settings, catering effectively to users ranging from beginners to experienced typists. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smooth and quiet typing experience with a gentle pushback, the Strawberry Latte switch may be more appealing. With its light 45-gram actuation force, you may find it particularly suited for longer typing sessions or gaming environments where rapid key presses are essential. Ultimately, consider whether you prefer tactile feedback or a smoother, linear feel, as well as the context in which you'll use the keyboard, to make the most informed decision for your needs.
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