Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, you have two distinct options to consider. The EF Grayish switch stands out as a fantastic tactile option, offering a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an affordable price point. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch provides a unique experience with its Creamsicle color, rich sound profile, and distinct gliding feel thanks to the Ly stem and factory lube method. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences, but ultimately the decision comes down to personal preference. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles. The EverFree (EF) Grayish uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow utilizes a POM top housing, leading to a deeper and more muted sound. While the polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the POM top housing offers a different aesthetic appeal. Both materials bring different characteristics to the overall sound experience of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housings, the EverFree (EF) Grayish features a nylon bottom housing, while the Sunset Yellow opts for a POM bottom housing. Nylon bottom housings are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing in the Sunset Yellow also produces a deep and muted sound profile. Despite the slight variations in sound, both bottom housing materials contribute to a more rounded and dull sound in comparison to the sharper top housing profiles.
Overall, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Everglide Sunset Yellow may utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. The choice between polycarbonate and POM top housings, as well as nylon and POM bottom housings, will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. Both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience, with subtle differences in the sound and feel based on the housing materials used.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch reveals some noticeable differences. The EverFree Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Sunset Yellow's lighter 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom-out force, the Sunset Yellow requires 51 grams, while the EverFree Grayish force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sunset Yellow switch due to its lower actuation force, which can reduce fatigue during extended use. In contrast, users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel may opt for the EverFree Grayish despite its unknown bottom-out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is longer than the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch's 3.2 mm travel distance. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the EverFree Grayish offers slightly more key travel for those who prefer a deeper press. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key travel depth. If you prioritize a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, the EverFree Grayish may be the better option. In contrast, if you value a shorter travel distance for increased responsiveness, the Sunset Yellow could be the more suitable choice.
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 Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch provides a deep and rich bassy sound, creating a more indulgent typing experience akin to mahjong tiles colliding. The Sunset Yellow switch also offers a thocky sound, characterized by a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycap material chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped tactile sensation, providing a more subtle and mild tactile experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Additionally, the Grayish switch is described as snappy, giving it a super responsive and lively typing feel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation as if gliding effortlessly across the keys. The polished finish of the Sunset Yellow switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, making it a versatile choice for various users and environments. Meanwhile, the Sunset Yellow switch boasts a bassy, thocky sound and a creamy, frictionless feel, offering a more indulgent and smooth typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force, the EF Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a rich, bassy sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Sunset Yellow switch could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so be sure to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and desired sound profile.
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