Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, particularly between tactile and linear switches. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out as an exceptional tactile option, offering a balanced typing experience with its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and approachable price point. Its design, featuring custom molds, ensures a reliable and enjoyable tactile feedback during every keystroke, making it ideal for typists who appreciate noticeable actuation without excessive noise. On the contrary, the Bsun Taichi provides a completely different experience with its linear switch design, characterized by its long-pole stem and extended springs that contribute to an exceptionally smooth and stable feel. Known for the enchanting high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, the Taichi is perfect for gamers or those who prefer a fluid keypress without tactile bumps. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a tactile experience that many users adore, the Bsun Taichi appeals to those seeking seamless keystrokes. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Taichi both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which is a material renowned for its characteristics that enhance the auditory experience of typing. The use of polycarbonate in both switches contributes to a higher-pitched, sharper, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the material's inherent stiffness, which allows for clearer resonance when the switch is actuated. Both switches also benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for configurations that involve RGB lighting. Users can expect a similar luminous effect from both switches when illuminated, adding a visually appealing aspect to their keyboard setups.
When we delve deeper into the bottom housing compositions, the EverFree (EF) Grayish and Bsun Taichi share another commonality: both employ nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for producing a sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. This means that the bottom housing plays an essential role in the overall sound character of the switches, contributing to the plush feel users experience when bottoming out. As a result, both switches will provide a gratifying typing experience with a satisfying sound that many typists and gamers enjoy.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and Bsun Taichi may differ in their contributions to the switch's overall profile and acoustic signature, the results may yield a complementary experience. The stiffer polycarbonate tops create a sharp sound on release, while the softer nylon bottoms yield a deeper sound upon actuation, allowing users to appreciate the tonal diversity that each housing material brings. Thus, even with the differences in the bottom housings, users of both switches can expect a balanced integration of sound characteristics, resulting in an engaging and versatile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, distinct differences in actuation force are evident. The EverFree switch requires an actuation force of 59 grams, making it significantly heavier than the Taichi, which has an actuation force of only 40 grams. This difference indicates that the Taichi switch would be more suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, whereas the EverFree might appeal to individuals who enjoy a stronger, more substantial tactile feedback while typing. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, which means we cannot assess how they compare in that regard. Nevertheless, the lighter Taichi switch would likely allow for a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier EverFree switch might provide a more deliberate press, catering to those who favor a firmer feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the EverFree switch provides a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers and those who prioritize quick key presses. On the other hand, the Taichi switch, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced tactile experience that some users may prefer for a more substantial depth when typing. Ultimately, if you value quick response times, the Gateron EverFree is the better option, while the Bsun Taichi may suit those who enjoy a deeper key 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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch features a neutral sound signature that strikes a balance between moderate actuation force and sound production, making it versatile for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or seasoned typists. This neutral characteristic allows it to function well both at home and in office settings without being overly loud or distracting. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is designed to produce a distinct high-pitched bottom-out sound, attributed to its long-pole stem and unique spring configuration. This makes the Taichi potentially more noticeable when typing, especially in quiet environments, where its sound can carry and create more of a pronounced auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped tactile response with a snappy action, providing a clear tactile feedback across two stages of the keystroke. This results in a typing experience that is not only responsive but also allows for a nuanced interaction that can help typists gauge their keystrokes more effectively. The inclusion of longer or dual-staged springs contributes to this lively feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. The Bsun Taichi switch, being linear, does not provide a tactile bump, resulting in a smoother and potentially more fluid feel during key presses. While both switches have distinct appeals in their tactile experience, the EverFree emphasizes feedback and response, whereas the Taichi focuses on smoothness and stability throughout the key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch presents a versatile option for those who appreciate a balanced sound and a tactile response, making it a solid choice for both everyday use and specialized typing tasks. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switch caters to users seeking smoothness and a unique auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a quieter yet distinct typing sound. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches could cater to similar typing experiences, albeit through different approaches—one through its pleasing neutrality and tactile feedback, and the other through a smooth and pronounced auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're looking for a versatile, user-friendly option that balances responsiveness with a soft tactile bump, the EF Grayish is a great choice. Its neutral sound profile and stepped feel make it suitable for both beginners and seasoned typists, whether at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth keystrokes accompanied by a unique auditory experience, the Bsun Taichi could be your ideal match. Its long-pole design and carefully engineered components promise an enchanting sound and seamless typing, perfect for those who enjoy a more fluid linear experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your specific needs—be it the tactile feedback of the EF Grayish or the alluring smoothness of the Taichi.
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