Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Jwick Taro are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The EF Grayish switch from Gateron's sub-brand, Everfree, is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid default tactile option. On the other hand, the Taro switch by Jwick provides a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and crisp clacks. While both switches fall under the 'Neutral' and 'Stepped' categories, the EF Grayish is described as 'Snappy', while the Taro is labeled as 'Buttery'. These distinctions make them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Jwick Taro, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. As a result, both switches offer similar sound qualities and aesthetic appeal in their top housing material.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Taro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
Overall, despite their different bottom housing materials, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Jwick Taro provide distinct typing experiences based on the qualities each housing material brings to the switch. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate in the top housing or the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon in the bottom housing, these switches offer a unique combination of characteristics that cater to diverse preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the Taro is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the EverFree Grayish is lighter with an actuation force of 59 grams. The actuation force of the Taro is not specified, making it difficult to directly compare to the 59 grams of the EverFree Grayish. The weight of a switch is important as it can impact typing comfort and fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the EverFree Grayish for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Taro with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a slightly shorter key travel, which may be preferred by some who value quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a similar feel, but the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jwick Taro.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Jwick Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making them suitable for a wide range of purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using them at home or in a work environment. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is characterized as having a stepped and snappy tactile feel. Stepped switches provide a two-stage typing experience with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel, while snappy switches offer a highly responsive typing experience thanks to their longer or dual-staged springs. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches are described as having a buttery tactile feel, which implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, as well as a stepped tactile feel similar to the EverFree (EF) Grayish with mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Jwick Taro switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. If you enjoy a switch with medium weight and neutral sound profile, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy feel and a cozy typing experience with acute and crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. However, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience for those looking for tactile switches with moderate actuation force and sound levels.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a reliable and budget-friendly tactile switch with a medium weight and a neutral sound profile, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great choice for you. Its stepped and snappy feel provides a responsive typing experience that many users enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a cozy typing experience with crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch might be more to your liking. The buttery feel of the Taro switch adds to its smooth and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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