Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Tomcat offer distinct yet appealing experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out as a solid tactile switch that combines a medium weight, a neutral sound signature, and a budget-friendly price, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a responsive feel without excessive noise. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat, with its linear switch design and Ly stems, provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience characterized by a resonant sound profile, appealing to those who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke without tactile bumps. While both switches cater to different types of users—one favoring tactile feedback and the other enjoying fluid key presses—each has its own merits. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Tomcat share a notable similarity in their top housing materials, both composed of polycarbonate. This shared characteristic contributes to a high, crisp, and sharp sound profile, offering a clear and resonant auditory feedback when typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows these switches to enhance clarity, making them excellent choices for those who prefer a more pronounced acoustic experience. Furthermore, both switches are designed with translucency in mind, making them ideal candidates for RGB lighting applications as the polycarbonate allows the light to shine through effectively. Thus, users seeking visually appealing keyboards with dynamic lighting options will find comparable results in both switch models.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Tomcat is made from nylon, which presents a striking contrast to their common polycarbonate tops. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the high frequencies produced by the polycarbonate. While the nylon absorbs some sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience, it also affects the tactile feedback one experiences while typing. This unique combination of materials means that each switch offers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by the balance between the crispness of the polycarbonate top and the softer tones of the nylon bottom.
In summary, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Tomcat utilize the same materials for both their top and bottom housings, the differing qualities imparted by these materials ensure a rich, multifaceted typing experience. The synergistic effect of polycarbonate and nylon results in a clear auditory profile when pressing down on a key (influenced by the bottom housing) and a sharper sound when releasing a key (mainly derived from the top housing). Consequently, despite the different materials used, users can expect a cohesive typing experience where the characteristics of each housing material play off each other to deliver both depth and clarity.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams, while the Tomcat switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out forces, the Tomcat has a measurable bottom out force of 54 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the EverFree (EF) Grayish is unknown. As a result, the Tomcat offers a lighter overall feel, making it potentially more suited for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for lengthy typing sessions or extended gaming. Conversely, the heavier actuation force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch could appeal to those who favor a more substantial tactile feedback and a stronger push sensation while typing. Without the bottom out measurement for the EverFree, it remains unclear how it compares in that aspect, but users seeking a heavier experience might gravitate towards it based on the known actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the EverFree (EF) measuring 3.4 mm and the Tomcat at 3.6 mm. This means that the Tomcat offers a longer travel distance, appealing to users who enjoy a deeper keypress that provides a more substantial feel. In contrast, the EverFree (EF), with its shorter distance, may be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. While both switches offer good performance, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Tomcat offering a more pronounced depth and the EverFree (EF) catering to those who prefer a snappier experience.
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 Tomcat comes in at $2.99 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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is characterized by its neutral sound profile. This means it produces a moderate acoustic signature that makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. With a moderate actuation force requirement, it strikes a balance that caters well to both beginners and more experienced users. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is noted for its resonant sound profile, suggesting a deeper, more pronounced audio experience when typing. This difference in auditory feedback can significantly shape a user's typing experience, especially in shared spaces where sound levels can matter.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish features a stepped tactile response that offers two distinct stages of feedback. This means users will experience a mild tactile bump that feels pronounced yet not overwhelming, facilitating an engaging typing experience without being overly aggressive. Additionally, the snappy nature of this switch enhances the overall responsiveness, making each keystroke feel lively and immediate. On the other hand, the feel of the Tomcat switch is less defined in available descriptions, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares regarding tactile feedback and responsiveness.
Overall, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Bsun Tomcat switches have their unique qualities, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The EverFree excels in providing a balanced auditory and tactile experience, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers seeking versatility. In contrast, the Tomcat offers a potentially more resonant sound but lacks detailed information about its tactile characteristics. Depending on your priorities—whether sound, feel, or a combination of both—you're likely to find options that align closely with your preferences, especially since the acoustic traits of any switch can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap selection.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch boils down to your typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you seek a versatile and balanced switch suitable for various settings, from casual gaming to professional work, the EverFree Grayish would be an excellent choice. Its neutral sound profile and stepped, snappy feel cater well to both beginners and seasoned users without drawing undue attention, making it great for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, linear experience with a bit more tactile feedback, the Bsun Tomcat might be your go-to. With its Ly stems designed for smooth operation and a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat provides an engaging type feel that appeals to typists who enjoy seamless keystrokes. Ultimately, assess your own typing style, the environment in which you plan to use the switch, and whether a tactile feedback or smooth linearity is more appealing to you.
Mentioned in this article
