Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch stands out as an exceptional tactile option, offering a medium weight and a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between comfortable feedback and subtle sound, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a bit of tactile response without excessive noise. Its approachable price point also makes it an excellent choice for newcomers to mechanical keyboards or those seeking a reliable all-around switch. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch caters to enthusiasts who prioritize a smooth typing experience, featuring Ly stems that deliver an exceptionally silky feel with every keystroke and a resonant sound that adds a unique auditory dimension to typing. Ideal for gamers or those who favor quick, uninterrupted keystrokes, the Tomcat switch provides an attractive alternative to traditional tactile options. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on user preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish Tactile

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99

$2.69 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) exhibit interesting similarities and notable contrasts, particularly when comparing their top and bottom housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared characteristic arises from polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. Furthermore, the translucency of this material allows for effective amplification of RGB lighting effects, making both switches desirable for enthusiasts who value aesthetic appeal in their keyboards. As a result, users can expect a similarly vibrant lighting effect, reinforcing the perception of sound through an illuminated chassis.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and Tomcat (Heavy) are made of nylon, which provides a distinct auditory experience. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb sound rather than enhance it, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This use of nylon means that both switches will deliver a more rounded and subdued auditory feedback compared to their top housings, which is essential for creating a balanced typing experience. Since both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, users can anticipate a consistent, richer sound when bottoming out keys across both switch designs.

While the EverFree and Tomcat exhibit similarities in their top housing that lend themselves to a bright sound profile, the differences in how nylon performs in the bottom housing help delineate the overall acoustic character of each switch. In practical terms, this means that users will enjoy a similar bright sound when pressing down the keys while experiencing a fuller, softer sound upon releasing them. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom allows both switches to achieve a unique blend of sound profiles, catering to varied preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Despite potential variations in switch feel, the shared materials ensure that users will have a comparable experience in terms of acoustic dynamics and visual presentation with RGB features.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The EverFree switch has an actuation force of 59 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Tomcat's actuation force of 55 grams. This suggests that users who prefer a lighter feel may find the Tomcat more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the EverFree switch remains unknown, while the Tomcat's bottom out force is rated at 64 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that while the EverFree might provide a softer experience when pressed partially, it potentially lacks the decisive feedback felt when fully bottoming out with the Tomcat. Overall, if you prefer a lighter actuation and a defined bottom out experience, the Tomcat may be the better choice, while the EverFree might appeal to those who favor a moderate push feel without the full commitment of a bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that they differ in length. The EverFree Grayish has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Tomcat Heavy's travel distance measures 3.6 mm, thus offering a deeper press. This difference suggests that the EverFree switch may be more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel, whereas the Tomcat switch might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences regarding tactile feedback and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch features a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced auditory experience. This makes it ideal for various environments, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user looking to type at home or work. Its subtle sound allows for a low-disruption typing experience, accommodating different settings. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is noted for its resonant sound profile, suggesting a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. This difference in sound characteristics indicates that the Tomcat may be more engaging acoustically but could also be more pronounced in noise, depending on your typing style and the environment in which it’s used.

When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped tactile feedback, ensuring that typists experience a distinct bump at the actuation point while feeling a mild pre-travel and post-travel sensation. This design, combined with its snappy responsiveness, creates a lively typing experience that caters well to those who appreciate a tactile response without being overly aggressive. Conversely, the feel profile of the Tomcat (Heavy) is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares in user experience. However, the smoothness offered by its Ly stems is likely to provide a fluid and unbroken keystroke sequence, catering to users who prefer a linear typing experience.

In summary, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound and a tactile feel, making it a versatile choice for various typing environments. Its stepped and snappy nature is great for those who enjoy feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), with its resonant sound and smooth operation, may offer a distinctly different typing character, appealing to those who prioritize auditory feedback and smoothness. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will hinge on individual preferences for sound and tactile response, and you can expect an engaging experience with either option depending on your style.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a tactile typing experience, where you can feel a noticeable bump when actuating a key, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is an excellent choice. It's designed to be a versatile option, making it suitable whether you're a newcomer or a more seasoned typist, and its neutral sound profile ensures it won't be disruptive in shared workspaces or home environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch may be more to your liking. With its heavier actuation force, it offers a different kind of satisfaction, especially for those who enjoy a substantial typing experience and can appreciate a resonant sound profile. Ultimately, consider what’s most important to you in your typing experience—whether you want that tactile feedback and versatility of the EverFree (EF) Grayish, or the smooth, rich experience of the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish Tactile

$2.99

$2.69 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more