Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Type L are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and needs. The EF Grayish is a tactile switch known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L is a linear switch that is part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offering a light actuation force of 45g and a deeper sound profile for a smooth and effortless typing experience. While both switches share a 'neutral' categorization, they differ in their feel and sound, with the EF Grayish leaning towards a 'stepped' and 'snappy' feel, while the Type L is described as 'subdued', 'feathery', and 'easy-to-press'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Type L use nylon for their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the EF Grayish's top housing creates a more resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Type L's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the EF Grayish.
The differences in housing materials between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Type L extend beyond just the sound profile they produce. The EF Grayish's polycarbonate top housing not only affects the sound when a key is released but also adds a visually appealing element with its clear translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of aesthetic enhancement, but it does provide a more muted and absorbing sound experience. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound, but the EF Grayish's polycarbonate top housing sets it apart in terms of sound clarity and resonance.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gateron Type L showcases the importance of material selection in determining the sound profile and tactile experience of a keyboard switch. While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the EF Grayish's addition of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a distinct auditory and visual experience. The EF Grayish's stiffer polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper, crisper sound profile, particularly enhanced by RGB lighting, while the Type L's nylon top housing offers a softer and more absorbing sound quality. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on a switch can help users make more informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Type L is the lighter option of the two. The Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams, which is lighter than the 59 grams required for the EverFree Grayish. Additionally, the Type L has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is again lighter than the unknown bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Type L may be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the EverFree Grayish may be more suitable. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the EverFree Grayish providing a heavier feel compared to the lighter Type L. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Type L's 4 mm. The 3.4 mm travel distance of the EF Grayish offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast reaction speeds. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Type L provides a deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means they have a moderate sound signature that is suitable for a variety of environments and uses. The Type L switch, however, adds an additional quality of being subdued, which produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle acoustic experience compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by your keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is noted for its stepped feel, which refers to a tactile switch with two distinct stages in its keystroke. This results in a more mild tactile feedback compared to hyper-tactile switches, providing a unique typing experience. Additionally, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as snappy, meaning it is super responsive and lively due to longer or dual-staged springs. On the other hand, the Type L switch offers a feathery feel, being exceptionally light to press and requiring minimal finger exertion. This reduces finger fatigue and makes typing comfortable for extended periods, whether for gaming, school, or work. The Type L switch is also classified as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses for a low-impact and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch share a neutral sound profile, they differ in their tactile feel. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped and snappy typing experience, offering a unique tactile feedback, while the Type L switch delivers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, making it comfortable and responsive for extended typing sessions. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound with both switches, but experience distinct tactile sensations that cater to different typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light actuation force, a sound signature that veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, and a focus on reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Type L linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider your typing needs and preferences before making a decision.
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