Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4 mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options in the tactile switch category. The EF Grayish stands out for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and budget-friendly price point, making it a solid default choice for many users. On the other hand, the U4 boasts a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, offering a unique typing experience with a whisper-quiet sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4, one major distinction is the choice of materials for the top housing. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, known as "boba plastic," which offers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softer composition. While the EverFree's polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, the U4's blend provides a more mellow and rounded tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, another key difference emerges between the two switches. The EverFree (EF) Grayish opts for a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb more sound. Conversely, the U4 features the same proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, providing a rich and deep sound profile akin to its top housing material. Both switches aim to deliver a unique typing experience by leveraging the qualities of their respective bottom housing materials to enhance the overall sound and feel of the switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4 differ in material composition, they both strive to optimize sound profiles and typing experiences for users. The EverFree's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, with the polycarbonate top housing lending clarity and resonance while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness. On the other hand, the U4's use of the proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings emphasizes a rich and deep sound profile throughout typing sessions. Regardless of the specific housing materials used, both switches prioritize delivering a unique and satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the U4 is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the EverFree's 59 grams. The EverFree does not disclose its bottom out force, while the U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience. The actuation force of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sensitivity and responsiveness of keystrokes, while the bottom out force indicates the amount of pressure needed to fully depress a key. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Gazzew U4, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gateron EverFree. Ultimately, the decision will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the U4's 3.6 mm. The EverFree (EF) Grayish with its shorter travel distance may appeal more to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the U4's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most traditional and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and 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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced typists, and for various settings such as at home or in the office. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, making it whisper quiet and ideal for those looking to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The choice of board and keycaps can also play a role in the overall sound of each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a stepped feel with a mild tactile feedback that provides a responsive typing experience. The switch has a snappy quality to it, making each keystroke feel more alive. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch provides a sharp tactile bump that is intense and distinct with each press. This sharpness gives typists a pronounced tactile feedback during use.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches, it is evident that they offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EF Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile with a stepped and snappy feel, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the U4 switch offers a muted, low-pitched sound with a sharp tactile bump, providing a quiet typing experience with intense tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both switches are crafted to provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a default tactile option with a medium weight and neutral sound profile, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and more plush typing experience with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 switch would be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches, as they offer unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and needs to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
