Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4Tx mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile options have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish is praised for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a great default tactile option. On the other hand, the U4Tx combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out, providing a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump. 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
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The EF Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound when typing. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the EF Grayish caters more towards a clear and sharp sound, while the Gazzew blend top housing offers a deeper and richer tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon material used in the EF Grayish provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone when typing on switches that use it. The Gazzew blend bottom housing, like its top housing counterpart, offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the nylon bottom housing of the EF Grayish offers a more rounded sound, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx provides a deeper and richer tone.
Overall, while the housing materials of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of polycarbonate and nylon versus the proprietary Gazzew blend, they both aim to create unique and high-quality sound profiles for mechanical keyboard switches. The polycarbonate and nylon materials of the EF Grayish offer a sharper and deeper sound profile, while the Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the U4Tx provide a rich and deep tone. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent sound options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, catering to different preferences when it comes to typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see that the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the U4Tx, which does not provide a specific number for its actuation force. However, the U4Tx has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, whereas the EverFree (EF) Grayish does not specify its bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the EverFree (EF) Grayish, which would be ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gazzew U4Tx with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the EF Grayish. While both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, the U4Tx offers a slightly deeper keypress experience. Gamers may appreciate the U4Tx for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more substantial feel during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those looking for quick response times and a lighter touch may prefer the EF Grayish with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 U4Tx 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offers a neutral and moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a bassy and muted sound that is deeper and richer, yet softer and quieter compared to the typical mechanical switch. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound characteristics, as well as additional factors like keyboard frame and keycap material.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is noted for its stepped feel, providing a mild tactile experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, it is described as snappy, ensuring a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is characterized as sharp, offering a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. Again, the decision between the two would come down to individual preference for tactile feedback and keypress response.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EF Grayish provides a neutral sound with a stepped and snappy tactile feel, the U4Tx offers a bassy and muted sound along with a sharp tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so determining which one is the best fit would depend on individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience desired. Ultimately, whether you choose the EF Grayish or U4Tx, you can expect to receive a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force and a neutral sound signature, the EF Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a bassy and muted sound profile, and a sharp tactile bump, the U4Tx may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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