Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish is hailed for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordability, making it an excellent default tactile option. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. While the EF Grayish is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Snappy', the Vanilla Ice Cream is described as 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', and 'Resonant'. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary KTT blend top housing that provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the EverFree (EF) Grayish focuses on clarity and resonance, while the KTT blend of the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes a more vivid and dynamic sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the EverFree (EF) Grayish's nylon bottom housing and the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing are pronounced. Nylon, as used in the EverFree (EF) Grayish, tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream's bottom housing boasts exceptional durability and smoothness, offering a clacky sound and strong wear resistance. These differences in bottom housing materials demonstrate how they can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, with nylon providing a more rounded sound and POK delivering a smoother and more durable typing experience.
While the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the qualities brought by each material still distinguish the switches' overall sound profiles. The impact of the bottom housing material can be felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish emphasizing clarity and resonance, and the Vanilla Ice Cream focusing on a dynamic and clacky sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Vanilla Ice Cream is the lighter of the two switches. The EverFree Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams, making it require more force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Vanilla Ice Cream at 48 grams is heavier than the bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish, which is unspecified. This means that while the EverFree Grayish may require more force to actuate, it may not bottom out as heavily as the Vanilla Ice Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with lighter switches being better for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Vanilla Ice Cream being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish for faster response times, while those who prefer a more significant depth in their keystrokes may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing users with a responsive typing 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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 most intents and purposes, making it a versatile option for various settings. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch produces a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from the competition, providing typists with a unique auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a moderate and neutral sound or a sharper and more distinct sound when deciding between these two switches.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is characterized as a stepped switch, offering a tactile experience with two stages that provide a mild feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, it is described as snappy, meaning it is super responsive and lively during typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Typists can enjoy a silky sensation while typing, as the keys effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Depending on the typing experience users are looking for, they can choose between a snappy and stepped tactile feel or a smooth and buttery linear feel with these switches.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offer contrasting but unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy tactile feel, making it a versatile and responsive option for users. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch delivers a high-pitched, clacky sound signature and a buttery, creamy feel, offering typists a smooth and distinct typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup with different auditory and tactile experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it all boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-weight, neutral sound signature with an approachable price point, then the EF Grayish may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light bottom out force, a smooth and creamy feel, and a high-pitched, clacky sound signature, then the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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