Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both stand out as excellent tactile options. The EF Grayish switch, with its custom molds, medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, is a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile tactile switch. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a medium tactility, light touch, and balanced typing experience, making it a "Goldilocks" option for users seeking a tactile switch with just the right amount of feedback. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches with polycarbonate top housings will showcase their RGB lighting beautifully. However, the difference between the nylon bottom housings of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro lies in the sound produced. The deeper and fuller sound profile of the nylon bottom housing in both switches allows for a more muted and rounder sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This creates a unique typing experience that sets it apart from switches with different bottom housing materials. While the top and bottom housing materials influence the sound profile differently, they both play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience of the switch.
Ultimately, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housing materials create distinct typing experiences. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to their sharp and clear sound profile, perfect for RGB lighting. However, it is the softer nylon bottom housing in both switches that sets them apart, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more noise. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a more muted typing experience, these housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall feel and sound of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Violet Gold Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the EverFree Grayish's 59 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is hard to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the EverFree Grayish provides a higher actuation force for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing weight and feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may provide a slightly faster response due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro may offer a more substantial keypress feel with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer similar experiences with slight differences in travel distance that may cater to individual preferences.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer a neutral sound profile. This means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both switches are described as having a stepped tactile feel. This means that they provide feedback in two stages, with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is noted for being snappy, offering a responsive typing experience. This responsiveness can be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs in the switch mechanism.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feel, making them versatile options for a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the specific feeling each switch provides during typing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with medium tactility and a neutral sound signature, the EF Grayish is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light touch with medium tactility and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro may be more suitable for you. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their neutral sound profile, but the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and actuation force. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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