Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Durock White Lotus are both tactile switches that offer unique features catering to different preferences. The EF Grayish is known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price, making it a solid default tactile option. On the other hand, the White Lotus stands out with its delicate tactility, perfect for long typing sessions, and the added bonus of customizable RGB lighting effects. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the EF Grayish leans towards a neutral and snappy feel, while the White Lotus offers a more subtle and low-pitched typing experience. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Durock White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting, making it ideal for those who want to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. On the other hand, the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a unique and premium feel, although it may not provide the same sharp and crisp sound profile as polycarbonate.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock White Lotus feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound quality when typing. Since both switches share the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the EverFree (EF) Grayish or the White Lotus.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock White Lotus play a significant role in the sound profile and feel of each switch. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish excels in providing a sharp and resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the White Lotus offers a unique and premium feel with its modified PC & UPE Blend top housing. Both switches share nylon bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are notable differences. The EverFree Grayish has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the White Lotus's lighter 46-gram actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the White Lotus is heavier at 56 grams compared to the EverFree Grayish, which has an unknown bottom out force. The EverFree Grayish provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force, while the White Lotus offers a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier key press.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Durock White Lotus has a longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish. The White Lotus falls within the traditional range of travel distances, while the EverFree Grayish is slightly shorter. Gamers may lean towards the EverFree Grayish for its faster response time with its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the Durock White Lotus for its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile feedback despite their travel distance difference, which may still provide a similar typing experience overall.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch is noted for its low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. While both switches fall under the category of neutral in terms of sound profile, the White Lotus may offer a slightly different auditory experience with its emphasis on a lower pitch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a stepped and snappy tactile feel. This means that users may feel distinct stages in the keystroke, along with a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. Additionally, the White Lotus switch is described as providing a mild and subtle tactile experience, with a light typing feel that may reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may provide a more pronounced tactile sensation compared to the White Lotus.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch and the Durock White Lotus switch each have their own unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch leans towards a neutral sound profile with a stepped and snappy tactile feel, while the White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, mild tactile experience. Depending on your preferences in sound and typing feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different nuances. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish or the Durock White Lotus, you can expect a high-quality tactile switch that enhances your overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you are looking for a medium weight tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and an affordable price point, the EF Grayish may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a delicate tactility, vibrant RGB lighting effects, and a low-pitched sound profile, the White Lotus could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences, budget, and desired typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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