Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch, both offer unique experiences for users. The EF Grayish switches from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand are known for their medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price, making them a solid option for those looking for a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadows linears boast a distinct bounce from their extended spring and a 55g bottom-out, providing a comfortable medium-light typing experience. While the EF Grayish switch caters to those who prefer a tactile typing feel, the Windy Shadow switch offers a smoother, linear 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on both switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that prioritize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature, the aesthetics and design of each switch may differ, offering unique visual appeal to users.
In terms of bottom housing material, the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Windy Shadow both utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the overall typing experience and sound may still vary depending on additional factors such as stem material, spring weight, and plate material used in the construction of the keyboard.
While the top and bottom housings of the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Windy Shadow differ in material, the qualities each housing brings contribute to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This split of housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, blending the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate with the fuller sound produced by nylon to create a unique auditory and tactile feedback for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Windy Shadow is the lighter of the two with a bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the EverFree Grayish's unknown bottom out force. However, when it comes to actuation force, the EverFree Grayish requires 59 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the actuation force of the Windy Shadow is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter feel while typing, the Windy Shadow would be the better choice due to its lower bottom out force. Conversely, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the EverFree Grayish with its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see that the EverFree has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular in the market today, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant enough to make a noticeable difference in performance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar level of responsiveness, making them suitable choices for users who prefer shorter travel distances.
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 Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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 tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users, whether they are beginners or experienced typists. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, which adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing experience. Both switches provide a moderate sound profile, but the Windy Shadow may offer a more distinctive sound with its low-pitched characteristics.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as providing a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactility in each keystroke. This switch also offers a snappy typing experience due to its responsive nature. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable to most users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, but the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch may offer a more dynamic and responsive feel with its stepped design.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch each have their unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, while the Windy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched sound and a mild typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and efficient typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. Choose the EF Grayish if you prefer a switch with no bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile, perfect for a variety of uses and experience levels. On the other hand, opt for the Windy Shadow if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience that falls in the middle ground. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
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