Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it's easy to see the similarities and differences between the two. The EF Grayish is lauded for its medium weight and snappy tactile feedback, making it a reliable option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion is praised for its buttery smooth keystroke feel and polished sound profile, offering a more seamless and refined typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments. 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
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the unique design and construction of each switch can still result in variations in sound and feel.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish features a nylon bottom housing while the Wuque Studio WS Onion also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is softer and absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can affect the overall typing experience. Despite both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Onion utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the unique design and construction of each switch can still lead to differences in sound and feel. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users make informed decisions when selecting a switch that best suits their preferences and needs.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the EF Grayish has no specified bottom out force, while the WS Onion has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the EF Grayish may provide a lighter typing experience overall, while the WS Onion may offer a more substantial push feel. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences. The lighter actuation force of the EF Grayish may be preferred for longer typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the WS Onion may appeal to those seeking a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we can see that the EverFree has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS Onion has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the EverFree the shorter option and the WS Onion the longer option. The EverFree's 3.4 mm travel distance might appeal to those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers, while the WS Onion's 4 mm travel distance might provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their respective travel distances, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and keypress comfort.
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 Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer a neutral profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes for both beginners and advanced users. The sound output of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switches provide a stepped tactile feedback and a snappy response, giving users a subtle bump during keystrokes and a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches give a buttery smooth keystroke feel, offering a seamless and polished typing sensation that is deeply satisfying and effortless.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a moderate sound profile with a tactile bump or a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, both switches provide an enjoyable typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel with these switches, ultimately making them solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium weight and neutral sound profile, the EF Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth and responsive linear switch with a buttery feel and polished finish, the WS Onion could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to test them out and see which one resonates with you the most.
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