Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preferences in tactile feedback and sound. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch stands out as an excellent tactile option, thanks to its medium weight and neutral sound signature, making it a versatile choice for both typing and gaming enthusiasts. Its approachable price point further enhances its appeal for newcomers exploring the mechanical keyboard landscape. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch offers a completely different experience, characterized by a deep "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke that delights those who prefer linear switches. Crafted from all-POM materials, the WS POM+ is designed for optimally smooth performance, making it ideal for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing experience. While both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences, they each provide distinct advantages that can greatly enhance your keyboard 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
45g
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ exhibit notable contrasts, particularly in their top housings. The EverFree (EF) Grayish employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality arises from polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to enhanced resonance and clarity, especially suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In stark contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM for its top housing, known for delivering a deeper, more muted sound profile. This difference indicates that a user looking for a more exuberant acoustic experience might prefer the EverFree (EF) Grayish, while those seeking a softer, more subdued response may opt for the WS POM+.
When we examine the bottom housings of these switches, the differences persist, albeit with similar underlying intentions. The EverFree (EF) Grayish features a nylon bottom housing that offers a deeper and fuller sound, stemming from nylon's softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound. Conversely, the WS POM+ also employs POM in its bottom housing, which contributes to its unique, pleasing sound, albeit still on the muted side. Despite both switches leaning towards deeper sound profiles from their bottom housings, the nylon in the EF Grayish adds a roundness that distinguishes it from the relatively muted response of the POM in the WS POM+. This indicates that while both switches provide a rich auditory experience, they do so with different textures and nuances.
Ultimately, the interplay of these materials across the two brands showcases a fascinating amalgam of sound dynamics and tactile feedback. Because the top and bottom housings introduce different acoustic properties, users can expect varied experiences when utilizing each switch. If we were to use the EverFree and the WS POM+ interchangeably, the result would be a unique blend of high-pitched clarity combined with a muted depth. This relationship highlights how the top housing influences the sound during release, while the bottom impacts the bottom-out feel, creating a multifaceted typing experience that can suit personal preferences depending on the selected material properties.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has an actuation force of 59 grams, making it noticeably heavier compared to the WS POM+, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that typists and gamers seeking a lighter key feel for prolonged use may prefer the WS POM+, as its lower actuation force can contribute to less fatigue during extended sessions. In contrast, the heftier actuation of the EverFree can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the bottom out force for the EverFree remains unknown, the WS POM+ has a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. Thus, if one desires a balanced typing experience with a lighter touch, the WS POM+ would be the more suitable option, while the EverFree’s greater actuation force may appeal to users seeking a more robust tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the EverFree has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS POM+ features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive typing experience, the EverFree's shorter travel distance may be more suitable, as it allows for quicker actuation. On the other hand, the WS POM+, with its longer travel distance, might be preferable for those who appreciate a more substantial feel during key presses. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value responsiveness or depth in your switch preference, as both switches offer distinct experiences within the realm of tactile feedback and linear action.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 offers a neutral sound profile, which means it strikes a balance between not being overly loud or too quiet. This moderate sound makes it an excellent choice for various environments, whether you're a beginner or an advanced user, and perfect for both home and workplace settings. On the other hand, the sound signature of the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is noted for its deep, satisfying "thock." The auditory experience provided by the POM+ might provide a more immersive typing experience compared to the more reserved sound of the EF Grayish. However, it's worth noting that the overall sound of each switch can also be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap choices you make.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is characterized by a stepped tactile response, allowing you to sense distinct stages during the keystroke. This feature leads to a typing experience that feels nuanced rather than harsh, complemented by a snappy response that enhances the overall liveliness of each keystroke. The switch's design, often involving longer or dual-staged springs, impacts how quickly you can register your input, making it an engaging option for typists who appreciate responsiveness. The feel of the WS POM+ switch has not been detailed in the provided information, so it’s unclear how its tactile feedback compares.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the EF Grayish presents a neutral sound with a stepped and snappy tactile feel, the WS POM+ stands out with its deeper auditory experience. For those who enjoy a more nuanced typing sensation that balances response with comfort, the EF Grayish shines. Still, the POM+ might cater better to those seeking a luxurious typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, but both can produce satisfying typing experiences when combined with the right setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch hinges on your specific preferences and intended usage. If you're looking for a versatile option that provides a comfortable tactile experience, the EF Grayish is an excellent choice. Its medium weight, neutral sound profile, and stepped tactile feedback make it particularly suitable for both newcomers and seasoned typists alike, whether you’re using it for work or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you desire a smoother, linear feel with a satisfying thock sound, the WS POM+ may be more to your liking. This switch's medium-light actuation force and buttery keystroke make it ideal for those who enjoy rapid typing without the tactile bump that can interrupt flow. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the tactile feedback and versatility of the EF Grayish or the smoothness and sound profile of the WS POM+.
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