Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Wuque Studio WS Red stand out for their unique features. The EF Grayish is a tactile switch known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordability, making it a great default option for those looking for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red is a linear switch with a 22mm double-stage spring that provides a bouncy and responsive typing feel. While it offers a heavier actuation force, it delivers a satisfying and substantial typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic housings. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. However, the EF Grayish's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the WS Red's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Overall, both switches provide unique sound experiences based on their housing materials, with the EF Grayish leaning towards a clear and resonant sound, and the WS Red offering a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the EF Grayish's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, making it a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting. In contrast, the WS Red's opaque nylon top housing may not offer the same visual effect with RGB lighting but provides a classic look that appeals to users who prefer a more traditional design. Despite their differences in appearance, both housing materials serve their purpose in enhancing the overall typing experience by contributing to the sound profile of the switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches differ, they both play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. The softer nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when compared to switches with harder plastic housings. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sharpness and crispness of the sound produced, with the EF Grayish's polycarbonate top housing creating a sharper sound and the WS Red's nylon top housing providing a deeper sound experience. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience for users seeking specific sound profiles and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, which has an unspecified actuation force. On the other hand, the WS Red has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force for the EF Grayish is unknown. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the EF Grayish due to its lighter actuation force, which can be more comfortable for extended periods of typing. Alternatively, users who prefer a more solid and substantial typing feel may lean towards the WS Red with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a shorter travel distance compared to the WS Red. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the EverFree (EF) Grayish with its shorter travel distance, while others who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the WS Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so selecting the right one depends on individual preference.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch's sound signature is not explicitly outlined, so it may offer a different auditory experience. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing sound, but the specifics may vary depending on the overall build and setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is known for its stepped tactile feel, providing a sensation of two distinct stages during each keystroke. This, combined with its snappy response, offers an engaging typing experience that is both responsive and controlled. The Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, with its 22mm double-stage spring, promises a bouncy and reactive typing feel with a heavier actuation force, delivering solidity and precision to each key press. While both switches offer unique tactile feedback, the WS Red linear switch may provide a slightly different typing sensation due to its specific design features.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree Grayish switch presents a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy tactile feel suitable for a variety of typing preferences, while the WS Red switch provides a bouncy typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Depending on your personal preference for typing experience, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable feel with their own unique characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a medium-weight tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a bouncy, responsive typing experience with a familiar sound signature, the WS Red linear switch with its 22mm double-stage spring would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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