Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch. The EF Grayish from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand is known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a great default tactile option. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque feature ingeniously designed stem railings that reduce switch noise without the need for silicone dampeners, offering a unique typing experience that combines tranquility and precision. Each switch has its own strengths - the EF Grayish for its tactile feedback and approachable price, and the WS Silent Linear for its quiet operation and responsiveness. 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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, one noticeable difference is in their top housing materials. The EF Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear opts for a nylon top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the EF Grayish's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting with its translucency, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing focuses on creating a rounder and duller sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of these two switches, both the EF Grayish and the WS Silent Linear feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile, as it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with a focus on a rich and muffled sound profile from both switches.
It's worth noting that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, each housing material brings its unique qualities to the typing experience. In the case of the EF Grayish and the WS Silent Linear, the split between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, resulting in a richer sound profile. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing material. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences for users. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, providing a smoother and easier typing experience compared to the WS Silent Linear, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Silent Linear is heavier with 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial and satisfying typing feel. This makes the WS Silent Linear ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish is better suited for those who like a lighter touch. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preferences, with the WS Silent Linear providing a medium-heavy feel and the EverFree (EF) Grayish offering a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, we can see that the Grayish has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. These small differences may not seem significant, but they can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Grayish, while those who enjoy a more deliberate key press may gravitate towards the longer travel distance of the Silent Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and users. However, the WS Silent Linear switch is further described as having a muted and subdued sound, which minimizes noise typical of mechanical keyboards, providing a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is noted for its stepped and snappy qualities, offering a two-stage tactile experience with responsiveness. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users due to its gentle characteristics. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying tactile experience, with the WS Silent Linear prioritizing a smooth and quiet typing sensation over pronounced tactile feedback.
Considering the available information, while both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer desirable qualities such as a neutral sound profile and a medium weight, they differ in terms of their sound and feel. The EF Grayish switch provides a moderate sound profile and a responsive, stepped tactile experience, whereas the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on reducing noise with a muted and subdued sound, while delivering a gentle and mild typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a medium-weight tactile switch with a neutral sound signature and an affordable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent linear switch that reduces noise without silicone dampeners, offering a responsive and precise typing experience, the WS Silent Linear might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Choose wisely, and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
Mentioned in this article
