Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. The EF Grayish is renowned for its medium weight, neutral sound profile, and affordability, making it a solid choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a delicate typing experience with its crisp sound profile, making it ideal for long typing sessions. Both switches fall under the 'Neutral' category, but the EF Grayish is described as 'Stepped' and 'Snappy', while the Yanyu is labeled as 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. 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
43g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Yanyu, one noticeable difference is the use of polycarbonate in the EverFree Grayish's top housing compared to the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in the Yanyu. Polycarbonate is touted for its stiffness, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the blend used in the Yanyu offers a pleasant but brighter sound. Additionally, the EverFree Grayish's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound. Conversely, the Yanyu's blend in the bottom housing also contributes to a unique sound profile that leans towards brightness.
Although both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, they also share similarities in their housing components. For instance, the EverFree Grayish's top housing uses polycarbonate for its clearer and resonant sound, while the Yanyu's blend delivers a pleasant and unique sound profile. Both switches showcase the importance of housing material in creating distinct auditory experiences for users. Each material works in tandem with the other to provide a satisfying typing experience, whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the EverFree Grayish or the pleasant brightness of the Yanyu's blend.
The impact of housing materials on sound is further emphasized by how the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing, as seen in the EverFree Grayish's nylon and the Yanyu's blend, affects the bottom-out sound and feel, with nylon offering a deeper, fuller sound and the blend providing a unique, brighter profile. On the other hand, the top housing, such as the polycarbonate in the EverFree Grayish and the Yanyu's blend, influences the sound as keys are released, highlighting the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, the EverFree Grayish has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Yanyu's unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Yanyu, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the EverFree Grayish may appeal to users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for a variety of preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. The EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster keypress feedback. In contrast, the Yanyu switch provides a slightly deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance, which may be more satisfying for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their respective travel distances, catering to different preferences among keyboard users.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 and the SP-Star Yanyu switches share a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of settings and users. However, the Yanyu switch also offers a unique "thocky" sound, providing a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound of the switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard structure and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as having a stepped and snappy tactile feedback, offering a distinctive typing sensation with its two-stage feel and responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished tactile experience, giving users a gentle and smooth typing feel with reduced fatigue and enhanced comfort for extended use. Both switches cater to users who prefer different tactile characteristics, allowing for a personalized typing experience based on individual preferences.
Overall, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, their neutral sound profiles make them versatile options for various users who prioritize a balanced typing experience. Whether you choose the EF Grayish for its stepped and snappy feedback or the Yanyu for its mild and polished feel, both switches provide excellent tactile responses tailored to different preferences. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience that suits a wide range of applications.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the following factors. You may want to opt for the EverFree Grayish if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a tactile switch with a medium weight, making it suitable for a variety of typing situations. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light linear switch with a crisp sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the Yanyu may be the better choice, especially if you tend to type for long periods of time. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, so it's important to assess your own preferences and typing needs before making a decision.
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