Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the TTC Yunhai stand out for their distinct characteristics and typing experiences. The EF Grayish, a tactile switch, is crafted using custom molds by Gateron’s sub-brand Everfree and is celebrated as a superb default option for those who appreciate a medium weight feel and a neutral sound signature. With its "neutral," "stepped," and "snappy" categorizations, it caters to typists seeking a balanced feedback experience without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai offers a linear switch experience characterized by an incredibly light actuation force and a deep, rounded sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a gentle, effortless typing sensation. This switch excels in providing a smooth and consistent keypress, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. Each switch has its unique advantages, tailoring to different preferences in tactile feedback and sound. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and TTC Yunhai switches present an interesting comparison of housing materials, particularly in their top housings which significantly impact the sound profile of each switch. The EverFree utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer properties that contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's translucency not only enhances the aesthetic appeal when paired with RGB lighting but also allows for a more pronounced sound resonance. In contrast, the Yunhai features a nylon top housing, a material that is softer and tends to absorb more sound. As a result, the sound profile with nylon is generally deeper and fuller, creating a rounder and less sharp auditory experience. These differences in top housing materials highlight two distinct auditory experiences based on their respective properties.
When we shift our focus to the bottom housings of both switches, we find a notable similarity. Both the EverFree and Yunhai switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller typing sound due to the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon. This shared material leads to a consistent bottom-out sound across both switches, meaning that the overall tactile feel when pressing the key and the auditory feedback produced during the keypress will be similar. While the EverFree's top housing contributes to a sharper release sound, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that the bottoming sound retains that characteristic deeper resonance, providing a cohesive auditory experience.
In summary, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and TTC Yunhai switches differ in their top housing materials—one being polycarbonate and the other nylon—they converge in their bottom housing composition, both utilizing nylon to create a fuller sound profile. The resulting impact on the overall typing experience is a blend of distinct characteristics: the sharper sound from the EverFree’s polycarbonate top and the deeper tone from both switches’ nylon bottoms. Consequently, users may appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and feel that arise from the varied top housing while enjoying the common qualities imparted by the nylon below. Overall, this analysis illustrates just how the interplay of materials can affect both sound and tactile feedback in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, distinct differences in their actuation forces are evident. The EverFree switch requires an actuation force of 59 grams, making it notably heavier than the Yunhai's actuation force of just 42 grams. This difference means that those who favor a more tactile and substantial typing experience may prefer the EverFree switch, while those looking for a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Yunhai switch. Additionally, the EverFree's bottom out force remains unknown, while the Yunhai's is recorded at 50 grams. Thus, while the EverFree offers a heavier push, the lightweight characteristic of the Yunhai switch makes it better suited for those who prioritize comfort over prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, it is evident that the EverFree has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yunhai measures 3.6 mm. This means that the EverFree will provide a snappier response, appealing to gamers or users who favor quick action and responsiveness in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Yunhai, with its slightly longer travel distance, may deliver a more substantial and satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 switch offers a neutral sound signature that makes it quite versatile. It strikes a balance between moderate actuation force and a sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of environments, whether for home use or in a professional setting. This neutrality allows it to blend seamlessly into both casual and formal typing experiences. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch features a deep, rounded sound that is notably unique. While the specifics of its overall sound profile aren't provided, its gentle actuation likely contributes to a sound that is less jarring and more soothing, appealing to users who prefer a quiet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its stepped and snappy characteristics. The stepped tactile nature gives it a subtle yet noticeable sensation as you progress through the keypress, allowing for a rich typing experience that feels both engaging and controlled. Additionally, the snappy responsiveness adds an element of dynamism, making typing feel lively and precise. The TTC Yunhai switch, on the other hand, is known for its incredibly light actuation force, resulting in a typing experience that is effortless. Without specific descriptors for the feel, one can only surmise that while the Yunhai provides a smoother, linear response, the EverFree delivers a tactile feedback that's more distinctive and alive.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, offering distinct sensory experiences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish appeals to users who seek a balanced, tactile option suitable for varied environments, while the TTC Yunhai draws in those who favor a light, smooth typing experience with a unique sound profile. Depending on your typing style and preferences, you may find joy in either option, as they each embody different qualities that contribute to the mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a tactile feedback that allows for a more engaged typing experience, and you're looking for a switch that strikes a balance between responsive and smooth, the EF Grayish would serve you well. Its stepped and snappy characteristics make it ideal for a diverse range of applications, from casual typing to more intense coding sessions, all while maintaining a neutral sound profile that keeps distractions at bay. On the other hand, if you favor a light and fluid typing experience, the TTC Yunhai, with its notably light actuation force, is tailored for you. This switch excels in providing an effortless keystroke, making it perfect for long writing sessions or gaming marathons where speed is essential and noise levels need to be minimized. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a seamless linear feel, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard perfectly matches your typing style.
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