Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is important to note their distinct characteristics. The Akashi stands out for its smooth tactile feedback achieved through a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switch is praised for its custom molds that deliver a medium weight feel, neutral sound signature, and affordable price. While the Akashi offers a unique and resonant typing experience, the EF Grayish provides a solid default tactile option. 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
37g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Despite their differences, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature.
While the top housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish differ in their sound profiles, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deep and full sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This shared housing material emphasizes the importance of the bottom housing in impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, highlighting the role it plays in the overall typing experience. Despite variations in the top housing materials, the bottom housing's qualities remain consistent between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. The differences in top housing materials, such as POM and polycarbonate, result in distinct sound profiles, with POM creating a deeper and more muted sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. However, the shared nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile, showcasing the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience. Whether using the Akashi or the EverFree (EF) Grayish, the housing materials contribute unique characteristics that make each switch stand out in its own way.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it becomes clear that they offer different experiences to the user. The Akashi is lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is heavier, with an actuation force of 59 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. While the bottom out force of the EverFree (EF) Grayish is unknown, the difference in actuation force suggests that it may require a more significant effort to fully press the keys compared to the Akashi. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference, with lighter switches being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier switches for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Akashi linear switch. The difference may not be significant, but it could still affect the overall typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may prefer the Akashi linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
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.
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 Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a unique and resonant experience with a bright, crisp bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem and hybrid housing. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akashi is described as providing a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. This means that users can expect smooth and buttery key presses with reduced resistance and enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a stepped tactile feel, which gives a more mild two-stage tactile response along with that same snappy, super responsive characteristic. Both switches prioritize different aspects of the typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi provides a unique sound contrast and a variety of smooth and responsive typing experiences, the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a more neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feel. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches promise a high-quality typing experience and users can expect similar levels of satisfaction based on their specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a smooth and resonant typing experience with a light actuation force, the Akashi may be the ideal choice for you. The creamy, frictionless, and polished feel of the Akashi switch offers a unique and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight tactile switch with a neutral sound profile, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch could be the perfect fit for you. With its stepped and snappy feel, the Grayish switch provides a responsive typing experience that caters to those who enjoy a more defined tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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