Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Outemu Purple mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches offering a different typing experience. The EF Grayish from Gateron's sub-brand, EverFree, stands out for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and reasonable price point, making it a solid default tactile option. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple, though lacking specific standout features, still provides a tactile typing experience. If you value a precise and snappy typing experience, the EF Grayish may be the better choice for you. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The EverFree (EF) Grayish and Outemu Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing them with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches share this housing material, they may differ in terms of design and color options, giving users the chance to choose based on their aesthetic preferences.
On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish and Outemu Purple have different bottom housings, with the Grayish utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the Purple also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. Although both switches share this housing material, the nuances in sound and feel may vary slightly between the two based on other factors such as stem design and spring weight.
Ultimately, the choice between the EverFree (EF) Grayish and Outemu Purple will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches offer polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in their nylon bottom housings may provide a slightly different typing experience. Whether you prefer a clearer and more resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the EverFree Grayish has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Purple may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree Grayish may appeal to those who desire a bit more resistance while typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Purple switch has a longer travel distance compared to the EverFree Grayish switch. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree Grayish switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Outemu Purple switch may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Outemu Purple comes in at $3.10 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, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. This switch provides a moderate actuation force requirement, resulting in a pleasant typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison. However, both switches will produce satisfying sound profiles depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as stepped and snappy, providing a unique typing experience with two distinct stages. The tactile bump is not as pronounced as in other switches, offering a more subtle tactile feedback. This makes the switch responsive and enjoyable for extended typing sessions. As for the Outemu Purple tactile switch, information about its feel is unavailable. Overall, both switches are designed to offer a tactile typing experience, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish having specific characteristics that cater to users looking for a balanced and responsive feel.
Considering the available information, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and Outemu Purple tactile switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy feel, the characteristics of the Outemu Purple switch remain unknown. However, it's safe to assume that both switches will deliver satisfying tactile feedback for users seeking a tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish or the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you are looking for a medium-weight tactile switch with a neutral sound signature and an approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with specific characteristics not provided in the information available, you may want to explore the Outemu Purple tactile switch further. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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