Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Piano present unique options to suit different preferences. The EF Grayish is a tactile switch known for its medium weight, neutral sound signature, and affordable price point, making it a solid choice for those looking for a default tactile option. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is a linear switch crafted with a proprietary material blend, offering a smooth typing experience with a deep, creamy sound signature. While the EF Grayish provides a snappy and stepped feel, the Piano offers a silky and frictionless typing experience. 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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM 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 Durock Piano, there are some significant differences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Piano features a proprietary POM blend top housing that offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While polycarbonate is clear and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, the POM blend of the Piano remains a bit mysterious in its composition but delivers a distinct sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the EverFree (EF) Grayish employs a nylon bottom housing that enhances the switch's sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and produces a rounder sound overall. Conversely, the Piano incorporates a POM blend bottom housing, mirroring the proprietary blend used in the top housing. Although the exact details of this blend are unknown, it promises to deliver a satisfying and deep sound experience, similar to that of the top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches can significantly impact the sound profile and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard. While both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Durock Piano offer unique qualities in their housing materials, they both aim to create an enhanced typing experience. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate of the EverFree (EF) Grayish for a sharper sound or the mysterious POM blend of the Piano for a deep and satisfying sound, both switches are designed to cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. In the end, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences. The EverFree (EF) Grayish has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Piano's unknown actuation force, making it more responsive to key presses. On the other hand, the Piano has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the EverFree (EF) Grayish's unknown bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer advantages depending on the user's preference, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish being lighter and better for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Piano delivers a more forceful typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish has the shorter travel distance compared to the Piano switch. The shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm in the EverFree (EF) Grayish can provide a faster response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value quick reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of 4 mm in the Durock Piano switch may offer a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer a deeper typing experience. While both switches may offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 switch offers a neutral sound signature, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch delivers a bassy sound profile with deeper and richer tones during key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the EverFree (EF) Grayish offering a more versatile sound and the Durock Piano providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is a stepped switch, providing a tactile experience with two distinct stages in the keystroke. Additionally, it is described as snappy, offering a responsive typing experience that feels alive. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch is characterized as frictionless, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. It also provides a silky typing feel, enhancing overall smoothness and reducing resistance during key presses and releases. Determining which switch to choose will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and typing experience.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a neutral sound signature and a stepped, snappy feel, the Durock Piano delivers a bassy sound profile and a frictionless, silky typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a more versatile sound profile and tactile feedback (EverFree) or a deeper, more pleasing sound with a smoother typing experience (Piano). However, both switches are crafted with high-quality materials and offer a pleasant typing experience, so regardless of the choice, users can expect excellent performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch versus the Durock Piano linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactility and sound. If you're looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and a medium weight that provides a stepped and snappy typing experience, the EF Grayish is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bassy sound profile and a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a frictionless and silky typing experience, the Durock Piano would be more to your liking. Consider your typing style and sound preference when making your decision between these two switches.
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