Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the PH Studio Yoel offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The EF Grayish from Gateron's sub-brand, Everfree, 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 Yoel linear switch from PH Studio manufactured by BSUN provides a satisfyingly chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, creating a distinct feel with each key press. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the translucency of polycarbonate, these switches are ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, while the EverFree Grayish features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Yoel has a POM bottom housing that produces a unique and pleasing sound on the deeper side. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, with the EverFree Grayish offering a more rounded sound and the Yoel providing a more muted sound.
In terms of aesthetics and RGB compatibility, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the PH Studio Yoel top housings share similar characteristics due to their polycarbonate material. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound profile that is enhanced by the use of RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the EverFree Grayish's nylon construction offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Yoel's POM housing produces a more muted and unique sound. This difference in bottom housing material may influence the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish and the PH Studio Yoel switches, it is evident that the polycarbonate top housings offer similar sound profiles characterized by sharp, high-pitched, and crisp tones. However, the choice of bottom housing material - nylon for the EverFree Grayish and POM for the Yoel - results in distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree Grayish provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Yoel offers a more muted and unique sound. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how the overall sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by the combination of top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Yoel is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 53 grams compared to the EverFree's 59 grams. The EverFree switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Yoel has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier in this aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Yoel may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Yoel provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer keystroke. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for key activation.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, we find that the EverFree has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Yoel's 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The EverFree may provide a slightly more substantial feeling when pressed due to its longer travel distance, while the Yoel may feel more abrupt and responsive with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is crisp and satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience. While the EverFree Grayish offers a more balanced and moderate sound, the Yoel switch caters to users who prefer a brighter and more resonant typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as stepped and snappy, providing a tactile experience with two distinct stages in the keystroke and a responsive feel. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky sensation with smooth key travel and reduced friction, delivering a luxurious typing experience for those who appreciate a buttery feel with each key press. The EverFree Grayish switch focuses on responsiveness and tactility, while the Yoel switch prioritizes smoothness and refinement in the typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a tactile typing experience with a snappy feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile with a creamy, polished, and silky typing feel, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch would be the ideal option for you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting the one that aligns with your personal preferences will ultimately provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a reliable and versatile tactile switch with a moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force that offers a bright and clacky sound profile, as well as a creamy and polished typing experience, then the PH Studio Yoel linear switch might be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, both the EverFree (EF) Grayish and the Yoel have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what aligns best with your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
