The Gateron EF EverFree Grayish and HMX Hydra switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the tactile breed. They both feature PC top housing, POM stem material, standard stem shape, - g , - mm , however, they come with different bottom housing (Nylon vs P2), spring (dual-stage vs 22 mm single-stage extended KOS), actuation (59 g vs 42 g), pre-travel (2 mm vs 2.30 mm), total travel (3.40 mm vs 3.10 mm). That said, they are moderately similar. Let's check out this side-by-side specs rundawn with details, availability -- and even current prices -- to figure out which one fits you the best!
The Gateron EF EverFree Grayish is a tactile standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and POM stem (standard shape). It features a dual-stage spring. The 59g actuation occurs at 2mm. Bottom-out is at 3.40mm. Factory lubing? Yes! Manufactured by Gateron. | The HMX Hydra is a tactile standard MX mechanical switch with PC top housing, P2 bottom housing, and POM stem (standard shape). It features a 22 mm single-stage extended KOS spring. The 42g actuation occurs at 2.30mm. The 50g bottom-out occurs at 3.10mm. Extra: Light diffuser. Factory lubing? Yes! Designed by HMX. Manufactured by HMX. |
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| Name | Gateron EF EverFree Grayish | HMX Hydra |
|---|---|---|
| Type | tactile | tactile |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | PC | PC |
| Bottom housing | Nylon | P2 |
| Stem material | POM | POM |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | dual-stage | 22 mm single-stage extended KOS |
| Tactile force | - g | - g |
| Actuation | 59 g | 42 g |
| Bottom-out | - g | 50 g |
| Tactile bump position | - mm | - mm |
| Pre-travel | 2 mm | 2.30 mm |
| Total travel | 3.40 mm | 3.10 mm |
| Lube | Factory lubing? Yes! Light factory lubed. | Factory lubing? Yes! Stem legs and stem sliders are covered with a very thin coat of 205g0. The spring and leaf are lubed with dry film. |
| Designer | - | HMX |
| Manufacturer | Gateron | HMX |
By tracking prices and in-stock status of 30+ well-known keyboard stores worldwide, we can state that the Gateron EF EverFree Grayish is much more widely available, but the HMX Hydra is also available in some stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering Gateron EF EverFree Grayish and HMX Hydra switches. When accepted, the prices indicated already include the discount - use the KBDNEWS coupon code at checkout to claim your saving!
Prices, discounts, and stock status are checked regularly; however, changes since the last update cannot be ruled out. Everything here is for informational purposes only. Check the product pages for the latest prices!
Comments on Gateron EF EverFree Grayish switches | Comments on HMX Hydra switches |
Gateron's EF Grayish switch is a switch under a new sub-brand of Gateron named Ever Free (EF) that aims to produce high quality switches at a more affordable price range. The switch is made using a new mold and design, delivering exceptional smoothness. Initially targeted at the Asian market, the EF switches have garnered such demand that it is now venturing into Western markets as well. These Grayish switches are a heavy tactile switch with the classic material combination. These switches are a great go-to option for a high performance tactile – Lume Keebs. | The HMX Hydra tactile switch is designed by XLLAB and features a big almost D-shaped tactile bump similar to Retro J. It is an attempt to replicate the classic Gateron Type R's D-shaped bump, but with a touch of the signature HMX clacky sound profile and fantastic stem wobble control. Thanks to the P2 bottom housing, the Hydra switches are one of the clackiest HMX tactile switches so far – Unikeys. |
