Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless feel, reminiscent of effortlessly gliding on ice. With attributes like being subdued, creamy, and silky, this switch promises a polished typing experience that is truly magical. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand stands out as a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Known for its snappy and mild characteristics, this switch provides a smooth keystroke that is ideal for those seeking reliability at a cost-effective price point. Both switches offer distinct advantages, but diving deeper into their specific features will help you determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, we find that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. The translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the switches and adds to their overall aesthetic. While the top housing of both switches shares this material, the EverFree (EF) Curry stands out with its nylon bottom housing. Nylon is favored for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile, which can create a more satisfying typing experience for users.
The difference in bottom housing material between the Aqua King (V3) and the EverFree (EF) Curry leads to variations in sound and feel when typing on these switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the Aqua King's bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, emphasizing the sharpness and crispness of each keystroke. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience. These differences highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall performance and feel of mechanical switches.
While the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry both feature polycarbonate top housings, their bottom housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Users of the Aqua King (V3) may enjoy the sharper and higher-pitched sound produced by the stiffness of polycarbonate, while those using the EverFree (EF) Curry may prefer the deeper and fuller sound created by the nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing feel, with each offering a unique combination of housing materials to cater to different user needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium weight category. The Aqua King (V3) has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the 50 grams required for the EverFree (EF) Curry switch. However, the Aqua King (V3) has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the EverFree (EF) Curry requires 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Aqua King (V3) will provide a lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force but a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry will offer a slightly stronger push feel overall. Both switches offer a balanced typing experience, making them suitable for a variety of users depending on their preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with no noticeable differences in this particular aspect. It is worth noting that while both switches are equal in travel distance, other factors such as actuation force and key feel may vary between the two models.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Curry for $1.99.
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 Everglide Aqua King (V3) provides a subdued switch experience, offering a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aqua King (V3) is known for offering a creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience. Users have described it as feeling like ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink due to its smooth and effortless nature. Conversely, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is characterized as being snappy, polished, and mild. These attributes contribute to a responsive and gentle typing experience for users.
Overall, both the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a switch that provides a frictionless and creamy typing experience, the Aqua King (V3) would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is snappy and polished, the EverFree (EF) Curry may suit your preferences better. It's important to consider your desired sound and feel when selecting a switch, as these factors can greatly impact your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a switch that provides a frictionless and almost magical typing experience with a creamy, polished, and silky feel, then the Aqua King (V3) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a budget-friendly option with a snappy and polished feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch may be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force and smooth keystrokes, so consider your priorities in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches lies in the nuances of your typing preferences.
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