Sarokeys BCP vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The BCP, a linear switch from Sarokeys, provides a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch from Gateron offers a budget-friendly option with a smooth and polished linear mechanism, making it ideal for those looking for a reliable and cost-effective solution. While the BCP is known for its bouncy and clacky feel, the EF Curry switch stands out for its snappy and mild characteristics. 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
51g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, it's evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In this aspect, both switches offer a similar typing experience that prioritizes sound quality and tactile feedback.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Sarokeys BCP stands out with its nylon material, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry opts for polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the BCP produces a softer sound profile, creating a more muted typing experience that emphasizes a deeper sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the EF Curry delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is crisper and more resonant. This contrast highlights how the choice of material for the top housing can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
It is worth noting that the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing of a switch can also influence its aesthetic appeal. While the nylon top housing of the Sarokeys BCP may offer a more classic and understated look, the polycarbonate top housing of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry allows for translucency, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This difference in material not only affects the sound profile of the switch but also contributes to its overall design and customization options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, we can see a slight difference in their weights. The BCP has a slightly lighter actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium switch. The BCP offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which could be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the EverFree (EF) Curry provides a slightly stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a good balance between actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the BCP switch requires less distance to actuate compared to the Curry switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the BCP switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Curry switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys BCP has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.85.
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
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a signature clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Sarokeys BCP is praised for its bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys offer a spring-like, elastic feedback, giving users a lively feel with a smooth and buttery sensation. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild. These characteristics indicate that the Curry switch provides a super responsive typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, offering a gentle typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Sarokeys BCP and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, ideal for those seeking a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry switch offers a snappy, polished, and mild feel, catering to users looking for a responsive and smooth typing experience at an affordable price point. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, consider the specific qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you value a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a snappy, polished, and mild typing sensation at a budget-friendly price point, the Gateron EverFree Curry switch could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to determine what attributes matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your final decision.