Gateron Beer vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, a linear switch. The Beer switch is known for its translucent green design inspired by the Tsingtao beer bottle, providing a refreshing and unique aesthetic. With a lightweight feel and stepped tactility, the Beer switch offers a more subtle tactile experience compared to other switches, along with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch from Gateron's sub-brand presents a budget-friendly option in the linear switch market. With Gateron's reliable mold and a smooth keystroke, the Curry switch is ideal for those looking for a cost-effective and polished 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches if you plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. This means that both switches will provide a similar sound experience when it comes to the top housing material.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Gateron Beer and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry provides a unique typing experience for each switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile, the distinction lies in the bottom housing materials. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound with the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing, or a deeper, fuller sound with the Curry's nylon bottom housing, these differences will play a significant role in shaping your experience with each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it is clear that the Beer is lighter in both aspects. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance level that may be more appealing to those who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Beer being lighter and the Curry being slightly heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Beer switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the EverFree Curry switch. Typically, a 4.0mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, while a 3.0mm travel distance is the most shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Beer switch a favorable option for them. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the EverFree Curry switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches will provide similar results in terms of key press feedback, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped, offering a lightweight keypress with gentle resistance and a subtle tactility. This results in a responsive and low-impact typing feel, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild, providing a smooth and refined keypress experience with a gentle typing feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. With longer or dual-staged springs, these switches offer a more alive typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, stepped feel, providing a refreshing and lightweight keystroke experience. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch offers a reliable and cost-effective option with a snappy, polished, and mild typing feel, ideal for users seeking a smooth and refined keypress without compromising on quality. Overall, while the two switches offer different subjective qualities, both can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences and usage requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light and easy-to-press switch with a subtle tactile feel and a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a snappy and polished linear feel that offers smooth key travel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch would be more up your alley. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches would depend on your preference for tactile vs. linear switches, as well as your typing style and sound preferences. It's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making a decision.
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