HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to compare and contrast are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze. Its distinctive glitter housing adds a visual and auditory delight to the typing experience with a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry switches from Gateron offer a budget-friendly option without compromising quality. These linear switches provide a snappy and polished keystroke, ideal for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution. While both switches have their strengths and appeals, each catering to different preferences and needs, it's important to dive deeper beyond generalities to choose the best switch for your specific typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound that is particularly well-suited for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetically pleasing element to the overall design of the switch. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when typing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the HMX Blue Topaz utilizes nylon while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience with the nylon bottom housing enhancing the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
In terms of functionality, the differences in top and bottom housing materials play a role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry offer users a tactile typing experience with unique sound profiles attributed to their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz requires 48 grams, while the EverFree Curry needs 60 grams. The Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long typing or gaming sessions where fatigue could be a concern. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry offers a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push for a more tactile experience. Both switches offer different weights, catering to users with varying preferences for typing feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may impact the feel of the key press for some users. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Blue Topaz switch, while those who prefer a bit more depth to their key presses may prefer the EverFree Curry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 comparing the sound of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, the Blue Topaz is known for its clacky sound, providing users with a sharp and snappy typing experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound profile of the EverFree Curry remains unknown, but it is worth noting that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps in use.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This switch is designed to minimize finger fatigue during extended typing sessions while providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is described as snappy, featuring a super responsive mechanism that makes typing feel more alive. Additionally, the Curry switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Its mild characteristics offer a safe middle-ground typing feel that is approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz is characterized by its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a smooth and lightweight option for users. In comparison, the EverFree Curry offers a budget-friendly and reliable linear switch option with a snappy and polished feel, appealing to those looking for a responsive typing experience. Overall, both switches provide unique benefits, and selecting between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation force and a smooth keystroke, then the Blue Topaz switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium bottom out force and a snappy, polished feel, then the EverFree (EF) Curry switch might be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so it's important to carefully consider what qualities are most important to you before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences and requirements.
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