Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, one popular consideration is whether to opt for a tactile switch like the Kailh Box Royal or a linear switch like the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry. The Box Royal is renowned for its incredibly sharp and binary tactility, making it a top choice for those who prefer a more aggressive tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry linear switches offer a budget-friendly option from a trusted brand like Gateron, providing a smooth and reliable keystroke experience without compromising on quality. While the Box Royal excels in its sharp, high-pitched sound profile, the EverFree Curry stands out for its snappy, polished, and mild feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, one can see a clear distinction in their sound profiles. The Box Royal's nylon top housing provides a softer and more absorbent quality, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Curry's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a crisper tone. This difference in material leads to distinct sound experiences for users, catering to different preferences in terms of typing sound.
While the Box Royal and the EverFree (EF) Curry both feature nylon bottom housings, they offer a similar experience in terms of sound and feel. Both switches benefit from the softness and sound absorption qualities of nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound experience of the switches, contributing to a more rounded and dull sound upon bottoming out keys. This similarity in material showcases how housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, highlighting the importance of choosing the right material for individual preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The differences in housing materials, with the Box Royal using nylon and the EverFree (EF) Curry utilizing polycarbonate, create distinct typing experiences for users. Whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound with the Box Royal's nylon housing or a sharper, crisper sound with the EverFree (EF) Curry's polycarbonate housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The impact of housing materials on sound profiles serves as a key factor in deciding which switch is the best fit for individual needs and preferences.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box Royal requires 70 grams of force, which is heavier than the EverFree Curry's 60 grams. The Box Royal offers a more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force, while the EverFree Curry provides a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Box Royal has a shorter travel distance compared to the EverFree Curry. The shorter travel distance of the Box Royal may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the EverFree Curry may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp noise with each key press. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Remember that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Box Royal is recognized for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a strong and distinct tactile bump with each key press. Conversely, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild. This suggests that the EverFree Curry switches provide a responsive and smooth typing experience, with a refined finish and gentle key feel that would appeal to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch offers a highly tactile and sharp typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer aggressive tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch provides a smooth and responsive typing experience with a polished finish and a more approachable sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of tactile intensity, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp and distinctly tactile typing experience, the Box Royal may be the better choice, while those seeking a smoother and more versatile option may find the EverFree Curry to be more suitable.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you enjoy a sharp, binary tactility and a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth keystroke with a budget-friendly option, the EverFree (EF) Curry is a reliable linear switch that offers a snappy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your individual preferences and typing style.
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