Kailh Box White vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Curry linear switch, users are presented with two distinct options for their mechanical keyboards. The Box White switch is renowned for its audible feedback and noticeable tactility, providing a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch during typing. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry switch offers a smooth and reliable keystroke experience, making it an affordable yet high-quality option in the linear switch market. While the Box White excels in providing a resonant and high-pitched typing experience, the EverFree Curry stands out for its snappy and polished 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. While both switches have similar top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
On the other hand, both the Box White and the EverFree (EF) Curry utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite having different top housings, the switches share the classic switch housing material of nylon for their bottom housings, which impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, the combination of the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Kailh Box White and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches creates a unique typing experience. While they share similarities in their top housing material and resulting sound profile, the differences in their bottom housing material affect the feel and sound of the switches when typing and releasing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equally medium-weight switches. The actuation force of a switch is the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to press a key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, both the Box White and the EF Curry would be suitable choices. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, both switches may also provide a satisfying option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and whether a clicky or linear switch is preferred.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it is clear that the Box White has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the EverFree Curry's longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Box White may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the EverFree Curry's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of tactile feedback and typing feel, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's typing style and preference for key press depth.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched qualities, providing a clean and sharp sound profile reminiscent of crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided. However, linear switches typically offer a quieter typing experience compared to clicky switches like the Box White. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is noted for being snappy, indicating a super responsive typing feel, possibly due to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, it shares the polished quality with the Box White, ensuring a sleek typing experience. The mild descriptor suggests that the EverFree Curry switch offers a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound with accented tactility, while the EverFree Curry stands out with its snappy and polished feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, either switch can provide a satisfactory experience. It's important to consider other factors such as keyboard build and keycap choice to fully optimize the performance of these switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique benefits and cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy typing experience with a polished feel, the Box White may be the perfect choice for you. However, if you value a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth and snappy keystroke, the EverFree (EF) Curry could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preference for audio feedback and typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, both the Box White and EverFree Curry offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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