Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry both offer unique features and benefits for users. The CAP Anniversary is recognized for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. This switch is known for its snappy, creamy, and polished feel, providing a premium typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand offers a budget-friendly option without compromising quality. With a linear mechanism for smooth keystrokes, it is categorized as snappy, polished, and mild. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry are quite similar in terms of their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature, the CAP Anniversary and the EverFree Curry differ in their nylon bottom housing.
The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. The difference in housing materials between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing to achieve a crisp sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound for a rounder sound. The choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary is heavier with a force of 65 grams compared to the EverFree (EF) Curry which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel than the EverFree (EF) Curry, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push sensation. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation force, but the difference lies in the bottom out force, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the EverFree Curry linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will not notice a difference in the typing feel between them.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 CAP Anniversary and EverFree (EF) Curry switches offer similar levels of quiet operation, making them ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. The unique design of the CAP Anniversary may contribute to a slightly softer sound profile, while the EverFree Curry maintains a standard level of linear switch noise. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the CAP Anniversary and EverFree (EF) Curry switches possess qualities that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switches are known for their snappy and creamy feel, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry switches provide a snappy and polished sensation with a mild touch, delivering a gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches prioritize smoothness and tactility, ensuring a comfortable typing experience no matter your preference.
Overall, whether you opt for the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its innovative design and exceptional smoothness, while the EverFree Curry offers a cost-effective option without compromising on performance. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you can find a suitable option from the Gateron lineup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and needs. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability, the CAP Anniversary with its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic design may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and prefer a smooth, reliable typing experience, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch may be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities worth considering based on your individual needs in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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