HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Cloud - 63.5g is lauded for its clacky sound profile, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry switches by Gateron offer exceptional value in the linear switch market, providing a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a silky smooth feel and a heavier typing experience, the EverFree Curry stands out for its smooth keystrokes and reliable performance. 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
56g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, one can see a stark difference in the materials used. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a softer and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in materials leads to a difference in typing experience, with the Cloud offering a more muted sound while the EF Curry provides a clearer and more resonant sound.
While the two switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, the difference lies in the top housing material. The tactile experience of typing on the Cloud - 63.5g will be influenced by the softer nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing will also contribute to a similar typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the standout difference will be felt in the top housing material, with the Cloud's nylon offering a duller sound compared to the EF Curry's polycarbonate, which provides a sharper and crisper sound.
It is evident that the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch. While both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the distinct difference in their top housing materials results in contrasting sound profiles. The Cloud's nylon top housing creates a softer and fuller sound, while the EF Curry's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. These differences highlight how the materials used in switch housings can greatly impact the typing experience and sound aesthetic for users.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch show some differences. The Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly heavier actuation force of 56 grams compared to the EverFree (EF) Curry's 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cloud - 63.5g at 63.5 grams and the EverFree (EF) Curry at 60 grams. Overall, the Cloud - 63.5g can be considered slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, while both switches provide a similar experience when bottoming out. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the EverFree (EF) Curry for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may enjoy the more substantial typing experience offered by the slightly heavier Cloud - 63.5g switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g has the shorter travel distance compared to the EverFree (EF) Curry switch. The difference may seem minor, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the HMX Cloud - 63.5g due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press experience may opt for the EverFree (EF) Curry switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for travel distance and keyboard feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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 it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched profile, producing sharp and crisp tones with each keystroke. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch's sound qualities are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation with each key press. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild. These qualities suggest a super responsive key feel with a smooth finish, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches each have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with snappy, polished, and mild characteristics, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch provides a reliable and cost-effective solution from a trusted brand. Whichever switch you choose, rest assured that both options will offer a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switches, you should consider your preferences for typing experience and budget. If you are an enthusiast who enjoys a bright, clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth keystroke and reliable performance, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches from Gateron may be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs, so make sure to consider your priorities when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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