HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HC Studio Crabapple is a linear switch crafted entirely from POM, offering an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness that is distinct from an oily glide. The switches provide a subtle texture with each downstroke and emit a mild, understated sound. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, also a linear switch, is known for being a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. The EverFree Curry switches feature Gateron's proprietary mold and offer a smooth keystroke that is ideal for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Crabapple's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Curry's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, particularly suitable for enhancing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Crabapple's POM bottom housing maintains a similarly deep sound profile as the top housing, whereas the Curry's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature.
While both the Crabapple and the Curry switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact of each material is felt differently during key presses. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the Crabapple's POM bottom housing offering a deeper sound and the Curry's nylon bottom housing providing a fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, with the Crabapple's POM top housing creating a muted sound and the Curry's polycarbonate top housing producing a sharper sound profile suitable for RGB lighting effects.
Overall, the choice of housing material between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as between POM and nylon for the bottom housing, plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. While the Crabapple and the Curry offer distinct characteristics in their housing materials, they both aim to provide a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences in sound and aesthetics. Whether you prefer a deeper, muted sound profile with POM or a sharper, crisper sound profile with polycarbonate, each switch offers a distinct typing experience based on the housing materials used.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch. The Crabapple requires 37 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crabapple, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the EverFree (EF) Curry switch. Both switches offer different weight options, catering to individuals' preferences for extended typing sessions or a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crabapple offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast and precise key presses. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer their own unique benefits based on individual preferences, providing users with options to choose the one that best suits their needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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 HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued sound that is dampened and subtle when pressed, providing a quiet typing experience that is not completely silent but still mild and understated. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch's sound quality is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Crabapple linear switch is revered for its frictionless properties, offering an effortless and smooth typing experience with minimal resistance or friction, resulting in a fluid key travel. Additionally, it provides a mild and textured sensation with a safe middle-ground feel that is generally well-received by users. Conversely, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is described as snappy and polished, providing a super responsive and refined typing experience due to its smooth finish and reduced friction. Similar to the Crabapple, it also offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, while the HC Studio Crabapple and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a smooth and mild typing experience that caters to a wide range of users. Whether you prefer the frictionless and subtly textured typing journey of the Crabapple or the snappy and polished feel of the EverFree Curry, both switches provide reliable and cost-effective options in the linear switch market. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as any additional factors influencing your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Crabapple switches crafted from POM may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force with a budget-friendly option that offers a reliable and smooth keystroke experience, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches with Gateron's proprietary mold could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, typing feel, sound signature, and budget constraints. Choose the switch that aligns best with your priorities and typing preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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