Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron EverFree Curry linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Crystal switch offers a unique typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry switch from Gateron provides a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, thanks to Gateron's proprietary mold technology. Both switches are categorized as polished, but the Crystal is described as high-pitched and chirpy, while the EverFree Curry is snappy and mild. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
55g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Crystal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material used in the clear top housing of these switches is known for its stiffness, contributing to a more resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Despite the similarities in top housing material, the differences arise when looking at the bottom housing of these switches.
While the Crystal opts for polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, the EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The distinction between the materials used in the bottom housing of these switches impacts the overall typing experience, with the Crystal offering a sharper feel from top to bottom, while the EF Curry delivers a deeper and more muffled typing sound due to its nylon bottom housing.
In summary, while both the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper sound profile, the use of nylon in the EF Curry's bottom housing sets it apart by creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The placement of different housing materials in these switches highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch when typing. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The Crystal features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the EverFree Curry's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. Both switches have similar bottom out forces with the Crystal at 55 grams and the EverFree Curry at 60 grams, providing a medium typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Crystal more suitable for extended typing sessions, while users looking for a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the EverFree Curry for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance. It can be concluded that in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a 4 mm travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, providing a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch's sound profile is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal is described as having a polished feel, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild. These characteristics indicate that the EF Curry switch offers a responsive typing feel with smooth key travel, making it suitable for a wide range of users who prefer a gentle typing experience.
In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switches, it's evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Crystal switch provides a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished feel, the EF Curry switch offers a snappy, polished, and mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve a satisfying and personalized typing experience. Overall, users can expect reliable performance from both switches, albeit with slightly different subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, there are key factors to consider. If you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a cost-effective option with a smooth keystroke and a reliable build quality from a well-known brand in the industry, the EverFree Curry switch could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and budget. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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