Dareu Dream vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry are two linear options worth exploring. The Dareu Dream switches are praised for their light actuation, clacky sound, and mild feel, all at an attractive price point, making them a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches, part of Gateron's Everfree sub-brand, offer a budget-friendly option without sacrificing on performance. Known for their snappy response, polished feel, and mild actuation, these switches provide a smooth keystroke experience ideal for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution from a trusted name in the industry. While these general characteristics can help guide your decision, exploring the specific features and nuances of each switch will allow you to make the best choice suited to your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Overall, both the Dareu Dream and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates well, providing a clear and distinct sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both switches. While the top housings are identical in material and characteristics, the bottom housings differ between the two switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Dream and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry utilize nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing. Despite the different top housing materials, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to the overall typing experience by providing a unique sound and feel.
The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Dareu Dream and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches results in a blend of characteristics that enhance the overall typing experience. While both switches share the sharp and crisp sound profile of polycarbonate top housings, the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housings sets them apart. The different housing materials in each switch allow for a balanced sound experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when letting go of a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Dream and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it is evident that the Dream is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams, compared to the EF Curry's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Dream is unknown, while the EF Curry has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. This means that the Dream may provide a lighter typing experience, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the EF Curry offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Dream being lighter and potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions, and the EF Curry providing a stronger push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed down. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to other switch options, which may appeal to those who prefer a more responsive feel while typing or gaming. Overall, whether you choose the Dareu Dream or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Dareu Dream switch is known for its clacky characteristic, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed, adding an element of tactile feedback to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch's sound profile is not specified, so it may share a similar sound profile to the Dream or offer a different auditory experience depending on external factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a smooth, low-impact typing feel that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground. Conversely, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is characterized by its snappy and responsive feel, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs that make typing feel more alive. Additionally, the Curry switch is said to be polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, along with a mild typing feel similar to the Dream.
Overall, both the Dareu Dream and Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Dream switch stands out for its light and clacky sound profile, as well as its easy-to-press and mild typing feel, making it an affordable and comfortable option for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch provides a budget-friendly choice with a snappy and polished feel, offering a responsive typing experience with smooth key travel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your keyboard switch selection, both switches provide quality options that deliver reliable performance.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, your choice should be based on your preferences and priorities. If you value a light linear option with an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream switches would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force switch that offers a smooth keystroke and excellent value, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches would be an ideal choice. Consider your typing style, budget, and desired typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Whether you prioritize affordability or a reliable brand name, both switches offer unique advantages to enhance your typing experience.
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