Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options. Two popular linear switches that stand out in the market are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX FJ400. The EverFree (EF) Curry, a product of Gateron’s sub-brand, is celebrated for its exceptional value, delivering a smooth keystroke experience that is both reliable and budget-friendly. With its ‘snappy’, ‘polished’, and ‘mild’ characteristics, this switch is perfect for those who want a high-quality tactile response without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile, serving as a great middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup. While it's designed to cater to users seeking a harmonious typing experience, it lacks specific categorical descriptors, leaving more to be discovered. Both switches cater to different preferences and budgets, making the choice highly subjective. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX FJ400, we find that they feature notable differences in their top housing materials while sharing similarities in their bottom housing composition. The EF Curry utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucence which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This sound quality is particularly enhanced when RGB lighting is incorporated due to the clarity of polycarbonate. Conversely, the FJ400 features a POM top housing, which provides a uniquely muted sound characterized by deeper tonal qualities. This distinction in top housing materials suggests that users can expect different auditory experiences from the switches, with the EF Curry delivering a crisper sound compared to the deeper resonance of the FJ400.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, an aspect that brings cohesion to their sound profiles. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a fuller and rounder sound when bottoming out, creating a satisfying tactile feedback during typing. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that, despite the differences in the top housings, users can anticipate similar experiences concerning the sound and feel at the bottom of the switch. Therefore, while the top housing materials provide distinct auditory signatures, the bottom housing serves as a common element that influences the overall bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the differing top and bottom housing materials of the EF Curry and FJ400 create a layered sound profile where the impact of each material influences the note produced during key press and release. The EF Curry's polycarbonate top provides brightness, while the FJ400's POM top leans toward a muted tone. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which melds with the top materials to create a full, rich acoustic experience. Consequently, those who appreciate the sound and feel of switches featuring nylon bases might find satisfaction in either option, albeit with varied top-end performance depending on their choice of top housing. This blend of materials ultimately highlights the intricate relationship between different switch components in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch exhibit some similarities, alongside noteworthy differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally lightweight, which is beneficial for users who favor longer typing sessions or extended gaming without excessive fatigue. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the EF Curry has a slightly heavier feel, measuring at 60 grams compared to the FJ400's 58 grams. This minor difference means that while both switches offer a comparable actuation experience, the EverFree Curry provides a slightly more substantial feel when bottoming out, potentially appealing to users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Overall, the EF Curry is marginally heavier in terms of bottom out force, while both switches share the same actuation force, resulting in similar initial keystroke responses.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference means that the EverFree switch offers a more substantial keypress experience, appealing to users who prefer a deeper and more pronounced feel when typing. In contrast, the FJ400, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers or those seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker actuation. Although both switches provide a smooth linear experience, the Gateron EverFree is the longer option, providing a more hearty depth, while the HMX FJ400 caters to those who may find shorter distances more responsive, albeit potentially feeling more abrupt.
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 HMX FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 for $3.29.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches are designed to provide a smooth auditory experience that balances subtlety and clarity, making them versatile for various typing environments. While specific sound characteristics aren't provided, their budget-friendly nature and trusted Gateron lineage suggest a satisfying experience akin to other linear switches that typically offer minimal noise. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 is positioned as the middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, characterized by a balanced sound profile that caters to users who prefer a more consistent and neutral auditory feedback without extremes. Both switches will inherently convey a subdued, linear sound without the clicky noise found in tactile or clicky switches.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry excels with descriptors such as "snappy," "polished," and "mild." This combination suggests that these switches deliver a highly responsive keystroke experience with minimal friction, thanks to their refined manufacturing and design. The snappy nature of the switch allows for quick actuation, while the polished finish enhances the smoothness of travel, making typing engaging for users. The mild characteristic adds further appeal, ensuring the switch remains approachable for a broad range of users, neither too harsh nor unresponsive. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the HMX FJ400 aren't provided, leaving a gap in direct comparison regarding its tactile characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch stands out with its responsive, smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a refined typing experience while also being budget-friendly. The balanced sound profile of the FJ400 aligns well for those who prioritize auditory consistency without extremes, although its tactile feedback remains undefined. Collectively, both switches present unique strengths, catering to different user preferences—whether one prioritizes an enjoyable typing feel or a well-rounded sound experience. While there may be unknown factors regarding the FJ400's specifics, both switches represent quality options in their respective price ranges.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX FJ400 linear switches, consider your priorities in terms of value, sound, and feel. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, the EverFree Curry is an excellent choice, with its snappy and polished feel enhancing your typing experience. The 60-gram bottom-out force provides a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more balanced sound profile and are interested in a switch that serves as a reliable middle ground, the FJ400 is your go-to option. With its slightly lighter 58-gram force, it may cater to those who prefer a softer touch while still delivering satisfactory performance. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on your specific typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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