Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and TTC Flaming Purple are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features for keyboard enthusiasts. The EF Curry is a budget-friendly option from Gateron, known for its smooth and polished keystrokes, making it ideal for those looking for a reliable and cost-effective solution. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character and poppy undertones, providing an engaging auditory experience with its feathery nature and low-pitched sound. While the EF Curry excels in its snappy and mild feel, the Flaming Purple offers an easy-to-press switch with a unique bassy tone. 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
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Flaming Purple feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic plays a significant role in creating a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Flaming Purple differ in their bottom housing material, with the EF Curry featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Flaming Purple also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is a softer material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing, there may be slight variations in the typing experience and sound between the two switches due to potential differences in the manufacturing process or design.
When it comes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of switches, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role. The qualities of the housing materials will impact both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, as well as the sound produced when letting go of a key. While both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Flaming Purple offer a blend of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials, the unique characteristics of each material contribute to subtle differences in the typing experience that can cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple is the lighter option overall. The EverFree (EF) Curry has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Flaming Purple may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the EverFree (EF) Curry might be favoured by users who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron EverFree Curry linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Flaming Purple switch would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry switch offers a bit more depth and keypress feel with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial keypress experience.
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 TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 switch is known for its neutral and clean sound profile, providing a reliable auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple switch stands out for its bassier undertones and resonant character, offering a more engaging and slightly poppy sound during typing. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the EverFree Curry providing a more straightforward sound experience while the Flaming Purple offers a richer and more dynamic audio feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is recognized for its snappy and polished typing experience, offering a responsive and refined feel with reduced friction. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a lightweight and effortless typing sensation that minimizes finger fatigue. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, with the EverFree Curry offering a sleek and precise feel, while the Flaming Purple prioritizes comfort and ease of typing.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and TTC Flaming Purple switches present distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The EverFree Curry switch excels in providing a reliable linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for those seeking a straightforward switch. In contrast, the Flaming Purple switch stands out for its resonant sound signature and feather-light feel, catering to users who prioritize a more engaging and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, deciding between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch or the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a reliable, budget-friendly option with smooth keystrokes, then the EverFree Curry switch is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter bottom out force with a unique, resonant sound profile and feathery feel for swift and effortless typing, then the Flaming Purple switch may be more appealing to you. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider what matters most to you in a keyboard switch before making your final decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what suits your typing needs and preferences best.
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