Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The EverFree Curry is known for its cost-effective value and smooth linear mechanism, making it a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option from Gateron. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavier actuation and bottom-out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a medium-heavy feel. While the Curry switch boasts a snappy and polished typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky and creamy feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Curry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing, which is characterized by a slightly less sharp but still satisfyingly clacky sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's black color gives it a sleek and classic look.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the EverFree Curry features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing offers a unique sound profile on the deeper end of the spectrum, with a relatively more muted tone. This difference in bottom housing materials contributes to each switch's overall sound signature and typing feel.
While the EverFree Curry and G Pro 3.0 Black have different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience, with the Curry providing a sharper, crisper sound and the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a slightly softer yet still satisfyingly clacky sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is clear that the EverFree Curry is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it the heavier choice. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the EverFree Curry would be the preferred option, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Despite their differences in force, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall performance and responsiveness.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that whether you choose the EF Curry or the G Pro 3.0 Black, you can expect to experience a similar key press sensation as they both require the same amount of travel distance. This makes them suitable choices for users who prefer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 EverFree (EF) Curry switch offers a mild and relatively subdued typing experience, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This auditory difference can cater to different preferences, with the Curry switch providing a more gentle sound and the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offering a more pronounced and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is known for its snappy and polished characteristics, providing a responsive and smooth keystroke experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy and silky, offering a buttery smooth typing sensation. These differences in feel cater to different typing preferences, with the Curry switch emphasizing responsiveness and smoothness, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch focuses on a luxurious and effortless keystroke.
Overall, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the G Pro 3.0 Black switches offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Curry switch provides a mild and subdued sound with a snappy and polished feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a clacky sound with a creamy and silky typing experience. Whether you prefer a more gentle and muted typing sound or a sharp and snappy one, or if you lean towards a super responsive feel or a smooth and luxurious one, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium bottom out force and smooth keystrokes, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and want a switch that offers a premium feel at an affordable price point, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound characteristics, and typing feel.
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