Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Gold Brown Pro offer distinct yet appealing options to cater to varying typing preferences. The EverFree Curry, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and polished feel, making it a fantastic choice for gamers and typists who appreciate a snappy, uninterrupted typing experience without breaking the bank. Its budget-friendly nature does not compromise on quality, positioning it as an excellent value in the market. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro caters to enthusiasts who favor tactile feedback. With its subtle tactile bump and low-pitched sound profile, this switch allows for immersive typing experiences while minimizing distractions, making it a great option for those who thrive in a quieter environment. Both switches have their unique strengths: the EverFree Curry for its smooth simplicity and affordability, and the Gold Brown Pro for its nuanced feedback and subdued acoustics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Gold Brown Pro share striking similarities in their housing materials, particularly in their top components. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which are renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, which allows for a clearer resonance when switched. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate enhances its aesthetic appeal, especially for keyboards that utilize RGB lighting. Consequently, users of both the EverFree EF Curry and the Gold Brown Pro can expect a vibrant visual display in conjunction with an audible clarity typical of polycarbonate constructions.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches utilize nylon, which introduces a contrasting auditory experience. The nylon material is known for its softer composition, which absorbs sound more than harder plastics do, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. When typing on either switch, the softer nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound that significantly affects the overall typing experience. This duality in sound profile—crispness from the polycarbonate top and fullness from the nylon bottom—ensures that both switches provide unique yet complementary auditory sensations for users.
When it comes to the overall performance of these switches, the combination of housing materials plays a critical role in shaping the typing experience. Given that both switches employ the same materials in their respective top and bottom housings, they offer a distinct sound and feel. The stiffer polycarbonate tops contribute to a more resonant sound during key releases, while the softer nylon bottoms enhance the bottom-out feel with a more muted auditory response. Therefore, users looking for both clarity and depth in their typing experience will find that these two switches, despite their branding differences, ultimately deliver similar experiences due to their shared material properties.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch exhibit some key differences in their actuation force, impacting user experience. The EF Curry has an actuation force of 50 grams, which makes it slightly heavier compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams. This lighter actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro can contribute to less finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions, making it a favorable option for those who value comfort over long periods. In terms of bottom out forces, the EF Curry reaches 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down, whereas the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unknown. Thus, users seeking a heavier typing experience may prefer the EF Curry due to its higher bottom out force, while the lighter actuation of the Gold Brown Pro caters to those who prioritize ease of use. Overall, if you enjoy a lighter switch for lengthy usage, the Gold Brown Pro would be an appealing choice, while the EF Curry is ideal for those who appreciate a more resistant feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the EverFree switch offers a more pronounced depth when pressed down, likely appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro, with its shorter travel distance, may provide quicker response times, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking rapid actuation. While both switches can cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback, the EF Curry's 4 mm travel distance positions it as the better choice for users who enjoy a hearty depth, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those prioritizing responsiveness. Consequently, if you're looking for a more immersive typing experience, the EverFree is the better option, whereas for faster-paced gaming, the Gold Brown Pro's shorter distance could be more suitable.
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 Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 presents a more subdued auditory profile compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro. While the EverFree's exact sound characteristics are not explicitly detailed, it is likely to have a milder presence, aligning with its linear design, which typically produces less noise than tactile or clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro is characterized by its thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying "thud" upon keystroke engagement. This makes it a quieter option in shared environments, as its neutral sound profile allows for discreet typing without generating excessive noise, catering to users who prefer an unobtrusive auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, both switches share a polished finish, ensuring that users experience smooth key travel with minimized friction. The EverFree (EF) Curry is noted for its snappy and mild characteristics, contributing to a responsive typing experience that feels lively yet approachable. The Gold Brown Pro, while also polished, has a silky feel that enhances smoothness even further, offering a gentle resistance without being overwhelming. The tactile feedback of the Gold Brown Pro is subtle and stepped, which provides a nuanced typing experience that remains far from intrusive. In contrast, the EverFree's snappy feel aligns well with those seeking an engaging yet balanced typing experience.
In conclusion, each switch offers distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The EverFree (EF) Curry excels as a budget-friendly linear option with a potential for a quieter sound and a snappy, polished feel, suitable for straightforward typing tasks. Meanwhile, the TTC Gold Brown Pro stands out for its tactile feedback and clean, subdued sound, making it ideal for users who appreciate subtle, responsive touches. While they cater to different needs aesthetically and functionally, both switches can effectively provide pleasant typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their specific priorities—whether that be a smoother, linear feel or a more tactile interaction with a refined auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch largely hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you're drawn to a reliable, budget-friendly switch that offers a smooth and snappy typing experience, the EverFree Curry is an excellent choice. Its consistent feel combined with a subtle sound profile makes it ideal for those who prefer uninterrupted typing sessions, whether for gaming or extended writing tasks. Conversely, if you appreciate a more nuanced tactile feedback during your keystrokes without intrusive sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is an ideal fit. Its polished and silky texture provides that pleasing tactile bump while remaining low-pitched and discreet, making it perfect for shared workspaces or quiet environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prefer the smoothness and responsiveness of a linear switch or the subtle tactile sensations offered by a mild tactile switch.
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