Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Grapefruit stand out for their unique characteristics. The EF Curry offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, featuring a smooth and reliable linear mechanism that appeals to those seeking a cost-effective solution from a trusted brand. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches offer a special typing experience with a soft and light feel, coupled with a unique sound profile that adds an extra layer of satisfaction to every keystroke. Both switches have their own strengths, with the EF Curry being praised for its snappy and polished typing experience, while the Grapefruit is known for its low-pitched and polished 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Grapefruit feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in other aspects of their design.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Grapefruit utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound. Despite having different top housings, both switches offer a similar typing experience with the nylon bottom housing enhancing the overall sound profile.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch impacts the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. While the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Grapefruit may have similar sound profiles due to their shared polycarbonate top housing, the different bottom housing materials may result in subtle differences in typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have some noticeable differences. The EF Curry has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Grapefruit's 45 grams, making the EF Curry slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the EF Curry requires 60 grams, while the Grapefruit needs 53 grams, once again making the EF Curry heavier. This difference in weight may result in a slightly firmer typing experience with the EF Curry compared to the Grapefruit. However, both switches fall into the medium to medium-light category, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a balance between typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Grapefruit, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may opt for the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for consistent typing experiences between the two switches. Both switches offer a smooth linear keystroke, but the EverFree (EF) Curry may have a different feel due to its unique design and material composition compared to the KTT Grapefruit. Overall, while the travel distances of these switches are the same, the typing experience and tactile feedback may vary based on other factors such as actuation force and actuation point.
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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 provides a subjective experience that is yet to be specifically described. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The neutral sound profile of the Grapefruit switch makes it suitable for a wide range of users and environments, whether for beginner or advanced typists.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The Grapefruit switch is also noted for its polished finish, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel for users seeking a refined typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel that is neither too soft nor too stiff, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke.
Overall, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Grapefruit linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. While the Curry switch boasts a reliable and cost-effective option with a smooth keystroke, the Grapefruit switch stands out for its tarty linear feel and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch or the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in terms of bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth keystroke with a reliable and cost-effective option, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique switch with a soft and light feel along with a distinctive sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and budget when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for a satisfying typing experience.
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