Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices among enthusiasts are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Hyacinth, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The EverFree Curry switches are celebrated for their exceptional value, offering a smooth keystroke without straining your budget, making them ideal for users who seek reliability from a trusted manufacturer. Characterized by a snappy, polished, and mildly responsive feel, these switches cater to those who appreciate a tactile yet unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switches distinguish themselves with their 3.5mm travel distance, designed to mitigate the jarring impact of bottoming out while also featuring a single-stage elongated spring for a more consistent force curve. With a neutral, silky touch and subtle auditory feedback, the Hyacinth appeals to users prioritizing comfort and a refined typing rhythm. Both switches offer unique advantages tailored to different preferences and typing styles; 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
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and KTT Hyacinth both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's unique properties, such as its relatively stiff composition, contribute to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches that prioritize audio feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate provides an aesthetic advantage, particularly for users interested in RGB lighting, as it allows the light to pass through and illuminate the switch beautifully. Because both switches share this top housing material, users will likely find that their typing experience regarding sound clarity and light diffusion will be remarkably similar.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the EverFree (EF) Curry and KTT Hyacinth are made from nylon, a classic material that introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and tends to absorb sound more than its harder plastic counterparts, which contributes to a duller and rounder acoustic experience when typing. This unique quality of nylon complements the crispness of the polycarbonate top housing. When pressed, the switches will respond with a blend of the clear, high-pitched sounds from the polycarbonate top and the richer, deeper tones from the nylon bottom. As a result, both switch options maintain a harmonious balance of sound characteristics, making for a versatile typing experience.
The combination of materials plays a crucial role in how each switch feels and sounds when activated. While both the EF Curry and Hyacinth use the same materials in their respective sections, the interplay between the stiffer polycarbonate top and the softer nylon bottom creates a distinctive acoustic profile for each switch. Adjusting the actuation and bottom-out sounds reveals the unique qualities contributed by each material. Ultimately, though the switches may vary in branding and specific design elements, users can expect similar acoustic properties stemming from their shared material choices, with an engaging mixture of sharp and full sound while typographically engaging with either switch.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and KTT Hyacinth linear switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The EF Curry requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the lighter 45 grams of the KTT Hyacinth. This difference means that typists who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions may gravitate towards the Hyacinth for its reduced effort. Additionally, the bottom out force for the EF Curry is also higher at 60 grams, while the Hyacinth bottoms out at 56 grams. This further emphasizes the heavier push feel of the Curry, while the Hyacinth caters to those who favor a more forgiving tactile experience. Overall, the Hyacinth is lighter and better suited for those seeking comfort during prolonged use, while the EverFree Curry provides a stronger push sensation for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, a clear distinction emerges: the EverFree Curry has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hyacinth offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference reflects a broader trend in switch design, where shorter distances are often favored by gamers seeking quicker response times, as they can achieve faster actuation. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more tactile feel when typing, the Gateron EverFree's longer 4 mm travel distance may be more appealing. Therefore, if you prioritize rapid key presses and quick gameplay, opting for the Hyacinth would be advantageous, whereas the EverFree would suit users who appreciate a more traditional and 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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Hyacinth linear switches, the EverFree Curry is known for its balanced auditory profile, making it a versatile choice that aligns well with various typing environments. In contrast, the Hyacinth switch features a neutral sound signature, characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound profile that is neither too loud nor too soft. This makes it suitable for both casual users and professionals who might use it in office settings. Both switches have the potential to produce a pleasant sound experience, although the specific sound outcomes will largely depend on external factors such as the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps employed.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry offers a snappy and polished typing experience, thanks to its responsive action, which is influenced by the switch design and spring characteristics. The mild nature of these switches ensures a typing experience that feels gentle and approachable, making them an excellent option for users who may be sensitive to tactile extremes. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth is designed to deliver a silky smooth and subtle feel, minimizing resistance for an effortlessly light typing experience. This makes the Hyacinth particularly enjoyable for prolonged use, as it avoids the fatigue often associated with more pronounced switches. While both switches focus on a smooth typing experience, the EverFree emphasizes responsiveness, while the Hyacinth leans towards minimizing resistance and enhancing comfort.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and KTT Hyacinth linear switches present appealing options for newcomers exploring mechanical keyboards. The EverFree Curry excels in providing a snappy, polished, and mild typing experience, while the Hyacinth focuses on offering silky smoothness and subtlety in feel. Sound-wise, both switches cater to a balanced and neutral auditory experience, making them suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between these two will hinge on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus smoothness, but either option will yield a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that delivers a snappy and polished feel, with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 60 grams, the EverFree Curry would likely suit you well. Its reputation for providing a smooth, responsive experience makes it an excellent option if you prioritize an engaging typing experience, especially for gaming or fast typing tasks. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a lighter feel with a cushioned typing experience and want to avoid the harsh bottoming-out sensation, the KTT Hyacinth is designed just for that, featuring a medium-light bottom-out force of 56 grams. Its unique 3.5mm travel distance and silky smoothness make it an ideal choice for both leisurely typing and office environments, where a neutral sound profile can be advantageous. Ultimately, consider how you plan to use your keyboard and which characteristics—be it responsiveness or comfort—are most important to you.
Mentioned in this article
