Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preferences can dramatically influence your experience, and two noteworthy options in the linear switch category are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Ice. The EverFree Curry stands out as a budget-friendly choice that does not skimp on quality, making it an appealing option for users who want a reliable, polished typing experience without breaking the bank. Its snappy and mild characteristics cater to those who value both efficiency and comfort in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches shine with their stunning crystal-clear design and feathery touch, providing a smooth yet clacky typing experience that elevates both gaming and daily typing tasks. While the EverFree Curry emphasizes reliability and value, the TTC Ice focuses on style and a premium 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
60g
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
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Ice switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp auditory experience. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for clear and resonant sound propagation. The translucency of the material further enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly for users who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setups. Both switches, therefore, promise a vibrant and bright illumination, enhancing the visual experience while preserving sound clarity during typing.
However, the differences in the bottom housing materials significantly influence the overall auditory experience of these switches. The EverFree (EF) Curry switch features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a relatively duller and rounder auditory feedback. In contrast, the TTC Ice uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which echoes the sharper qualities created by its top housing. This creates a more consistent sound profile across the switch, emphasizing clarity rather than depth when the keys bottom out.
In summary, while both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and TTC Ice switches share polycarbonate in their top housings, they diverge in their bottom housing materials, leading to different auditory outcomes. Users seeking a crisper, brighter sound will find satisfaction in both switches' top designs. However, those who prefer a richer, fuller sound will gravitate towards the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree Curry. Each switch, therefore, fulfills distinct auditory preferences owing to the contrasting characteristics of these housing materials, allowing users to choose according to their specific typing and sound desires.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that cater to different user preferences. The EverFree Curry has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Ice switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference suggests that the Ice switch would be more suitable for users who favor a lighter touch, making it easier to type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that users will experience a consistent resistance when bottoming out, regardless of the choice. Thus, while the EverFree Curry is slightly heavier in actuation force, both switches provide a comparable feel at their lowest mechanical point. Consequently, the TTC Ice is the lighter option overall, appealing to those who prefer a softer keystroke, while the EF Curry caters to those who desire a bit more resistance during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, it's clear that the EverFree Curry has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ice measures 3.6 mm. This makes the EverFree Curry the longer switch, providing a more traditional feel that some users may prefer for its pronounced depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Ice's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who favor rapid responsiveness, a characteristic sought after by gamers. Consequently, while both switches can deliver effective performance, the choice between them hinges on personal preference for either a more pronounced key press or a quicker response, with the EverFree Curry providing a more generous travel distance and the Ice offering a snappier tactile 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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch to the TTC Ice switch, distinct differences emerge. The EverFree Curry's sound profile is largely undetermined, leaving potential users to discover its auditory characteristics personally. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch offers a clacky sound, which can be described as sharp, crisp, and bright. This quality allows the Ice switches to provide an engaging auditory feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate for both gaming and daily typing tasks. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience will also be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry stands out with its combination of snappy responsiveness and a polished, mild typing experience. The snappy nature of the switch, attributed to its long or dual-staged springs, ensures a lively feedback as the keys bottom out, while its polished finish promotes a smooth and refined travel that minimizes friction. Meanwhile, the TTC Ice switches are characterized by their feathery touch, requiring minimal force for actuation, which makes them incredibly comfortable for long typing or gaming sessions. This lightness reduces fatigue, attracting users who prioritize comfort over a more tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and TTC Ice switches cater to different user preferences in terms of sound and feel, they each offer unique advantages. The EverFree Curry provides a snappy yet mild experience with an uncertain sound profile, making it an excellent choice for both everyday users and gamers seeking a reliable switch. On the other hand, the TTC Ice appeals to those who value a light, feathery feel combined with a satisfying auditory response, specifically for its clacky sound. Depending on your priorities, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit in notably different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Ice linear switches, your choice largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for an economical, reliable switch that excels in terms of a polished, snappy feel, the EverFree Curry is an excellent option, especially for budget-conscious users who still want a solid typing experience. Its characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of activities, whether gaming or regular typing. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a more distinct sound and a premium look, the TTC Ice switches may be your preference. Their clacky sound adds an engaging auditory feedback, while the feathery feel ensures minimal finger fatigue during extended use, making them perfect for those long gaming sessions or intensive writing tasks. Ultimately, consider the specific attributes that matter most to you—whether it's smooth, polished keystrokes or a crystal-clear design with a snappy sound—as both options offer unique advantages tailored to different types of users.
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