Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Ink Box Black offer distinct experiences for users. The EverFree (EF) Curry stands out for its excellent value within the linear switch market, thanks to Gateron's proprietary mold and budget-friendly pricing. It provides a smooth keystroke ideal for those looking for a reliable and cost-effective solution from a trusted brand. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is praised for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a unique sound signature that resembles a shaking spray paint can. While the Curry is described as 'Snappy', 'Polished', and 'Mild', the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, each switch offers its own set of advantages and characteristics, so it's important to delve deeper into their specific features to determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Ink Box Black, it is evident that they both have unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The EverFree (EF) Curry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, thanks to its stiffness, while the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a slightly less sharp but still satisfying clacky sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of the polycarbonate in the EF Curry switch allows for RGB lighting effects, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black offers a sleek and modern look.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the EF Curry switch provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone. In contrast, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its high-pitched clacky sound, providing a unique typing experience. While both switches have different bottom housing materials, they each offer distinct sound qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Ink Box Black play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of each switch. Whether it be the sharp and crisp sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the EF Curry or the clacky sound of the INK blend housing in the Ink Box Black, each material brings its own unique characteristics to the table. While the switches may have differences in their housing materials, they both offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a similar medium weight bottom out force, with the EverFree Curry requiring 60 grams and the Ink Box Black needing 70 grams. This means that while the EverFree Curry provides a lighter typing experience at the start of a keystroke, the Ink Box Black offers a slightly heavier feel throughout the keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the EverFree Curry may be the better choice. However, those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit for individual preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the EverFree Curry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Ink Box Black. The EverFree Curry offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for individuals looking for a quicker response time. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, with the EverFree Curry offering a deeper press and the Ink Box Black providing a faster response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 is known for its sound signature, which is often described as unknown. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is recognized for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the EverFree Curry's sound profile remaining a mystery.
Moving on to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry is praised for its snappy, polished, and mild typing experience. These qualities make the switch responsive, smooth, and approachable to most users, ensuring a pleasant typing sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Box Black is applauded for its silky and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. While both switches prioritize smoothness in their feel, the EverFree Curry leans towards a snappier and more polished typing experience compared to the Ink Box Black's focus on silkiness.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches showcase distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The EverFree Curry stands out for its budget-friendly linear mechanism and reliable keystroke, making it an excellent value option in the linear switch market. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black impresses users with its smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a clacky and high-pitched sound signature. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can elevate your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing sensations you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and a more snappy and polished feel, the EverFree Curry might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams and a silky smooth feel, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to weigh these factors carefully before making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
