Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the PH Studio Jacaranda mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The EverFree Curry is renowned for its affordability and smooth linear keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective option from a reputable brand like Gateron. On the other hand, the Jacaranda from PH Studio boasts a gentle bottom-out force, creating a fatigue-free typing experience with a distinct clacky sound profile. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda also adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, elevating the overall typing experience. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the PH Studio Jacaranda, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This means that both the EF Curry and the Jacaranda will provide a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the EF Curry uses nylon while the Jacaranda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon has a reputation for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as it absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to their nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a more cushioned and impactful typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the PH Studio Jacaranda contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound, making typing on them feel more cushioned and impactful. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in these switches creates a well-rounded typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch. The EverFree (EF) Curry requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, giving it a medium weight feel. In contrast, the Jacaranda only requires 39 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jacaranda would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, the EverFree (EF) Curry would provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Jacaranda has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the EverFree Curry. In general, shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches provide a good balance between the traditional 4 mm and the shallower 3 mm travel distances, offering a versatile option for different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a slightly shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming 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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 offers a sound profile that is not explicitly described in the provided information, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is noted for its clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. The clacky nature of the Jacaranda switch suggests a more tactile and sharp sound compared to the EverFree Curry, offering users a different auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches would depend on individual preference, with the Jacaranda likely appealing to those who enjoy a sharper sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is characterized as snappy, polished, and mild, offering a responsive typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that provides reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is described as silky, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The difference in feel between the two switches lies in the snappy and polished nature of the EverFree Curry versus the silky smoothness of the Jacaranda, catering to users who prefer a livelier typing experience versus those who prioritize smooth key actuation.
Considering all available information, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table. The EverFree Curry offers a budget-friendly option with a smooth keystroke, ideal for those seeking reliability and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, the Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out, clacky sound, and extended spring, providing a bouncy sensation and fatigue-free typing experience. While the sound and feel of these switches differ, both cater to specific preferences and offer distinct advantages to users looking for a tailored typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a smooth keystroke at a budget-friendly price point, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with an extended spring, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch from PH Studio may be the better option for you. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Mentioned in this article
