Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Mars offer two distinct experiences for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The EverFree Curry is celebrated for its exceptional value, providing smooth and reliable linear action without breaking the bank. Its snappy and polished keystroke delivers a satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers and typists who still desire quality. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switches showcase an innovative design that utilizes a unique POK stem combined with a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, offering a refreshing take on the linear switch format. While the Mars may appeal to those looking for a cutting-edge feel and performance, the Curry stands out as a dependable choice for users prioritizing cost-effectiveness without sacrificing the experience. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Mars switches present a notable contrast in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it particularly appealing for users who favor clear and resonant audio feedback. The use of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch when RGB lighting is incorporated, as the material’s clarity allows the illumination to shine through vividly. In contrast, the Mars switch features a nylon top housing, a traditional material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder, mellower auditory experience that might be preferred by users looking for less sharpness in their keystrokes.
In terms of bottom housing, the EverFree (EF) Curry also integrates nylon, capitalizing on its sound-absorbing properties to complement the overall acoustic character of the switch. This results in a deeper and fuller output, enhancing the rounded sound profile initiated by the top housing's interaction. On the other hand, the Mars switch utilizes a POM bottom housing, known for engendering a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards deeper and more muted tones. The combination of the nylon top housing's absorption capabilities with the POM bottom housing's distinct sound further differentiates the two switches, influencing the sound signature experienced when pressing the keys.
In summary, the differing top housing materials define significant aspects of each switch's auditory characteristics—polycarbonate providing clarity and brightness for the EverFree (EF) Curry, while nylon delivers depth with the Mars. However, since both switches employ nylon in their bottom housing, this similarity allows for a consistent depth and fullness in the sound profile when bottoming out. Users can expect a unique experience when typing due to these nuanced differences in the materials, while still experiencing a baseline of similarity in sound absorption from the nylon used in both switches' bottom housings. Thus, while the switches have their distinct sound signatures, the overlapping use of nylon ensures that aspects of volume and depth remain somewhat aligned across the two offerings.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch present a notable contrast in actuation force, while the bottom out force of the Mars switch remains unknown. The EF Curry has a medium actuation force of 50 grams, which provides a balanced typing experience suited for both long work sessions and gaming. In comparison, the Mars is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing, as it requires less effort to register keystrokes. However, since the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unspecified, it’s difficult to directly compare their bottom-out experiences. The EF Curry's bottom out force is 60 grams, indicating a firmer feel when fully pressed down. Thus, if you prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions, the Mars switch would be the ideal choice, while those seeking a more substantial push feel should lean towards the EF Curry.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The EverFree (EF) Curry features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Mars has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on keys, users of the EverFree will experience a more pronounced depth, which can be preferable for those who favor a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the shorter distance of the Mars switch may appeal to gamers or those seeking quick response times due to the reduced actuation effort. Thus, while both switches cater to different user preferences, the EverFree Curry offers a deeper travel experience, whereas the Mars provides a more immediate engagement with the keys.
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 Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is not explicitly detailed but is generally characterized by a subtle and soft actuation, typical of linear switches. This results in a quieter typing experience, which is favored by users in shared spaces or those who prefer less auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron Mars switch haven’t been specified, but given its innovative design, it may produce a distinct tone influenced by its unique POK stem and housing materials. However, it's important to note that the ultimate sound quality of both switches can be affected by various factors, including the keyboard plate, construction, and chosen keycaps.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the EverFree (EF) Curry stands out with descriptors like "snappy," "polished," and "mild." The snappy responsiveness affords a lively typing experience, making it delightful for fast typing. The polished finish denotes a smooth key travel, likely due to high-quality materials or factory lubrication, which contributes greatly to a refined tactile feedback. Coupled with its mild characteristics, this switch offers a more approachable typing experience that can cater to a wide range of preferences. On the other hand, details about the feel of the Gateron Mars switch were not provided; therefore, it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this realm.
In conclusion, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch offers a well-rounded, smooth, and enjoyable typing experience marked by its snappy and polished characteristics, the Gateron Mars switch remains an enigma in terms of sound and feel qualities. If users prioritize a straightforward, reliable switch with an expected mildness in response, the EverFree Curry is an excellent choice. For those curious about the Mars switch, its innovative design hints at potential, though without specific attributes available, the decision may lean toward the EverFree for a known, consistent experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option that offers a smooth and polished typing experience with a moderate bottom-out force of 60 grams, the EverFree (EF) Curry is a fantastic choice. Its snappy and mild characteristics ensure an engaging yet comfortable feel, making it suitable for both everyday typing and gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you're drawn to innovative designs and materials, the Gateron Mars switches may pique your interest, especially if you're eager to explore the unique POK stem and nylon-POM blend housing. Although the Mars's bottom-out force remains unspecified, the curiosity surrounding its feel and performance could appeal to those looking for something different in their mechanical keyboard journey. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by what kind of typing experience resonates with you—whether it’s the well-rounded, polished feel of the EverFree Curry or the innovative allure of the Mars switches.
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