Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, you'll find yourself faced with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The EverFree Curry linear switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes and budget-friendly nature, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize reliability and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch stands out for its comfortable tactility and clean bottom-out sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Matcha both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, allowing for a visually appealing experience. However, the EverFree (EF) Curry differs in its bottom housing material, utilizing nylon instead. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
While the top housing of both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Matcha is made of polycarbonate, providing a consistent sharper and crisper sound profile, the bottom housings differ significantly. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, offering a unique typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile that differs from the sharper sound produced by the stiffer polycarbonate material. These contrasting qualities in the bottom housing materials showcase the different sound profiles that can be achieved in switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Matcha play a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While they both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp, higher-pitched sound, the distinction lies in the bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha retains a sharper and crisper sound profile. Understanding how the different housing materials impact sound and feel can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch both offer different weights in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The EverFree Curry has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more medium resistance. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Matcha, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the EverFree Curry. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the weight that suits their typing preferences best.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, we find that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the EF Curry and Matcha switches offer a similar typing experience. It's worth noting that the travel distance of these switches is just one factor to consider when deciding between the two.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 and the KTT Matcha offer distinct auditory experiences. The Curry switch's sound profile is known for being smooth and relatively quiet due to its linear mechanism, providing a pleasant typing atmosphere without much noise. On the other hand, the Matcha switch is characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound can influence the overall typing experience, with the Curry switch offering a more subdued option while the Matcha switch provides a more pronounced auditory feedback.
When considering the feel of the switches, the EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Matcha showcase unique tactile qualities. The Curry switch is known for its snappy and polished feel, offering a responsive typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This switch falls within the mild category, providing a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Matcha switch features a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. With a two-stage tactile feedback, this switch offers a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle, providing a balance between feedback and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Matcha switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Curry switch excels in providing a quiet and linear typing experience with a smooth keystroke, ideal for those seeking reliability and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, the Matcha switch offers a more tactile and auditory feedback with its clacky sound and stepped tactility, providing a unique typing sensation for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. Both switches offer quality options depending on individual preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style and preferences effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a smooth keystroke and a budget-friendly option without compromising quality, the EverFree Curry may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a comfortable, snappy tactility and a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Matcha with 45 grams could be more suitable for you compared to the EverFree Curry with 60 grams. Ultimately, it boils down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Make sure to choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal keyboarding experience.
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