Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, you will be faced with two excellent linear switch options. The EverFree Curry offers a budget-friendly choice without compromising on quality, providing a smooth keystroke experience that is ideal for those seeking reliability and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro stands out with its buttery smoothness, low "thocky" sound, and satisfying resistance, making it a versatile option for both gaming and typing needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. Therefore, both the EF Curry and Milky Yellow Pro offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The EF Curry features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon top housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder compared to polycarbonate.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities, the EF Curry with its polycarbonate top housing may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound that is more absorbent, the Milky Yellow Pro with its nylon top housing might be the preferred option. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the material of their top and bottom housing, providing users with different sound profiles to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the EverFree Curry requires 60 grams of force, while the Milky Yellow Pro needs 62 grams, making the EverFree Curry slightly lighter in terms of pressing all the way down. This difference in bottom out force may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, the EverFree Curry would be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches provide a medium actuation and bottom out force, catering to a wide range of preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom of the switch. This similarity ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a shorter travel distance compared to switches with longer travel distances. Overall, the travel distance of both switches allows for quick and responsive keystrokes, making them ideal for fast typists or gamers looking for precise keypress feedback.
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 Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stands out for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, offering a pleasing thocky sound that is both deep and rich. This sound profile adds a satisfying auditory experience to typing and gaming sessions, making it a popular choice for budget enthusiasts. On the other hand, the sound profile of the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is not specified, but given its linear mechanism, it can be inferred that it may offer a smoother and quieter sound compared to the Milky Yellow Pro.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild, providing a responsive typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. The combination of these qualities offers a comfortable and approachable feel that would cater to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is known for its buttery and textured feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that some users may prefer over the more polished feel of the EverFree Curry switch.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) offer excellent value in the linear switch market, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow Pro excels in providing a satisfying thocky sound with a buttery keystroke feel, the EverFree Curry offers a snappier and more polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and budget constraints.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a reliable linear mechanism and medium bottom out force, then the EverFree Curry is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic budget switch with smoothness, a low-pitched sound profile, and a buttery feel, then the Milky Yellow Pro is the perfect choice for you. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and advantages, so consider what matters most to you in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience before making your decision. Ultimately, you can't go wrong with either of these Gateron switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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