Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both linear switches. The EverFree (EF) Curry is known for being a budget-friendly choice without compromising on quality, offering a smooth keystroke experience ideal for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 distinguishes itself by providing a crisper typing experience due to the removal of a rubber dampener, while still maintaining the hallmark frictionless typing feel that users love. Both switches are categorized as polished, but the EF Curry is described as snappy and mild, while the New North Pole V2 is considered creamy. Choosing between these two switches will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style; 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
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for the illumination to shine through. However, the EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 continues with a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout the switch.
Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the New North Pole V2 share the benefits of having polycarbonate top housings. These switches both provide a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile, with the ability to showcase RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency. The EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing upholds the sharp and resonant quality of the switch. Overall, the combination of these housing materials results in a unique sound experience for each switch.
When it comes to the tactile experience of pressing down and releasing a key, the impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry will provide a different sensation compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key, offering a distinctive sound profile based on whether it is polycarbonate or nylon. These subtle differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound quality of each switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch reveals that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the EverFree (EF) Curry has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the New North Pole V2 requires slightly more force to fully press the key compared to the EverFree (EF) Curry. While both switches fall into the medium weight category, the New North Pole V2 can be considered slightly heavier. This difference in bottom out force may provide a slightly different typing experience for users who prefer a more substantial push feel.Ultimately, if someone prefers a lighter typing experience, they may opt for the EverFree (EF) Curry, while those looking for a slightly firmer typing feel may prefer the New North Pole V2.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, it is clear that both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same amount of key travel. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and response when using either switch. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both have identical specifications. Overall, both switches provide a reliable and smooth typing experience with consistent travel distances.
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 New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches are known for their relatively quiet operation. However, the actual sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches are described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. They are also polished, delivering a smooth and refined key travel. This combination results in a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches also offer a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. They are further described as creamy, offering a buttery typing experience with a silky sensation. Additionally, the New North Pole V2 switches provide a frictionless typing feel, minimizing resistance and offering a fluid key press.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer high-quality linear switch options with distinct characteristics. The EverFree Curry switches provide a budget-friendly solution with a smooth and reliable keystroke, perfect for those looking for a cost-effective option. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switches offer a crisper typing experience without the rubber dampener, maintaining a frictionless and seamless glide for users who prefer a buttery and smooth key press. Ultimately, whether you choose the EverFree Curry or the New North Pole V2, you can expect a premium typing experience that meets your specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches, consider the following factors. If you value a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and prefer a smooth keystroke for a reliable typing experience, the EverFree Curry might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel and enjoy switches without rubber dampeners, the New North Pole V2 could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and typing feel to ensure you choose the perfect switch for your needs.
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