Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, a linear switch, and the Bsun Olive, a tactile switch, offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The EverFree Curry stands out for its smooth and budget-friendly linear mechanism, providing a reliable and cost-effective typing experience. In contrast, the BSUN Olive switches are praised for their all-POM housings, delivering a deep, resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback for a satisfying 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Bsun Olive both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Olive's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their benefits, with polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, while POM provides an aesthetically pleasing sound profile. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Curry's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Olive's POM bottom housing offers a similarly pleasing sound profile.
In terms of overall sound profile, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry may have a crisper and more clear sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Bsun Olive may offer a more unique and deeper sound with its POM top housing. When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches provide a similar deep and full sound, as nylon and POM are known for their sound-absorbing qualities. However, the EverFree (EF) Curry's split housing materials may provide a more balanced sound experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Bsun Olive comes down to personal preference and the sound profile you are looking for in a switch. While the Curry may offer a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Olive provides a unique and deeper sound profile with its POM top housing. Both switches excel in creating a pleasing sound experience, with their housing materials contributing to their overall feel and acoustics. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch differ slightly in weight. The EF Curry has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The EF Curry is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Olive has a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing experience and desired level of force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we can see that the Curry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Olive has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Curry's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional and deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some users for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Olive's 3.4 mm travel distance offers a shallower feel, which can be advantageous for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing 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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch offer distinct experiences. The EverFree Curry switch is known for its quiet operation, providing a smooth and relatively muted typing sound. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch delivers a deeper, resonant sound with a satisfying tactile feedback that adds an extra layer of auditory satisfaction to the typing experience. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used, further enhancing the overall audio experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch offer unique tactile experiences. The EverFree Curry switch is characterized by its snappy and polished feel, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience that is gentle yet satisfying. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a distinct and pronounced tactile bump that adds a level of intensity to each keystroke. Both switches offer a different feel that caters to different preferences, ensuring that users can choose based on their personal typing style and preference for feedback intensity.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The EverFree Curry switch offers a budget-friendly linear option with a smooth keystroke and quiet operation, ideal for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch provides a resonant sound, deep tactile feedback, and an invigorating typing experience that is distinct and satisfying. Whether you prefer a smooth and polished feel or a sharp and intense tactile feedback, both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that provides a smooth keystroke and reliable performance, the EverFree Curry is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique tactile feedback, deep sound, and a satisfying typing experience, the Bsun Olive is the way to go. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision, and remember that both switches offer their own distinct advantages for different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what you value most in your typing experience.
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