Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Orange mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EverFree Curry switch stands out for its budget-friendly option from a trusted brand like Gateron, providing a smooth and reliable linear keystroke experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch boasts a bouncy and frictionless typing feel, thanks to its long spring and factory-lubed design. While the EverFree Curry switch offers a polished and mild typing experience, the KTT Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with its unique housing materials. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Orange switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, the EverFree (EF) Curry stands out with its nylon bottom housing, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can impact the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. With the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, users can expect a dynamic sound profile that varies depending on whether they're pressing down or releasing a key. In contrast, the KTT Orange's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout both the top and bottom housings may result in a more uniform sound and feel while typing. Both switches offer their own unique qualities based on the housing materials chosen for construction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Orange will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing to achieve a sharp and clear sound, the distinction lies in the bottom housing material. Users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound may gravitate towards the EverFree (EF) Curry with its nylon bottom housing, while those seeking a consistent sound throughout may find the KTT Orange appealing with its all-polycarbonate construction. Overall, both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, we can see that the EverFree Curry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Orange's 46 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the EverFree Curry is also heavier at 60 grams compared to the Orange's 53 grams. This means that the EverFree Curry provides a slightly more substantial typing experience than the KTT Orange. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Orange may be the better option, as it has a lighter actuation and bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-light category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The EverFree Curry has a slightly longer travel distance, which may give a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which could be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the EverFree Curry being on the longer side and the KTT Orange on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and response time.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 linear switch offers a subtle and mild typing experience without any specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, which typically offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps attached.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is noted for its snappy and polished characteristics, providing a responsive and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Additionally, it is classified as mild, offering a safe and approachable typing feel suitable for most users. Meanwhile, the KTT Orange switch is described as bouncy and frictionless, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and effortless key travel experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the EverFree (EF) Curry switch emphasizes responsiveness and smoothness, the KTT Orange switch focuses on providing a lively and frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you are looking for similar results in terms of certain qualities, either switch could provide a satisfactory outcome based on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch or the KTT Orange linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a reliable and cost-effective option with a smooth keystroke and medium 60-gram bottom out force, the EverFree Curry is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy, frictionless typing experience with a medium-light 53-gram bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Orange switch would be the better choice for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so weigh your priorities and choose accordingly.
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