Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to various options based on tactile feel, acoustic signature, and overall performance. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Haimu Orange Sea, both linear switches, offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The EverFree Curry stands out as an exceptional value in the linear switch market, delivering a snappy, polished, and mild typing experience that emphasizes smooth keystrokes without compromising quality, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound profile, appealing to those who desire a more muted auditory experience while typing. Both switches provide distinct advantages—whether it’s the affordability and reliability of the EverFree Curry or the refined smoothness of the Orange Sea. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Haimu Orange Sea both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a distinctive sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched tones. This choice of material is significant, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound. In addition to its auditory benefits, polycarbonate's translucency allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setups. Both switches, therefore, will perform similarly when it comes to the upper sound characteristics and visual appeal, providing a crisp auditory experience when keys are released.
On the bottom end, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Haimu Orange Sea employ nylon, a well-respected material in the mechanical switch community known for its unique acoustic properties. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, producing a deeper and fuller sound signature. As a result, the switching experience for both models will be characterized by a rich bottom-out sound that absorbs some of the harshness that can come from more rigid materials. This similarity in bottom housing materials means that typists can expect a rounder and more muted sound profile from both switches.
The differentiation between the top and bottom housings in both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Haimu Orange Sea creates a well-rounded auditory experience. While the polycarbonate top contributes to the higher-pitched and clearer sounds when keys are released, the nylon bottom complements this by offering deeper tones during key presses. This combination ensures that, despite the contrasts between the two materials, the overall typing sensation remains cohesive. Users can maneuver both switches with the knowledge that they'll receive a balanced sound experience: crisp highs from the polycarbonate tops and rich lows from the nylon bottoms. Thus, both switches cater to enthusiasts who are looking for a blend of clarity and depth in their keyboard interactions.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, it's clear that they differ significantly in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The EverFree Curry features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which classify it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Orange Sea is lighter, with an actuation force of only 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the EverFree Curry requires a stronger push to actuate and bottom out, making it more suitable for users who prefer a substantial typing experience. Conversely, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Orange Sea cater to those who favor comfort during long typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the EverFree Curry offers a heavier touch, while the Orange Sea presents a lighter, more delicate feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, a notable difference in travel distance emerges. The EverFree Curry has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Orange Sea features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the EF Curry provides a more traditional feel, which some users may prefer for its hearty depth and tactile reassurance. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Orange Sea aligns with contemporary gaming trends, offering potentially quicker response times and agility for fast-paced gameplay. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference, with the EverFree Curry being better suited for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke, while the Orange Sea caters to users who favor a snappier, more responsive 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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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 switch is generally characterized by its neutral sound profile, effectively reducing any auditory distractions while typing. This makes it a versatile option for various setups, whether at home or in an office environment. The Haimu Orange Sea switch, on the other hand, is known for its impeccably smooth auditory experience, which can further enhance the typing environment. However, remember that the overall sound is heavily influenced by external factors such as the keyboard plate material and keycap choices. While both switches aim for a discreet auditory presence, the subtle differences may appeal to different personal preferences.
When evaluating the feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry stands out due to its snappy responsiveness, polished finish, and mild characteristics. The snappiness comes from its well-engineered springs, providing a lively typing experience that many users enjoy. The polished design reduces friction, resulting in a smooth key travel that enhances typing efficiency. The mild nature of these switches makes them approachable for all types of users, blending comfort with performance. The Haimu Orange Sea's feel remains unknown, which leaves an open question for those curious about its tactile experience.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Haimu Orange Sea switches present valuable options within the linear switch category, each catering to different user preferences. The EverFree Curry notably delivers a well-rounded typing experience with its smooth, polished, and responsive attributes while maintaining a neutral sound profile. Meanwhile, the Orange Sea promises an impeccably smooth typing experience and a neutral sound signature but lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel. Ultimately, if you favor reliable performance while being budget-conscious, the EverFree Curry may be the standout choice. However, if smoothness in both feel and sound is a priority, the Orange Sea could be worth exploring further.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Haimu Orange Sea switches, your choice will largely depend on your typing preferences and what you prioritize in a switch. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force with a more tactile feedback, the EverFree (EF) Curry is an excellent option. Its snappy feel and polished finish provide a responsive and refined typing experience, making it suitable for both gaming and typing tasks where you want a bit more force in your keystrokes. This switch, being budget-friendly yet reliable, is perfect for newcomers looking to invest in a solid mechanical keyboard without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a smoother and more neutral sound signature, the Haimu Orange Sea would be your best bet. Its lower actuation force not only reduces finger fatigue over long typing sessions but also enhances comfort for users who prefer a softer key feel. In essence, if you cherish a streamlined experience that focuses on effortless keypresses, the Orange Sea is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches should align with your personal preference for weight, feedback, and overall typing feel.
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