Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, your preferences can greatly influence your typing experience. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry is a standout option in the linear switch category, known for its exceptional value and smooth keystrokes, making it a top choice for users who prioritize a seamless and reliable typing experience. Its polished and snappy feel caters well to gamers and typists alike who appreciate consistency without any tactile distractions. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade offers an entirely different experience as a clicky switch, providing auditory feedback with each keystroke that many users find satisfying and engaging. While the Blue Jade may lack specific acclaim, its clicky nature can enhance the tactile engagement for those who enjoy more of a traditional typing sensation often favored for typing and coding. Both switches have their unique merits: the EF Curry for its smoothness and affordability, and the Blue Jade for its delightful sound and tactile response. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Blue Jade switches demonstrate distinct differences in their top housing materials, which greatly influence their sound profiles. The EverFree Curry features a polycarbonate top housing that is notable for producing a sharper and crisper sound, attributed to the material's stiffer nature. This enables a more resonant auditory experience, particularly when using RGB lighting, as the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of light. In contrast, the Blue Jade utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This material absorbs vibrations more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a more subdued auditory feedback during typing, which some users may prefer for a quieter typing experience.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches opt for nylon material, leading to a shared characteristic in terms of sound dampening and a fuller auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing in the EverFree (EF) Curry ensures that when users press down on the switch, they experience a sound profile that leans towards a duller roundness, similar to the Blue Jade. This shared aspect in their bottom housing design means that both switches will offer a comparable sensation and sound when bottoming out, reinforcing the plush and satisfying feel during usage. The duality of differing top and similar bottom housing materials ultimately creates a rich interplay between the two switches.
In summary, while the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Blue Jade switches both incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, their contrasting top housing materials fundamentally change their sound signatures. The polycarbonate top of the EverFree creates a more vibrant and lighting-friendly experience, whereas the nylon top of the Blue Jade promotes a fuller and quieter typing sound. Despite these differences, the utilization of nylon in the bottom housing assures that users will enjoy a similar sound profile upon actuation, providing a balance between clarity and resonance. This blend of materials underscores the importance of housing composition in determining the overall aesthetic and auditory experience of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them feel similar in terms of the force needed to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces reveal a distinction: the EverFree Curry has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Blue Jade requires a heavier 65 grams to bottom out. This means that, while both switches are equally light in terms of actuation, the Blue Jade offers a slightly heavier push feel when fully pressed down. For users who prefer lighter switches to reduce fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions, the EverFree Curry may be the better choice. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and don't mind a bit of extra force might opt for the heavier Blue Jade switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both share the same travel distance of 4 mm, resulting in a similar keypress experience when it comes to the distance you feel as you press down on a key. This equal travel distance means that users should expect a comparable feel in terms of depth and actuation when using either switch, facilitating ease of transition for those who might switch between the two. With both switches measuring the same, they present users with identical travel characteristics, making them alike in this critical aspect of performance.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The sound characteristics of the EverFree (EF) Curry switch remain unspecified, but they are typically associated with linear switches, which tend to produce a quieter noise level compared to their tactile or clicky counterparts. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for delivering a distinct and pronounced click sound when actuated. This auditory feedback is satisfying for many users who enjoy the audible confirmation of their keystrokes, making it a popular choice among typists who appreciate a more engaging sound profile. However, the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which are variables that may affect each switch's output.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the EverFree (EF) Curry offers a unique combination of attributes. Described as snappy, polished, and mild, this switch provides a responsive typing experience that feels alive due to its dual-staged springs. The polished finish enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, resulting in reduced friction and a refined experience. The mild nature of the switch makes it approachable for most users, offering an excellent balance for those who prefer a smooth, gentle typing experience without overpowering sensations. On the other hand, the feel of the Blue Jade remains unclear, limiting any direct comparison. However, it can be assumed that the clicky feedback may introduce a more tactile experience, contrasting with the linear feel of the EverFree switches.
In conclusion, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch stands out for its polished and responsive qualities while remaining budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for users seeking smooth action and a gentle typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch appeals to those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke, thus providing a more engaging typing experience. While sound characteristics of the EverFree switches are unclear, it is vital to remember that personal preference plays a significant role in the choice of switches, with both options catering to different user needs and styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and use case. If you value a smooth, polished feel and a solid yet gentle typing experience, the EF Curry would be your best bet. Its 60-gram actuation makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, providing comfort and responsiveness while remaining budget-friendly. This switch is ideal for both casual users and gamers who appreciate a more linear approach without extreme resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback and an audible click that adds an extra layer of engagement to your typing experience, the Outemu Blue Jade may be the right choice for you. With a slightly heavier actuation force of 65 grams, the Blue Jade’s clicky mechanism can enhance your enjoyment if you find satisfaction in hearing and feeling each keystroke. Whether you're programming, gaming, or typing up documents, your choice between these two switches will ultimately boil down to the specific feedback and feel that resonate with your typing style.
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