Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Brown. The EverFree Curry, a linear switch, is praised for its budget-friendly yet high-quality design, offering a smooth keystroke experience ideal for those looking for reliability at a lower cost. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, offers a different typing experience with its tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, providing users with options to cater to their specific preferences. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Brown switches share similar characteristics as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing aspect to the keyboard setup. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material, with the EverFree (EF) Curry featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Brown switch also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Brown may offer slightly different typing experiences due to the allocation of housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound overall. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Brown switch will also provide a similar typing experience, eliciting a deep and full sound profile, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. This shared bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In the overall typing experience of these switches, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke. The qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two switches, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile feel. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound when releasing a key, offering a different auditory experience. Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Brown switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both have medium actuation forces, with the EF Curry requiring 50 grams of force and the Brown needing 53 grams. However, the bottom out force of the EF Curry is lighter at 60 grams compared to the Brown's heavier 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the EF Curry may be the better option, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Brown switch. Overall, the EverFree (EF) Curry is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Outemu Brown switch provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, meaning they both travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. This means that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on both switches, as they have an equal amount of travel. The similarity in travel distance makes it so that users can expect comparable results in terms of keypress feedback and overall typing experience when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and uniform travel distance, providing a reliable typing experience for users.
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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is known for providing a soft and muted sound compared to other linear switches on the market. This can be attributed to its smooth keystroke and design, making it a quiet option for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is recognized for its subtle tactile bump that creates a quiet and satisfying sound upon actuation. Both switches offer relatively quiet typing experiences, making them suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is praised for its snappy and polished typing experience. The combination of a responsive keystroke and smooth finish makes typing on these switches feel lively and refined. Additionally, the mild characteristics of the switch create a comfortable typing sensation that is approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch provides a tactile feedback that is gentle yet noticeable, offering a pleasant typing experience without being too demanding on the fingers. The slight bump in the keystroke adds a layer of tactile feedback that many users find enjoyable.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EverFree (EF) Curry stands out for its smooth and quiet operation, making it a great option for those seeking a reliable linear switch with a touch of sophistication. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown offers a gentle tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience without being too loud or distracting. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. As both switches offer similar qualities such as quiet operation, users can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of noise levels when typing on either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth keystroke, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry would be a great option for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium actuation force that is not too heavy on the fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Brown switch would be more suitable for you. The Brown switch offers a tactile bump that provides feedback while typing, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision should come down to whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, as well as the specific bottom out force that feels most comfortable for you.
Mentioned in this article
