Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Cream Blue stand out as popular options with distinct features to consider. The EverFree Curry, a linear switch, is best known for its excellent value in the linear switch market, offering a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. With a smooth keystroke and a reputation for reliability, it appeals to those looking for a dependable and cost-effective solution. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, does not have any specific standout features mentioned but is known for its distinct clicking sound and tactile feedback. While the EverFree Curry exudes qualities like being 'Snappy' and 'Polished', the Cream Blue's characteristics are not specified. When choosing between these switches, it's essential to consider factors such as your preference for linear or clicky switches and the type of typing experience you desire. 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
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Cream Blue, it can be seen that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. However, the top housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry consists of polycarbonate, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Cream Blue's nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material leads to a more clear and resonant sound in the EverFree (EF) Curry, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency.
On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing offers a more classic feel with a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite this, the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing shares similar characteristics with the EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing, providing that deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. The split in housing materials between top and bottom in these switches highlights how each material contributes to the overall sound profile and typing experience. This distinction can be felt when pressing down on the switch, as the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
While the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Cream Blue differ in their choice of top housing material, both switches ultimately offer a unique typing experience. The utilization of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings of the EverFree (EF) Curry contributes to its sharper and clearer sound profile, whereas the Cream Blue's all-nylon construction creates a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, showcasing how varying materials can impact the user experience.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The EF Curry has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance when pressing all the way down, while the Cream Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the EF Curry for a smoother typing experience, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance may result in a comparable typing experience for users of both switches. In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Cream Blue switches offer a consistent travel distance of 4mm, providing a familiar feel for those looking for a specific 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 Outemu Cream Blue 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, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Cream Blue switches have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch offers a quiet typing experience, making it suitable for environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Cream Blue clicky switch provides a satisfying click with each keystroke, creating an audibly engaging typing experience. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on whether you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience or enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is praised for its snappy and polished characteristics, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. The Cream Blue clicky switch, however, lacks specific descriptors in the provided information, so its tactile feel may vary. If we were to speculate based on the naming convention, the Cream Blue clicky switch may provide a more tactile and clicky typing experience compared to the linear feel of the EverFree (EF) Curry switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Outemu Cream Blue switches offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and potentially feel. The EverFree (EF) Curry switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, ideal for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective linear switch. On the other hand, the Cream Blue clicky switch delivers a more audibly engaging typing experience with potentially more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, it is important to note that both switches come from reputable brands and offer quality options within their respective switch types, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. The EverFree (EF) Curry is a great option if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth keystroke experience. It offers a budget-friendly solution without compromising on quality, making it an ideal choice for those looking for reliability and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch may appeal to you if you enjoy a clicky typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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