Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The EF Curry offers a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on quality, providing a smooth keystroke experience that is ideal for those looking for reliability at a lower cost. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea switch doesn't have a specific highlight but is known for its tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Milk Tea both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing offers a bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks while typing.
In terms of bottom housings, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Milk Tea utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness helps absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice contributes to the overall typing experience and sound quality of the switches.
Despite their differences in top and bottom housing materials, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Milk Tea offer similar sound profiles, albeit with slight variations. The impact of each housing material is noticeable when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their choice of housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is the heavier of the two. The EverFree (EF) Curry switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Milk Tea switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The EverFree (EF) Curry switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. The weight of a switch is crucial as it affects typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Milk Tea switch for longer typing periods, while users seeking a more robust typing experience may lean towards the EverFree (EF) Curry switch. Ultimately, personal preference and typing habits will determine which switch is the better fit.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting these switches, both offer a similar tactile feel when typing due to their identical travel distances. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch. The uniformity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a reliable performance, with the only difference being the type of switch - linear for the EverFree Curry and tactile for the Milk Tea. Overall, whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, both the EverFree Curry and Milk Tea offer a consistent travel distance for a satisfying 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 Milk Tea 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
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EverFree (EF) Curry provides a smooth keystroke experience at an affordable price point, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch offers tactile feedback that some users may find enjoyable for typing or gaming. In terms of sound, both switches may produce similar noise levels depending on other factors like keycaps and keyboard build. When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry is known for its snappy and polished characteristics that make typing feel responsive and smooth. Meanwhile, the Milk Tea switch's feel remains unknown. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke and reliable performance, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches are a great choice. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a balance of tactile feedback without being too heavy. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a unique feel and sound, the Outemu Milk Tea switches might be more appealing to you, despite their unavailable bottom out force information. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for a linear or tactile typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
