Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The EverFree Curry is a linear switch that provides a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, thanks to Gateron's proprietary mold. Known for its smooth keystrokes, this switch is ideal for those looking for reliability and affordability in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is also a linear switch but lacks specific information on its unique selling points. However, both switches offer different characteristics – the EverFree Curry being 'Snappy', 'Polished', and 'Mild', while the Silver is in a category of its own. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Silver, it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who want to showcase RGB lighting in their keyboard setups. The similarity in top housing material suggests that the sound and aesthetic experiences of both switches will be quite comparable.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes nylon, while the Outemu Silver also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches. Despite this distinction, both switches maintain the classic feel and sound associated with nylon bottom housings, offering a more muted and rounder sound profile during typing.
It's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials will have a noticeable impact on different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding how these materials interact within the switch design, users can better appreciate the nuanced differences in sound and feel between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Silver.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we find that the EverFree Curry has a slightly lighter actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Silver's 45 grams. However, the EverFree Curry requires a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Silver's 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range of force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silver may be a better choice due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the EverFree Curry with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch are both 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, it can be said that they provide a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent 4 mm travel distance, which can result in a similar typing or gaming experience for users. This means that whether you choose the EverFree Curry or the Outemu Silver, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of key press feel and travel distance.
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 Silver 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 Silver switches offer a relatively quiet typing experience, with slight variations depending on the keyboard and keycaps used. The EverFree (EF) Curry switches may have a slightly more muted sound due to Gateron's proprietary design, while the Silver switches are known for their minimal sound profile as well.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches are praised for their snappy and polished characteristics, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience. The mild feel of the switches makes them suitable for a wide range of users, offering a comfortable and reliable option for daily use. On the other hand, the specific feel of the Outemu Silver switches is unknown, but they are likely to provide a similar level of responsiveness and smoothness based on their linear design.
Overall, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Outemu Silver linear switches offer a cost-effective and quality option for those looking for a reliable linear switch. While the EverFree (EF) Curry switches have a known reputation for their smooth keystrokes and budget-friendly pricing, the Silver switches are a lesser-known option that may provide comparable results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you choose the EverFree Curry or the Silver switches, you can expect a reliable and satisfying typing experience from either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch or the Outemu Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a medium bottom out force and a smooth linear mechanism, the EverFree Curry switches from Gateron may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not as concerned with specific branding or reputation, the Silver switches from Outemu could suit your needs. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns more closely with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a reliable and satisfying typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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