Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Perky both present distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The EverFree Curry switches are a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality, making them a great choice for users seeking a reliable and polished typing experience. Their linear design offers a smooth keystroke, ideal for both gaming and typing without any tactile bumps to disrupt the flow, designed for a "Snappy" and "Mild" touch. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches boast a softer, glittery nylon housing, providing a more condensed typing experience due to their shorter travel distance. Their unique characteristics give them a “Clacky” and “Silky” feel that many users find deeply satisfying for everyday use. While the EverFree Curry focuses on value and smoothness, Perky switches emphasize a pleasurable tactile 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Perky, it is evident that there is a fundamental difference in their top housings. The EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and inherent properties that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrasts with the HMX Perky, which employs a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. Thus, when you type on these switches, the auditory experience differs significantly, with the EverFree (EF) Curry offering a more resonant, bright sound and the Perky delivering a rounded, subdued tone.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which adds an interesting element to their comparison. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Perky deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile due to their nylon bottoms. This shared characteristic ensures that, despite the differences in their top housings, both switches have a similar underlying sound quality when pressed. This similarity denotes that their bottom-out sound and feel will reflect the absorbing quality of nylon, providing a satisfying tactile experience irrespective of their upper materials.
In terms of overall performance and sound profile, the contrasting effects of the top and bottom housing materials result in unique outcomes for each switch. For the EverFree (EF) Curry, its polycarbonate top housing brings a sharpness and clarity that is ideal for RGB lighting setups, while the nylon bottom creates a balanced sound. Conversely, the HMX Perky's nylon top and bottom housing combination results in a more cohesive, albeit duller sound. The differing impacts of the housing materials highlight how the sound signature can be fine-tuned based on the choice of materials in switches, ensuring that users can select a switch that matches their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Perky linear switches, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The EverFree Curry features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium option, while the HMX Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Perky switch more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less effort. Conversely, the EverFree Curry, with its heavier forces, may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced and substantial feel in their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches serve different user preferences, the EF Curry is the heavier option, and the HMX Perky is the lighter.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it is clear that these two options cater to different preferences. The EverFree Curry boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard and provides a more pronounced keypress feel. In contrast, the HMX Perky features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, which appeals to users seeking quicker response times, often favored by gamers. This shorter distance may, however, feel too abrupt for those who appreciate a more substantial depth while typing. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the HMX Perky would be the better choice, while the EverFree Curry would be suitable for those who enjoy a deeper and more tactile keypress 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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch maintains a position of neutrality. Its sound profile is generally quiet and unobtrusive, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switch offers a more pronounced auditory experience, characterized by its clacky sound. This sharp and snappy auditory feedback gives users a satisfying indication of key presses, enhancing the overall engagement during typing. So, while both switches have distinct sound characteristics, the EverFree (EF) Curry prioritizes a muted sound, whereas the Perky is designed to deliver a more lively acoustic response.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry stands out for its snappy, polished, and mild characteristics. This means it offers a responsive feel that excites the typing experience without overwhelming the user, thanks to its high-quality finishes and potentially dual-staged springs. The smoothness is enhanced through refined finishes or factory lubing, resulting in a comfortable typing experience. Conversely, the Perky switch also features a polished finish but adds a "silky" element to its feel. This translates to a very smooth key travel, minimizing resistance at all stages of the keystroke. While both switches provide a polished typing experience, the Perky leans towards a more fluid sensation with less friction, making it an attractive option for users who prioritize smoothness.
In summary, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and HMX Perky linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EverFree (EF) Curry excels with its subtle sound and responsive, polished feel, making it a reliable choice for users seeking a balanced experience. In contrast, the Perky switch offers an engaging clacky sound and an exceptional silky smoothness, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback and fluidity in their typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value auditory discretion or a more vibrant typing sound paired with seamless key travel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier key press that provides a responsive and "snappy" feel, the EverFree Curry with its bottom-out force of 60 grams might be the better option for you. Its polished and mild characteristics make it a reliable choice for users looking for a balanced typing experience, catering well to those who type for extended periods or engage in gaming. On the other hand, if you find yourself gravitating towards a lighter touch and a more condensed typing experience, the HMX Perky, with its bottom-out force of 50 grams, could be the ideal switch. Its silky smoothness and clacky sound profile provide a playful and satisfying feedback that can enhance your typing enjoyment, especially for light typists or those who appreciate a touch of auditory feedback with each keystroke. Thus, your ideal switch boils down to whether you want a more substantial feel with the EverFree Curry or the delicate touch of the HMX Perky.
Mentioned in this article
