Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The EverFree Curry is a linear switch known for its smooth keystroke and budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying tactile bump and light actuation force. While the EverFree Curry is described as 'snappy', 'polished', and 'mild', the Phalaenopsis is characterized as 'bassy', 'stepped', and 'thocky'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Phalaenopsis feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, the EverFree (EF) Curry differs in its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis maintains a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to its sharp and crisp sound profile.
The contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Phalaenopsis is evident in the sound profile each switch produces. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis maintains a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a switch. Additionally, the combination of different housing materials in a switch can create a unique balance between depth and clarity in sound output.
In terms of design and functionality, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Phalaenopsis prioritize the use of polycarbonate in their top housings for its benefits in sound quality and aesthetics, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The choice of housing materials in these switches highlights the attention to detail and customization options available to keyboard enthusiasts. While the EverFree (EF) Curry opts for a nylon bottom housing to enhance the sound profile with deeper tones, the Phalaenopsis maintains consistency with a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper sound output. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for a switch can impact the overall typing experience and contribute to the unique characteristics of the keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Phalaenopsis is the lighter option. The EverFree Curry has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Phalaenopsis offers a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the EverFree Curry due to its heavier force requirements, providing a stronger push feel. On the other hand, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience for extended periods might find the Phalaenopsis more suitable. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for weight in keyboard switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches offer a consistent experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key press depth and overall typing feel when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches allows for a comfortable and reliable typing experience, whether you prefer the linear feel of the Curry switch or the tactile feedback of the Phalaenopsis switch.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 linear switch is typically characterized as having a smooth and consistent sound profile, maintaining a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for producing a bassy and thocky sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, but the Phalaenopsis switch may appeal more to users who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying sound during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is often described as snappy, polished, and mild, offering a responsive and refined typing experience with a gentle touch. In comparison, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is labeled as stepped, providing a more subtle tactile feedback compared to switches with a more pronounced bump. The stepped design gives users a unique typing sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages, enhancing the overall tactile experience.
Considering all available information, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches cater to specific preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth linear keystrokes, the EverFree Curry switch is a reliable and budget-friendly option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying sound profile and stepped feedback, the Phalaenopsis switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and individual typing style when choosing between these two excellent switch options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth linear keystroke, the EverFree Curry may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a satisfying tactile bump with a distinctive sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it is important to choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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