Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Pine both stand out for their unique qualities. The EverFree Curry is a linear switch known for its affordability and quality, offering a smooth keystroke experience that is ideal for those on a budget. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is also a linear switch but is characterized by a medium-heavy feel and buttery smooth action, making it perfect for those looking for a more luxurious 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Pine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that feature RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housings. The EverFree Curry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining consistency with its top housing material.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both the EverFree Curry and the KTT Pine offer unique sound profiles due to their choice of housing materials. While the Curry's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile. These distinctions in sound are important to consider for users looking to personalize their typing experience. Furthermore, the impact of the housing materials extends beyond just sound, as they also influence the overall feel of the switch when typing. The top housing material affects the sound when pressing and releasing a key, while the bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
In conclusion, while the EverFree Curry and the KTT Pine share a polycarbonate top housing that enhances their sound profiles, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. This decision results in distinct sound and feel characteristics for each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Curry provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the sharper and crisper sound produced by the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, understanding the role of housing materials in switch design is essential for users seeking to customize their typing experience based on sound and feel preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that they both fall within the medium range. The EverFree (EF) Curry has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Curry requires 60 grams while the Pine needs 58 grams, making the Pine slightly heavier in this aspect. Despite these differences, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of weight, allowing users to type for longer periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and response. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the KTT Pine linear switches offer the same level of keypress consistency and tactile 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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches have a sound profile that is not specified in the provided information. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches are described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This can provide a satisfying auditory feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound during typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of typing, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches are described as snappy, polished, and mild. These characteristics suggest that the keystrokes are responsive, smooth due to a refined finish, and offer a gentle typing experience that can be appreciated by most users. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches are described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation with uniform key travel. This can give typists a luxurious and seamless typing experience that feels like gliding across the keys with ease.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches offer a budget-friendly option from a reliable brand in the industry, providing a smooth linear mechanism ideal for those looking for a cost-effective solution. Their sound profile and typing feel may vary depending on personal preferences and external factors. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches present a medium-heavy switch that is polished and factory-lubed for minimized friction and smooth key travel. With a focus on an effortless typing experience, these switches are designed to offer a buttery and crisp feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the EverFree Curry may be the way to go. Its smooth keystrokes and medium bottom out force make it a reliable and cost-effective choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a slightly lower bottom out force, the Pine switch might be more suited to your preferences. With its factory-lubed finish and effortless key travel, the Pine offers a luxurious typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you choose the EverFree Curry or the Pine, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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