Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, one can quickly see the differences in typing experience and characteristics. The EverFree Curry is praised for its smooth keystrokes and budget-friendly pricing, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and cost-effective linear switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump, perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and SP-Star Polaris Purple both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The EverFree Curry features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the switch.
In terms of sound production, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree Curry contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple maintains a sharper and crisper sound overall. The top housing material of both switches, being polycarbonate, ensures a clear and resonant sound profile and is ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting use. However, the difference in bottom housing material results in a noticeable contrast in sound when typing on each switch. This distinction allows for users to choose a switch based on their preference for sound.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the SP-Star Polaris Purple ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The EverFree Curry offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple maintains a consistently sharp and crisp sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing, providing a clear and resonant sound that is well-suited for RGB lighting. Whether you prefer a softer and more absorbing sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch. The EverFree has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the EverFree requiring 60 grams and the Polaris Purple needing 67 grams to bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the EverFree switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch provides a stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, both switches provide the same amount of key travel when pressed. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the keys travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, whether you choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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
Sound-wise, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch is described as having a snappy sound profile due to its big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience. The choice of keycaps and keyboard can also impact the sound produced by each switch.
When it comes to feel, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and Polaris Purple switches share characteristics of being polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. The EverFree (EF) Curry switch is further described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing feel. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch falls into the category of a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective qualities.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the EverFree (EF) Curry switch provides a cost-effective linear option with a neutral sound profile and snappy feel, the Polaris Purple switch stands out with its tactile bump, snappy sound profile, and mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a smoother keystroke with a medium bottom out force and a budget-friendly option, the EverFree Curry is the way to go. However, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you're looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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