Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Poro largely hinges on personal preference and budget. The EverFree (EF) Curry, known for its excellent value in the linear switch market, offers smooth keystrokes and a reliable performance without breaking the bank, making it an ideal option for gamers and typists alike who prioritize quality at a cost-effective price point. Its 'snappy' and 'polished' characteristics provide a pleasant typing experience that instills confidence in every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro stands out with its meticulously lubricated mechanism, promising an effortlessly smooth glide complemented by a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, thanks in part to its ultra-light actuation force. This makes the Poro an appealing choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a luxurious typing feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and HMX Poro switches showcase a fundamental contrast in their top housing selections, which significantly influences their overall sound profiles. The EverFree (EF) Curry employs a polycarbonate material for its top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, leading to a sharper and crisper sound. This choice makes the switch particularly favorable for showcasing RGB lighting effects, as polycarbonate's clarity allows light to diffuse more effectively. In contrast, the HMX Poro features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more efficiently, resulting in a deeper and rounder audio profile. This difference highlights how the choice of top housing material can dramatically alter the auditory experience when typing, influencing not only sound clarity but also the aesthetics when paired with lighting.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material's inherent softness is beneficial in absorbing sound vibrations, resulting in a more muted and rounded audio experience. This shared characteristic means that, despite their different top housing materials, users can expect a consistency in the low-end acoustics that the nylon bottom housing delivers. When typing on either switch, the softness of the nylon contributes significantly to their overall tactile feedback, as the bottom housing's qualities will dominate the sound produced when the keys bottom out. The similarity here is a vital factor in how users perceive the overall audio experience of each switch.
Ultimately, the literary and auditory impact is defined by the interplay between the top and bottom housings in each switch. The EverFree (EF) Curry's polycarbonate top enhances the higher-pitched sounds associated with key release, while the nylon bottom muffles deeper sounds when the key is pressed down. In contrast, the HMX Poro's nylon top and bottom combination results in a consistently fuller auditory experience that lacks the sharper edges of the EF Curry's sound profile. Therefore, while both switches share the same nylon material for the bottom housing—and thus create similar deeper sound profiles—the contrast in top housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. Understanding these dynamics allows users to choose a switch that best fits their desired sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch to the HMX Poro linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the differences in weight and feel are quite pronounced. The EverFree Curry requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Poro is noticeably lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Poro a more suitable option for those who prefer a lightweight switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the EverFree Curry may appeal to users looking for a more substantial feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, if you’re seeking a lighter experience for comfort, the HMX Poro stands out, whereas the Gateron EverFree Curry caters to those who favor a stronger push.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the EF Curry offers a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, which can be appealing to those who enjoy a deeper keypress. On the other hand, the Poro's 3.7 mm travel caters to users who prefer a more responsive switch, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation—especially beneficial in gaming scenarios. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness and quicker responses during gameplay, the Poro may be the better choice. Conversely, for users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress and stable feedback, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch would be ideal due to its greater travel distance. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the EF Curry boasts a longer travel distance, making it the better option for those seeking depth in their typing 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 Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro 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
The sound profile of the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is notably subdued, making it a choice that prioritizes a quieter typing experience. While the specific audio characteristics of the Poro linear switch have not been detailed, it is noted to feature a “poppy and clacky” sound profile. This suggests that the Poro switch may provide a more pronounced acoustic signature than the EverFree, which can appeal to those who enjoy a more responsive auditory feedback during typing. However, it's important to remember that sound can vary significantly depending on the keyboard plate, housing, and keycap materials utilized.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch excels with its snappy response, polished finish, and mild actuation characteristics. This combination offers a typing experience that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and smoothness, appealing to users looking for an all-around approachable switch. In contrast, the feel of the HMX Poro linear switch has not been elaborated upon, leaving an unknown in this comparison. The smooth and effortless glide mentioned for the Poro could indicate a comfortable typing experience, with a level of lubrication designed to minimize friction.
Overall, when considering both Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and HMX Poro linear switches, the EverFree excels in providing a well-rounded experience with notable snappiness and smoothness, while the Poro may offer a more lively and perhaps noisier profile. If you're seeking a linear switch that combines quality and value, the EverFree is a strong contender. On the other hand, if auditory feedback and potentially different tactile responses are your priorities, the Poro may cater to those needs, though its specific qualities remain to be confirmed. Ultimately, either choice can lead to enjoyable typing experiences, depending on personal preferences and gaming or typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the HMX Poro linear switches ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and what you prioritize in your keyboard experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a responsive and polished feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry is an excellent option; it offers a snappy and mild typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback. This makes it well-suited for those who need a reliable switch for everyday use, whether for typing or gaming, without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with an effortlessly smooth keystroke, the HMX Poro is your go-to choice. Its lighter bottom out force of 50 grams provides a more delicate typing experience, enhanced by its meticulously lubricated internals, making it ideal for users who relish a gliding sensation with a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. In the end, your decision should reflect whether you want the snappy reliability of the EverFree (EF) Curry or the lightweight luxury of the HMX Poro; either way, you’ll have a solid switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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