Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to enhance your typing experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can significantly impact both usability and satisfaction. The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches stand out in the linear switch category as a budget-friendly yet high-quality option, thanks to Gateron's proprietary mold and the snappy, polished feel they provide. These switches are tailored for users who prefer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, making them ideal for those seeking reliability at an affordable price. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switches introduce a unique hall effect mechanism, characterized by a satisfyingly deep sound and a balanced typing experience that prioritizes precision and smoothness. Their compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards further appeals to enthusiasts looking for versatility and advanced performance. Both switches have their distinct advantages, appealing to different preferences and needs in the mechanical keyboard realm. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Everglide Rice Pudding, it's clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This resemblance means that both switches will produce a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a clear resonance, especially when combined with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal and sound characteristics. Consequently, users can expect a lively, dynamic response that captures the essence of mechanical key switches, making both options favorable for enthusiasts who appreciate these features.
Despite their similarities, the distinct characteristics of the nylon bottom housing set each switch apart in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon used in both the EverFree (EF) Curry and Rice Pudding contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, differing significantly from the brightness of the polycarbonate tops. This interaction between the softer nylon material in the bottom housing and the stiffer polycarbonate top results in a unique typing experience. While the top housing dictates the sound upon releasing a key, the nylon bottom absorbs sound and provides a more rounded and subdued audio feedback upon bottoming out. Thus, while their top materials create a common acoustic foundation, the bottom housings introduce individual personality to each switch.
Ultimately, although the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Everglide Rice Pudding share the same materials for their top and bottom housings, the interaction between these components leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches creates a harmonious balance, with the polycarbonate enhancing brightness and clarity, and the nylon delivering warmth and depth. Thus, users seeking either switch can expect a well-rounded performance, though they might prefer one over the other based on personal sound and feeling preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying user preferences. The EverFree (EF) Curry switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range of switch weights. In contrast, the Rice Pudding switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. For users who prioritize lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Rice Pudding will likely be the more suitable choice. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel during typing will appreciate the heavier forces of the EverFree (EF) Curry. In summary, the Gateron EverFree switch offers a more robust typing experience, while the Everglide Rice Pudding is ideal for those seeking a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the EverFree Curry the longer of the two switches, offering a more substantial key press that some users might prefer for its more pronounced feel. In contrast, the Rice Pudding, with its 3.5 mm travel distance, caters to those who favor quicker response times, making it an ideal option for gamers who prioritize speed. If you're looking for a lighter and more immediate feedback during typing or gaming, the shorter travel of the Rice Pudding could be beneficial; however, if you enjoy a deeper and more comforting engagement with each keystroke, the EF Curry's longer travel distance may be the better choice for you.
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 Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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 switches tend to offer a sound profile that aligns with their linear design, providing a quieter typing experience compared to their tactile or clicky counterparts. This makes them ideal for environments where noise can be a distraction. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switches produce a deeper sound, which contributes to a more pronounced auditory feedback that some users find satisfying. The differences in sound may also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, meaning that both switches can produce unique auditory experiences based on individual setups.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches are characterized by their snappy responsiveness, polished finish, and a mild typing experience. This combination ensures that every keystroke is engaging without feeling overwhelming, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the feel of the Rice Pudding switches remains somewhat ambiguous as specific descriptors have not been provided. Nonetheless, one can reasonably expect that the combination of smooth operation and a satisfying feedback contributes to a typing experience that rivals the EF Curry.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Everglide Rice Pudding switches offer unique qualities catering to different preferences, especially in terms of sound and feel. While the EverFree provides a quieter, snappy, and polished experience, the Rice Pudding adds a deeper auditory element to its otherwise smooth operation. When making a choice, consider how these characteristics align with your personal typing style and the environment in which you’ll be using the keyboard. Ultimately, both switches could potentially yield satisfying results but might appeal to different segments of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a medium bottom-out force that provides a snappy and polished feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry is an excellent choice. Its smooth keystroke and refined design make it a reliable option for both typing and gaming, and its affordability ensures you won't break the bank while enjoying a quality experience. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter touch that enhances rapid key presses, along with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Rice Pudding is worth considering. Its blend of smooth operation and deeper sound contributes to a typing experience that many enthusiasts find delightful, especially if you plan to utilize it with Wooting's innovative keyboards. Thus, your decision should reflect not only the tactile and auditory qualities you value but also the specific context in which you plan to use your keyboard. Whether you lean towards the responsive and budget-friendly ethos of the EverFree (EF) Curry or the performance-driven and versatile appeal of the Rice Pudding, both switches offer compelling advantages for different types of users.
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