Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, Gateron offers two compelling options in their linear switch lineup: the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Sea Salt Smoothie. The EverFree Curry stands out as an excellent value, striking a balance between affordability and quality with its polished and snappy keystroke. Ideal for budget-conscious users who don't want to compromise on performance, this switch is perfect for anyone seeking a reliable typing experience from a trusted brand. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie takes a different approach, offering a medium-weight all-POM construction that produces a distinct thocky sound profile without breaking the bank. Designed for those who appreciate a smooth and satisfying keystroke, the Sea Salt Smoothie excels in providing an enjoyable typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of linear switching regardless of their budget. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie showcase contrasting materials in their top housings, which significantly influence the auditory and tactile experience of each switch. The EverFree Curry employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This characteristic results in a sharper and clearer sound profile, making it particularly appealing for users interested in RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate allows for light to shine through vividly. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie features a top housing made of POM, which produces a deeper, more muted sound. This difference in acoustics highlights how the top housing material can profoundly impact the auditory experience, with the EverFree delivering a crisper response compared to the Sea Salt Smoothie's more rounded tones.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Sea Salt Smoothie introduce their unique sound profiles while utilizing different materials. The EverFree's nylon bottom housing is a traditional choice that creates a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound and contributes to a more rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing similarly provides a muted and pleasant sound profile. Although both switches employ different materials for their bottom housings, the overall result is synergistic, as both ultimately yield a satisfying deeper tone, albeit with different nuances.
In essence, the combination of materials used in both switches influences not only their aesthetic qualities but also the sound profiles they produce during use. The EverFree (EF) Curry's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom combine to generate a bright and resonant sound, while the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM materials, both top and bottom, lean towards a softer and more understated auditory response. It is noteworthy that regardless of the differences in top housing materials, both switches can yield pleasant sound experiences, thanks to the carefully chosen materials for their respective bottom housings. Thus, users can expect a satisfying typing feel whether they choose the crisper sound of the EverFree Curry or the rounded tones of the Sea Salt Smoothie.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The EverFree Curry has a measured actuation force of 50 grams, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams. This difference suggests that users who favor a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons might prefer the Sea Salt Smoothie for its easier keystroke activation. However, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown, leaving ambiguity in its overall feel when fully pressed down. In contrast, the EverFree Curry has a defined bottom out force of 60 grams, contributing to a medium strength experience which some may find offers a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the EverFree Curry is the heavier switch, providing a firmer response, while the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a lighter touch for those seeking less resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences. The EverFree (EF) Curry features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This slight difference may seem minimal, but it reflects distinct user experiences: the EverFree offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper pressing sensation, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie caters to the preference for quicker response times with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, if you're seeking a deeper and more deliberate keypress, the EverFree would be the ideal choice, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie would be better suited for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing or gaming 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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 EverFree (EF) Curry switch's audio profile remains unspecified, which leaves its acoustic characteristics open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is celebrated for its "thocky" sound, offering a pleasing auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This thocky quality is often associated with a richer, fuller sound that can enhance the typing experience, providing an engaging aural environment. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound will still vary based on your keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps you choose.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches offer a compelling blend of characteristics. They are snappy, meaning they provide quick responsiveness that can make typing feel lively and engaging. The polished finish results in a smooth typing experience with reduced friction, while the mild nature of the switch ensures that it won't overwhelm the user with pronounced features. This blend makes them approachable for a wide range of users, providing a reliable and comfortable experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Sea Salt Smoothie is not defined in the provided details, making a direct comparison difficult. However, if it too embodies smoothness, it might provide a similarly pleasant touch sensation.
In summary, while the sound characteristics of the EverFree (EF) Curry remain uncertain, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a distinct thocky sound that many enthusiasts seek. The EverFree Curry shines in its feel, boasting a snappy, polished, and mild profile that caters to diverse typing preferences. The Sea Salt Smoothie's tactile attributes are not described, leaving an unknown element in its comparison. Overall, both switches cater to users looking for linear options, but the choice may ultimately depend on personal preference regarding sound and the nuances of their typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and typing habits. If you're looking for a dependable switch that offers a balanced actuation force of 60 grams, ensuring a snappy and responsive feel while remaining polished and mild, then the EverFree (EF) Curry would serve you well. It represents an excellent value for those who prioritize quality while remaining budget-conscious, proving to be ideal for both gaming and typing experiences. Conversely, if you seek an option that emphasizes a thocky sound profile combined with a remarkably smooth keystroke, and you're willing to explore a more unique switch profile that breaks the price barrier, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie may be the better choice. With its smooth, medium-weight feel, it caters to those who value a tactile experience that feels both satisfying and enjoyable. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style, sound preferences, and budget considerations, allowing you to find the perfect switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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