Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, one can see distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The EverFree Curry switch offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a smooth and reliable keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Shadow Double Spring switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks, catering to users who prefer a more tactile 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the main difference lies in the bottom housing material. The EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound profile akin to its top housing material.
While the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, offering similar characteristics such as a sharp and crisp sound profile, the difference comes in their bottom housings. The EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and resonant sound profile found in its top housing, resulting in an overall more consistent typing experience throughout the keystroke. Each housing material plays a vital role in shaping the sound and feel of the switch, highlighting the importance of both components working harmoniously.
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it's evident that the housing materials significantly impact the overall sound and typing experience of the switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, their bottom housings differ in material, leading to distinct qualities in sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the EverFree (EF) Curry adds depth and fullness to the typing experience, contrasting with the sharp and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials contributes to the unique characteristics of each switch, catering to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 63 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out force. When considering weight, some users may prefer the EverFree (EF) Curry for its lighter actuation force, which can allow for longer typing or gaming sessions. Others may gravitate towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two, their travel distance is the same, which means users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that regardless of which switch is used, users will get familiar and comfortable results when typing on keyboards equipped with either the EverFree Curry or the Shadow Double Spring.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 linear switch is often described as having a clean and consistent sound profile, providing a pleasant typing experience without any distracting noise. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the EverFree Curry switch offers a quieter typing experience compared to the Shadow switch, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is recognized for its snappy and polished characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The mild feel of these switches provides a gentle and approachable typing sensation, suitable for a wide range of users. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its sharp and accented tactile feedback, offering a distinct and pronounced tactile bump with each keypress. With a bouncy and stepped feel, these switches provide a tactile typing experience that is lively and responsive, making them ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The EverFree Curry switch provides a smooth and quiet typing experience, perfect for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective linear switch option. In contrast, the Shadow switch delivers a more tactile and engaging typing feel with its sharp and responsive tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless of the selection, both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences and requirements. You may want to choose the EverFree Curry if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth keystroke from a reputable brand like Gateron. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow Double Spring may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on the sound and feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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