Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch are two popular options to compare and contrast. The EverFree Curry stands out as a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke experience, making it ideal for those looking for a reliable and cost-effective solution. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile. While the EverFree Curry is characterized by its snappy and polished feel, the Silent Brown is known for its buttery and muted qualities. Both switches have their unique features that appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Silent Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches have similar polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in their nylon bottom housings. The EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differences in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switches. However, the polycarbonate top housing in both switches still plays a significant role in creating a sharp and clear sound profile, especially noticeable when the keys are released.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Silent Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The EverFree (EF) Curry's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing results in a sharp, clear sound when pressing keys and a deep, full sound when releasing them. In contrast, the Silent Brown's use of polycarbonate and nylon in both top and bottom housings creates a sharper sound when pressing keys and a rounder sound when releasing them. Ultimately, the housing materials in these switches contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provide interesting points for comparison. The EverFree (EF) Curry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, making it slightly lighter. However, the bottom out force is heavier for the EverFree (EF) Curry at 60 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 63.5 grams, making the Silent Brown slightly lighter in this aspect. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Brown may be the preferred choice due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the EverFree (EF) Curry for its heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy weight that caters to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The EverFree Curry offers a more traditional travel distance compared to the Silent Brown, making it a better choice for those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the EverFree Curry providing a more substantial press and the Silent Brown offering a quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is known for a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, which may be slightly louder compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch with its muted sound profile. The Silent Brown switch offers a softer and quieter typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking to minimize typing noise. When considering sound, it's important to note that the overall acoustics can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is described as snappy, polished, and mild, offering a smooth and refined keystroke experience with a gentle typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch is characterized by its buttery, mild, and polished qualities, providing a fluid and effortless typing sensation with a comfortable level of tactility. Both switches fall within the same mild and polished range, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of overall feel and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Curry switch provides a more traditional sound and a snappy feel, the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile and a buttery keystroke experience. However, both switches share similarities in their mild and polished characteristics, ensuring a comfortable and smooth typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing noise levels and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and enjoy a smooth linear keystroke, the EverFree Curry switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, a satisfying tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown switches would suit your needs better. Consider the bottom out forces, sound profiles, and feel descriptions to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages, so the decision rests on what characteristics you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
