Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Smoothie, both linear switches with their own unique features. The EF Curry is a budget-friendly choice from the EverFree sub-brand of Gateron, known for its smooth keystrokes and reliable performance, making it ideal for those looking for a cost-effective solution without compromising quality. On the other hand, the Smoothie introduces an all-POM construction that delivers a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight feel, all at an affordable price point. While both switches offer distinct characteristics such as snappy and polished for the EF Curry and buttery and thocky for the Smoothie, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific 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
40g
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
3.60 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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Gateron Smoothie, one noticeable difference lies in the top housing material used. The EverFree (EF) Curry features a polycarbonate top housing which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie boasts a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the EverFree Curry providing a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Smoothie's more subdued tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings of the two switches, the EverFree (EF) Curry utilizes a nylon bottom housing while the Smoothie employs a POM bottom housing. Nylon, known for its softer properties, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, POM brings a unique and pleasing sound to the Smoothie, with a deeper tone that is relatively more muted. This difference in bottom housing materials can affect the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel, providing users with varying levels of feedback and acoustics.
Overall, while the EverFree (EF) Curry and the Smoothie exhibit differences in their housing materials, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing materials, with the EverFree Curry emphasizing a crisper and resonant sound through its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Smoothie provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housing. Whether one prefers a sharper sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie's 40 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, the Gateron Smoothie doesn't have a specified bottom out force, so it's unclear how much force is required to fully press the key down. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gateron Smoothie may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation force and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The EverFree Curry switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Smoothie switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the EverFree Curry switch. Both switches offer a different feel to the user, with the EverFree Curry offering a slightly longer travel distance for a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 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 Smoothie for $2.60.
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 switch offers a unique auditory experience that may be described as impressive and distinct, but specific descriptors are not provided in the given information. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch is known for producing a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound. This results in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound that is mellow and bass-heavy, creating a more subtle and dampened sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is known for its snappy, polished, and mild typing experience. These characteristics translate to a super responsive feel, smooth and refined finish, and a gentle typing sensation that falls in a safe middle ground. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. This results in a smooth, fluid, and effortless keystroke that provides a seamless and uniform sensation when typing. The decision between the two switches in terms of feel will depend on whether you prefer a more lively and polished typing experience or a smooth and buttery touch.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Gateron Smoothie switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EF Curry presents a budget-friendly option from a trusted brand with a smooth keystroke and distinct sound, while the Smoothie shatters price barriers with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both switches provide quality options within the linear switch market. If sound and feel are key factors for you, experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and setups will likely yield favorable results.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Gateron Smoothie linear switches, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you value a snappy and polished typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a buttery and creamy typing sensation with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the Smoothie switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and value, so your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel and sound. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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