Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Bsun Taichi present two compelling options, each catering to different preferences and budget considerations. The EverFree (EF) Curry is celebrated for its exceptional value, featuring a snappy, polished feel that delivers a reliable and smooth keystroke without breaking the bank, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a solid yet affordable option from a reputable brand. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi offers a unique auditory experience with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound complemented by a long-pole stem and extended springs, resulting in unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the EverFree Curry is suitable for those looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly linear switch, the Taichi appeals to users who prioritize tactile feedback and sound quality in their typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Bsun Taichi switches share a fundamental similarity in their housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing results in a sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, which enhances the resonance and clarity of the acoustic response. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of the polycarbonate, making them particularly suitable for users looking to enhance their RGB lighting setups. This shared material choice ensures that both switches will deliver a similar top-end sound quality and visual appeal when illuminated.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to their unique auditory character, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper top sounds. Nylon’s softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a warmer and rounder auditory experience that dampens the impact of noise generated by keystrokes. This design choice means that even though the switches may share common materials in their top and bottom housings, the overall sound and feel when pressed will differ fundamentally. The nylon material, while common to both switches, introduces a differentiation in the tactile experience, particularly noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Bsun Taichi switches utilize the same materials for their housings, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom provides them with distinct auditory characteristics. Users can expect a similar sharpness and clarity due to the polycarbonate top, but the deeper and rounder sounds produced by the nylon bottom will offer a unique feel in each switch. This synergy between housing materials ensures both switches cater to varied preferences within the mechanical keyboard community, allowing users to enjoy tailored auditory experiences that reflect their individual tastes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch to the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are notable differences. The EverFree Curry has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch that provides a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to press down for longer periods, but its bottom out force remains unknown, which complicates a direct comparison on that aspect. For users who prefer a lighter touch, the Bsun Taichi would likely be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate. However, those who enjoy a more substantial feel in their keystrokes may gravitate towards the EverFree Curry due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences for weight and typing experience, with the Taichi being lighter and the EverFree Curry being heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there is a notable difference. The EF Curry features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taichi has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you choose the Taichi, you will experience a slightly quicker response, which can be beneficial for gamers who favor shorter travel distances for faster key actuation. On the other hand, the EF Curry's 4 mm travel offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Consequently, if you prefer responsiveness and quicker feedback from your switches, the Taichi would be the better option; however, if you appreciate a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, the EF Curry would be the superior choice.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 characteristics, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches are relatively unknown. However, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is noted for its unique high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is attributed to its long-pole stem and extended springs. This sound profile could appeal to users seeking a more engaging auditory experience while typing. It’s important to note that the overall sound produced can also vary depending on the keyboard's design and the materials of the keycaps used, so individual experiences may differ.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches are celebrated for their snappy performance, which provides a responsive typing experience often enhanced by longer or dual-staged springs. They also feature a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined action during key presses, likely due to quality materials or factory lubrication. The "mild" descriptor indicates that these switches provide a gentle and accessible typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the specifics of the feel for the Taichi switches remain unknown, making it difficult to directly compare them in this regard.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and Bsun Taichi switches bring unique qualities to the linear switch category. The EverFree Curry offers an impressive balance of snappiness, smoothness, and mildness, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and polished typing experience. Meanwhile, the Taichi stands out with its distinctive high-pitched sound, which may appeal to users looking for an engaging auditory feedback. While the sound qualities of the EverFree remain unclear, the tactile performance of both switches will cater to different preferences, potentially leading to similar user satisfaction in different areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences in a keyboard. If you're looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option that delivers a snappy, polished, and mild typing experience, the EverFree (EF) Curry is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a balanced feel, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the enchanting sound and enhanced smoothness of high-pitched bottom-out sounds, the Taichi switch may be the better fit for you, especially if you value the stability gained from its long-pole design and extended springs. While the precise bottom-out force for the Taichi is unavailable, its unique features aim to provide a distinct tactile experience that appeals to those who prioritize sound and fluidity. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a dependable, everyday switch or seek a more expressive and specialized typing sensation.
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