Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Durock White Lotus both offer unique qualities worth considering. The EverFree Curry, a linear switch, is praised for its budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, providing a smooth keystroke that is reliable and cost-effective. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus, a tactile switch, stands out for its delicate tactility that is perfect for extended typing sessions, along with the added feature of removable light columns for customizable RGB lighting effects. While the EverFree Curry is ideal for those seeking a snappy and polished linear switch, the White Lotus caters to typists who prefer a light tactile option with subtle yet noticeable feedback. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Durock White Lotus, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The polycarbonate housing in the EF Curry creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a unique and premium feel. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. In terms of sound profile, the EF Curry is likely to have a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the White Lotus with its modified blend housing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the EF Curry and the White Lotus feature nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The split quality of the housing materials means that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, both switches will offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials.
Overall, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Durock White Lotus feature different bottom housings, their polycarbonate top housings provide a similar aesthetic and functional benefit. The sharper, higher-pitched sound profile of the EF Curry's polycarbonate housing contrasts with the unique and premium feel of the White Lotus's modified blend housing. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience due to the combination of their housing materials, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that the White Lotus is the lighter option with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, while the EverFree Curry is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of overall force required. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the White Lotus would be the better choice. Meanwhile, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the EverFree Curry. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches offer users the opportunity to select based on their personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance, it is evident that both switches provide a consistent typing experience with the same amount of travel distance. This means that whether you choose the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry or the Durock White Lotus, you can expect similar results in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding linear versus tactile feel, rather than travel distance.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 EverFree (EF) Curry switches are known for providing a satisfying, consistent sound profile that is smooth and not overly loud. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switches offer a low-pitched sound that is mellow and soothing, making them suitable for quiet environments or shared spaces. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Curry switches being more neutral overall and the White Lotus switches offering a deeper, bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches are commended for their snappy and polished typing experience, thanks to their responsive mechanism and smooth key travel. They offer a mild typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switches are designed to be easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes long typing sessions comfortable and effortless, reducing finger fatigue while still offering a mild and subtle typing experience that is suitable for most users.
In conclusion, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switches and Durock White Lotus tactile switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Curry switches excel in providing a budget-friendly linear option with a smooth keystroke, while the White Lotus switches stand out for their delicate tactility and light column for RGB lighting effects. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a linear or tactile switch mechanism and your preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth keystroke and reliable performance, the EverFree Curry is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a delicate tactile experience with vibrant RGB lighting effects and a light actuation force, the White Lotus switches are the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different needs, so choose based on what best suits your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
