Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboards, two standout switches, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, offer unique features catering to different preferences. The EverFree Curry switch by Gateron provides a smooth and budget-friendly linear option known for its reliability and quality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective solution without compromising on performance. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch by Wuque Studio offers a distinct tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a pleasing "thocky" sound, ideal for users looking for a more engaging and satisfying 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we see that both switches have nylon bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, typing on both switches will result in a duller and rounder sound, creating a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a quieter switch.
However, where these switches differ is in their top housing materials. The EverFree (EF) Curry features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in top housing materials will impact the sound produced when pressing down on a key or when letting go, providing a unique typing experience for each switch.
Overall, while both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile share a nylon bottom housing for a similar sound profile, their top housing materials provide distinct qualities. The EverFree Curry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a high-pitched typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a more muffled typing sound. Both switches offer a variety of sound profiles to suit different preferences, making them both unique in their own right.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the EF Curry has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the EF Curry requires 60 grams while the WS Heavy Tactile demands a heavier 70 grams. This difference in weight distribution means that the EF Curry provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces, making them ideal choices for users who prefer a tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the EverFree (EF) Curry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm travel distance. The 4.0mm travel distance of the EF Curry is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more deliberate typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile offers a shallower key press, which is favored by gamers for quicker response times. Both switches have their own benefits based on individual preferences, with the EF Curry offering a longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial key press, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a shorter travel distance for users seeking a faster and more responsive typing experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is known for its quiet sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers a unique and engaging auditory experience with its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant characteristics that provide a satisfying typing sound. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is praised for its snappy, polished, and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and responsive feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides an invigorating and bouncy typing sensation with its accentuated tactile feedback, firm actuation force, and sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch each provide distinctive qualities in sound and feel. While the EverFree Curry switch offers a reliable and cost-effective linear option with a smooth keystroke, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a profound tactile experience with immersive resistance and engaging typing feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both of these switches offer quality options in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a smooth and budget-friendly linear switch option with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the EverFree Curry is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you value a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, captivating sound, and immersive resistance, the WS Heavy Tactile is the way to go. The EverFree Curry provides a snappy and polished typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a bouncy and invigorating feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch and the specific characteristics that best suit your typing style and preferences.
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