Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When diving into the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular linear options worth considering are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and TTC Yunhai. The EverFree Curry switches, known for their snappy and polished feel, provide exceptional value for those on a budget without sacrificing quality. Their linear design allows for smooth keystrokes, making them a reliable choice for users who prioritize performance and durability. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches offer a distinct typing experience characterized by a feathery touch and a deep, rounded sound profile. With a remarkably light actuation force, they cater to typists who enjoy a gentle, effortless keystroke, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, both switches have unique advantages, appealing to different preferences and budgets. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Yunhai exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which directly influence their acoustic and tactile characteristics. The EverFree features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure that produces a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This makes it particularly effective in delivering a crisper auditory feedback on key releases, ideal for users who prefer a pronounced sound during typing. In contrast, the Yunhai utilizes a nylon top housing that characteristically offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience which may appeal to those seeking a more subdued typing feel. Thus, while the EverFree’s polycarbonate housing is suited for a clearer and brighter sound, the Yunhai's nylon top delivers warmth and richness.
Interestingly, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as each utilizes nylon material. This results in an overlap regarding typing experience, reflecting a deeper and more rounded sound characteristic that is inherent to nylon. The similarity in the bottom housings means that both the Gateron EverFree and the TTC Yunhai will produce comparable results when it comes to the lower-end sound quality during key presses. Given that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, both switches will provide users with a fuller experience when the keys are fully pressed down, regardless of the differences present in their top housing materials.
The contrasting materials of the top housings lead to a divergence in user experience that becomes apparent during key release. As the user lifts their finger from a key, the EverFree's polycarbonate top housing will generate a crisper and more pronounced sound, a feature favored by typists who enjoy auditory feedback. Conversely, the Yunhai’s nylon top will underline a sound profile that is more muted and full, aligning with users who prefer a quieter, more rounded feedback. Ultimately, while both switches share a common nylon bottom, their differing top housing materials contribute markedly to the diverse auditory experiences they offer, exemplifying how the choice of materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in defining user preference and performance.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch offer distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences among users. The EF Curry features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioning it as a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Yunhai switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This significant difference in actuation force indicates that typists who prefer a lighter feel may gravitate toward the Yunhai, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Meanwhile, the EF Curry's heavier forces may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push, offering a tactile experience that some users deem more satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches provide effective performance, the EverFree caters to users who favor a heavier key feel, while the Yunhai suits those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance results in distinct tactile experiences; the EverFree switch offers a more substantial depth during key presses, which can be more satisfying for users who favor a hearty feel. On the other hand, the Yunhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Consequently, if you prefer a notable depth in your typing experience, the EverFree (EF) Curry will be the better choice, while the TTC Yunhai is suited for those who prioritize rapid keystrokes. Overall, the EverFree switch has a longer travel distance compared to the shorter Yunhai switch.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The sound signature of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches remains unspecified, which leaves room for individual interpretation. However, it is generally understood that linear switches produce less noise compared to tactile or clicky counterparts. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches are characterized by their deep, rounded sound profile, which adds a layer of auditory satisfaction during typing. This soft and rich sound enhances the overall typing experience, making it appealing for users who appreciate acoustics in their mechanical keyboards. It's important to keep in mind that sound can be significantly influenced by other factors like the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, so both switches may produce varying sounds when installed in different boards.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switches excel with their snappy, polished, and mild characteristics. This combination results in a responsive and smooth typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. The snappiness invites quick typing, while the polished surface minimizes friction, ensuring an effortlessly smooth key travel. The mild feel makes these switches accessible and enjoyable for casual users and enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches offer a feathery feel, making them incredibly comfortable due to their light actuation force. This lightness is perfect for long typing sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue, allowing users to type for extended periods without discomfort.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Yunhai linear switches offer distinct qualities. The EverFree Curry switches shine with their snappy, polished, and mild characteristics that provide a refined, responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Yunhai switches deliver a unique deep sound profile alongside a feathery touch, enhancing comfort during prolonged use. While the specific sound qualities of the EverFree switches are not detailed, the smooth feel of both switches will likely provide satisfying results, whether you lean toward the EverFree's refined smoothness or the Yunhai's lightweight comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these two comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the TTC Yunhai linear switches largely depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a confident typing experience and prefer a moderate bottom out force, the EverFree (EF) Curry would be an excellent choice. Its snappy and polished feel makes it suitable for those who enjoy tactile feedback while maintaining a smooth keystroke, making it a reliable option for both gaming and daily use. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter touch with less finger fatigue, particularly for extended typing sessions, the Yunhai is designed for you. Its feathery feel coupled with a gentle actuation force makes it ideal for anyone who requires an effortless typing experience, whether for work, gaming, or long writing tasks. Ultimately, consider the context in which you will use the switches—if you value performance and responsiveness, the EverFree Curry shines; if comfort and ease of use are paramount, you’ll find the Yunhai to be more to your liking.
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