Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Dolphin is favored for its silent operation, making it a great choice for quiet workspaces, while the EverFree Curry offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. The Dolphin's medium-heavy actuation force provides a satisfying press with precision, ideal for users who prefer a switch with some resistance. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry's smooth linear mechanism ensures a seamless keystroke 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, their unique designs and configurations may result in slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing while the EverFree (EF) Curry also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material, known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. Despite both switches having the same nylon bottom housing material, variations in design and construction may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel during typing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry results in unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While the materials used in the housings are the same for both switches, the way in which they are configured and the overall design of the switches may contribute to variations in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound profile, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it is evident that they both fall under the medium weight category. The actuation force of the Dolphin is listed as None grams, while the Curry has an actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, slightly heavier than the Curry's bottom out force of 60 grams. The Dolphin switch provides a lighter actuation force than the Curry switch, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. In contrast, the Curry switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a firmer typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Both switches offer a good balance of actuation and bottom out force, allowing users to get similar results in terms of typing performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dolphin's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the EverFree Curry's longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, offering a balance between responsiveness and key depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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.
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 Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it a great choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch's sound profile is not specified. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish contributes to a sleek typing feel that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is characterized as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. Additionally, it is also described as polished, mirroring the smooth and refined finish of the Dolphin switch, and mild, suggesting a gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users.
Overall, both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch have their unique strengths in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, with a smooth keystroke and snappy response. Depending on your preferences in sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a silent and medium-heavy linear switch with a substantial feel, the Durock Dolphin would be a great choice, especially for office settings or situations where noise levels matter. On the other hand, if you are seeking a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth keystroke and reliability, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry would be a solid option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel to ensure you have the best typing experience with either the Durock Dolphin or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches.
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