Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, a linear switch, to the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages. The EverFree Curry switches are a budget-friendly option from Gateron, known for their smooth keystrokes and reliability. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch offers a tactile typing experience, providing feedback to users as they type. While the linear EverFree Curry switch is 'Snappy', 'Polished', and 'Mild', the Dustproof Brown switch falls under a different category. 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
65g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Both switches tout the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing, such as creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. With similar qualities in the top housing material, users can expect to experience comparable sound profiles and visual effects when using either switch.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. The EverFree (EF) Curry features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound benefits as the EverFree (EF) Curry. This shared characteristic between the two switches in terms of the bottom housing material indicates that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
In essence, while the top housing materials of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the Outemu Dustproof Brown are the same and offer similar benefits such as enhanced sound profiles and visual appeal, the key point of differentiation lies in their bottom housing materials. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This shared characteristic ensures that users can enjoy a consistent typing experience, with slight variations in sound quality based on the different properties of the bottom housing material.
Weight
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both fall into the medium weight category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The EverFree Curry requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Dustproof Brown needs 45 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it slightly heavier. Lighter switches like the Dustproof Brown may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches like the EverFree Curry may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Despite this similarity, it is worth noting that the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have different switch types (linear vs tactile), which can affect the overall feel and performance of the switches.
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 Outemu Dustproof Brown comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is known for having a satisfyingly quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch produces a soft and subtle tactile bump accompanied by a quiet sound, providing a pleasant typing sound without being too loud or distracting. Overall, both switches offer relatively quiet typing experiences, allowing for focused and undisturbed work sessions.
Moving on to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is praised for its snappy and polished feel, offering a responsive and smooth keystroke that enhances typing speed and accuracy. With a mild actuation force, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. On the contrary, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch offers a gentle and tactile typing experience, with a slight bump that provides tactile feedback without being overly pronounced. The switch's overall smoothness adds to the typing comfort, making it a popular choice among users who enjoy tactile switches without excessive resistance or noise.
In conclusion, both the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the EverFree Curry switch excels in providing a snappy and polished typing experience with a linear mechanism, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is favored for its gentle tactile feedback and quiet operation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether the user values a linear or tactile feel, as well as the desired level of sound during typing. Regardless of the choice made, both switches are reliable options that deliver a satisfying typing experience with their own distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when making a decision between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth keystroke and reliable performance, the EverFree Curry would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Dustproof Brown might be more suitable for you. Both switches have their strengths, so it ultimately comes down to what feels best to you. Experimenting with both switches may help you determine which one aligns with your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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