Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the SP-Star Yanyu, both linear switches. The EverFree Curry switches are praised for their excellent value in the linear switch market, offering a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. With a smooth keystroke and a reputation for reliability, these switches are ideal for those seeking a cost-effective solution from a trusted name like Gateron. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches stand out for providing a delicate typing experience, making them perfect for extended typing sessions. Their unique material blend creates a crisp sound profile that some users prefer. While the EverFree Curry is described as 'Snappy', 'Polished', and 'Mild', the Yanyu is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to consider. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the SP-Star Yanyu both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The EverFree Curry features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. This stiffer plastic material resonates clearly, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound profile, striking a balance between sharpness and clarity. Despite their differences, both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
Moving onto the bottom housing materials, the EverFree Curry utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound upon typing. On the other hand, the Yanyu's unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing offers a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile. This blend combines the best of both worlds, creating a sound that is not too sharp but still maintains brightness. Both housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
While the EverFree Curry and the SP-Star Yanyu may differ in their housing materials, they both aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows each material to influence different aspects of the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences, making them suitable choices for different typing styles and preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that they offer different weight options. The EverFree Curry has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Yanyu boasts a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, but the actuation force is unspecified. When considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Yanyu for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the EverFree Curry with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. Users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation force from both switches, leading to a comparable typing experience regardless of which one is chosen. Overall, the travel distance of these switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall feel and performance of a keyboard, and in this case, both the Gateron EverFree Curry and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer the same level of 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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile choice suitable for various settings and user preferences. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a thocky sound profile, which produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap setup used.
When it comes to feel, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch is known for its snappy and polished qualities, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience. The Yanyu switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and feathery feel, with light actuation force and reduced strain on the fingers, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches feature a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and reduced friction key travel experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing needs. While the EverFree Curry switch provides a neutral sound and snappy, polished feel, the Yanyu switch offers a thocky sound and mild, feathery feel. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfactory results, ensuring a pleasant and efficient typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a budget-friendly option with a medium bottom out force and a smooth keystroke, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force for a delicate typing experience, a crisp sound profile, and a variety of feel options including a feathery lightness, the SP-Star Yanyu switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing habits to ensure the best match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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