HMX 1989 vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. The HMX 1989, known for its deep and thocky sound, is celebrated among enthusiasts for its satisfying auditory feedback and robust performance, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a rich acoustic profile during both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offers a smooth and reliable performance at a more accessible price point, appealing to budget-conscious users who still desire quality and a pleasant sound profile. Both switches are linear, meaning they provide a consistent feel without tactile bumps, which can be ideal for users who prefer uninterrupted keypresses. While the 1989 is lauded for its thockiness and deep resonance, the Everfree Cedar shines through its affordability and dependable performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, clarity, and a high-pitched resonance. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the crispness of keystrokes when typing. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a preferred choice for RGB lighting setups, allowing light to pass through effectively. Consequently, both switches deliver an aesthetically appealing experience along with enhanced acoustic performance, ensuring that users can enjoy visually engaging and pleasant auditory feedback when typing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, presenting a distinct variation in sound quality compared to their polycarbonate counterparts. Nylon is recognized for its softer composition, which significantly affects the overall sound profile of the switch. This material absorbs more sound than the harder polycarbonate, yielding a deeper and rounder auditory experience during typing. The choice of nylon in both bottom housings contributes to a more subdued sound when keys bottom out, resulting in a fuller typing experience that contrasts with the higher-pitched sound produced by the top housings.
When considering the interaction of these materials, it is clear that the unique characteristics of both switch designs contribute to an overall synergy. The polycarbonate top housing amplifies brighter sounds during key release, while the nylon bottom housing rounds out and deepens the impact sound upon bottoming out. This complementary relationship means that even though the 1989 and the Everfree Cedar use different materials for their respective housings, they produce cohesive results when typing. Collectively, these housing materials ensure distinct sound profiles that cater to varied user preferences, blending clarity with depth in a satisfying manner.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, a notable difference lies in their actuation forces. The HMX 1989 features a lower actuation force of 45 grams, making it a medium-light switch that is well-suited for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which can offer a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a firmer resistance. However, the bottom out force of the Everfree switch remains unknown, making it impossible to fully compare this aspect. The 1989's bottom out force is 53 grams, contributing to its overall medium-light feel. Ultimately, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the HMX 1989 is the better option, while the Gateron Everfree's heavier actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the 1989 measuring 4 mm and the Everfree Cedar at 3.6 mm. This makes the Everfree Cedar the shorter option, which can be favorable for gamers seeking quicker response times due to the reduced distance they need to press down the key. In contrast, the HMX 1989, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keypress, providing a deeper feel that some users find more satisfying. While both switches cater to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes speed and responsiveness or a more substantial tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Everfree (EF) Cedar for $2.75.
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 HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for producing a deep, thocky sound that resonates beautifully within the confines of a keyboard. This auditory quality lends a satisfying acoustic feedback that many enthusiasts find appealing, particularly in gaming and typing scenarios where you desire a pronounced auditory response. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch offers a sound profile that is described as poppy, which tends to deliver a lighter, more cheerful sound upon actuation. While the 1989's deep thockiness might evoke a more substantial and solid feel, the Everfree Cedar's sound may be more reminiscent of a gentle and lively keystroke, offering a different kind of auditory charm. However, it's worth noting that the overall sound experience can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's choice and keycap materials, creating opportunities for both switches to shine in their own right.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the HMX 1989 is characterized by its exceptional smoothness and the weighty sensation it provides during key presses, making for a fulfilling experience as your fingers glide over the keys. This heavier actuation can be particularly advantageous for those who prefer a sense of control when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is designed to offer reliable performance with a smooth actuation, ideal for prolonged use without fatigue. While the 1989 may feel more grounded and substantial, the Everfree Cedar promotes a lightweight and easy typing experience that can be immensely satisfying for users who favor lighter keystrokes. Both switches excel in delivering smooth motion, though their weights differ, ultimately shaping the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX 1989 and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The 1989's deep thockiness contrasts with the poppy sound of the Cedar, providing two distinct auditory experiences for users. When it comes to feel, the weighty and smooth actuation of the 1989 contrasts nicely with the reliable, lighter touch offered by the Everfree. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can deliver rewarding outcomes, whether you seek the robust satisfaction of the HMX 1989 or the lively touch of the Gateron Everfree Cedar.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch will largely depend on your specific preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall experience. If you enjoy a switch with a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams and prefer a deeper, thockier sound and feel that resonates with a more vintage typing experience, then the HMX 1989 would be an excellent option for you. It's particularly suitable for gamers or typists who want a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing or gaming, enriching the tactile experience. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that offers smooth and reliable performance without compromising on affordability, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar would be your go-to choice. Its poppy sound profile and consistent feel make it a great pick for both casual and serious users who appreciate a switch that balances performance with a straightforward typing experience. Ultimately, considering your budget, preferred sound characteristics, and typing experience will help you select the switch that best aligns with your needs.
Mentioned in this article
