Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar are two compelling linear options that cater to distinct typing preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is lauded for its almost ethereal typing experience, characterized by a frictionless glide that feels akin to ice skating on a freshly resurfaced rink. This switch delivers a subdued, creamy, and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize smoothness and comfort in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar stands out as a cost-effective alternative, known for its consistent performance and a satisfyingly poppy sound profile, which appeals to users looking for reliability without breaking the bank. While both switches offer their unique benefits, such as the Aqua King's luxurious feel and the Everfree's dependable performance, understanding their individual characteristics can help you make an informed decision. 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
46g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, one notable similarity is found in their top housings, as both are made from polycarbonate. This shared material choice in the top housing is significant because polycarbonate contributes to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, which enhances the auditory experience when typing. Both switches will offer a clear and resonant sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, making them ideal for those who appreciate the clarity of sound produced in tactile and clicky switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing bodes well for users who prefer a vibrant RGB lighting experience, as both switches can effectively showcase backlighting.
However, the differences in the bottom housing materials mark a stark contrast between the two switches. The Aqua King (V3) also employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, similar to its top section. This consistent use of polycarbonate across both housings contributes to an overall similar sound profile, ensuring that the top and bottom sounds align harmoniously. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar features a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. This distinction means that while the Aqua King maintains a more consistent sound throughout, the Everfree offers a varied acoustic journey with a pronounced difference between the top and bottom sounds.
Ultimately, these differences in material choice yield different tactile sensations and sound experiences in typing. The Aqua King (V3), with its dual polycarbonate construction, provides a cohesive and bright typing auditory experience, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar's nylon bottom introduces a softer, more rounded response. The performance discrepancies between the two switches are indicative of how bottom-out sounds and typing feedback can be influenced by housing materials. Therefore, users seeking a bright and consistent sound may gravitate toward the Aqua King (V3), while those who prefer a deeper sound signature might find the Everfree (EF) Cedar more appealing despite the divergence in material composition.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches present different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua King (V3) features a lighter actuation force of 46 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions, while its bottom out force is measured at 62 grams, indicating a medium resistance when pressing the key all the way down. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more robust typing feel. Notably, the bottom out force of the Everfree (EF) Cedar is not specified, leaving a gap in the comparison. As a result, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the Aqua King (V3) is better suited for those seeking a lighter touch, whereas the Everfree (EF) Cedar might attract users looking for a firmer key response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, the Aqua King (V3) features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aqua King (V3) offers a more traditional feel with its greater depth, which some users might prefer for its heftiness and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Everfree (EF) Cedar, with its reduced travel distance, caters to gamers and those who appreciate quicker response times for faster typing or gaming actions. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference: if you favor a deeper keypress and a more deliberate feel, the Aqua King (V3) is the better option; however, if you lean towards a snappier experience, the Everfree (EF) Cedar would be the superior choice with its shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) switches produce a subdued sound profile, characterized by a dampened response that effectively minimizes noise without being completely silent. This quality allows for a more discreet typing experience, which can be appreciated in quieter environments. In contrast, the sound profile of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is not specified; however, it is generally noted that Gateron's switches tend to balance pleasant sound with performance. Therefore, while the Aqua King (V3) will provide a gentle auditory experience, the Everfree (EF) Cedar may produce a sound that varies based on factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used, but it is likely to offer a reliable acoustic presence.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) switches stand out with their remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience. Described as frictionless, silky, and polished, these switches allow users to glide their fingers effortlessly across the keys, creating a luxurious typing sensation akin to ice skating on a freshly surfaced rink. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Everfree (EF) Cedar switches, leaving their tactile experience somewhat unknown. However, given Gateron's reputation for quality, it can be inferred that they are designed to provide a satisfying experience, albeit it may not match the exceptionally smooth qualities of the Aqua King (V3).
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) excels in delivering a refined sound experience marked by its subdued auditory profile, alongside an unmatched fluidity in feel characterized by creamy and frictionless motions. Although the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, its design promises reliable performance and satisfaction typical of Gateron’s offerings. For those who prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Aqua King (V3) stands out, whereas the Everfree might serve as a competent alternative, though potentially offering a different tactile sensation. When considering these switches, particularly choose the Aqua King for a top-tier typing experience, and expect the Everfree to deliver solid performance, albeit with less specificity in its qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you value a luxurious and exceptionally smooth typing experience likened to gliding across ice, the Aqua King (V3) is your switch of choice. Its medium actuation force of 62 grams provides a balanced resistance, making it suitable for extensive typing sessions. Furthermore, its subdued sound signature ensures a quieter environment, which is ideal for professional settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you're looking for a cost-effective option that still delivers reliable performance with a satisfying feel, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is a great alternative. Although its exact bottom out force is unknown, it aims for a smooth and responsive typing experience, making it well-suited for gamers or users who enjoy a more tactile feedback without breaking the bank. Ultimately, both switches deliver a delightful, linear feel; your choice will depend on whether you prioritize premium touch or value-driven performance.
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