Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly impact your typing experience. The Durock Blue Lotus switches offer a delightful tactile response, striking a balance between a pronounced tactile bump and quick actuation, thanks to their slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm. Ideal for those who revel in a more engaging typing feel, the Blue Lotus switches also feature a detachable light column for stunning RGB lighting effects, adding a touch of visual flair to any setup. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches provide a smooth, linear experience that caters to users seeking uninterrupted keystrokes without any tactile feedback. Known for their performance consistency and a satisfying, poppy sound profile, these switches are a budget-friendly choice for gamers and typists alike. While both switches have their unique advantages—one emphasizing tactile feedback and dynamic aesthetics, and the other focusing on smooth reliability—there are more nuances 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, notable differences emerge primarily in the top housing. The Blue Lotus utilizes a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UPE), which contributes to a unique and premium tactile feel during use. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar employs pure polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. While both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing, the Blue Lotus’s inclusion of UPE modifies the sound characteristics somewhat, leading to a potentially softer sound when bottoming out compared to the more resonant quality of the pure polycarbonate in the Everfree Cedar.
Examining the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon, a classic choice in switch design. The incorporation of nylon in both the Blue Lotus and the EF Cedar results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This similarity means that, regardless of the differences in top housing, typists can expect a comparable auditory experience and feel from both switches when pressing them down. The nylon’s acoustic properties will influence the sound produced at the point of actuation as well as the feel experienced upon bottoming out, creating a coalescence of sound behaviors from two different top materials.
Overall, the distinct qualities brought by each housing material complement one another in these switches. While the typing experience is enhanced by the particular sound and feel each top housing imparts, the nylon bottom housing remains consistent, providing a deeper and rounder sound across both models. Therefore, even though the upper halves differ in their specific material compositions—one being a specialized blend and the other a pure form—they together create an engaging and dynamic typing experience that showcases the strengths of both the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar. The differing characteristics of the top and bottom housings thus contribute to a multifaceted sound profile, making both switches appealing choices in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch exhibit similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 55 grams, which means that users will experience similar resistance when pressing the keys to trigger a keystroke. This attribute makes both switches suitable for extended typing sessions, as they provide a balanced feel without being overly heavy. However, the Blue Lotus has a defined bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a firmer feel when pressing the key fully down, which some typists may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Everfree (EF) Cedar is unknown, leaving a gap in comparison for that aspect. If the bottom out force for the Cedar were also specified, it could further inform users about its feel during heavier presses, but as it stands, the Blue Lotus is the heavier switch overall due to its defined bottom out force. Therefore, those who appreciate a little more resistance at the bottom of their keystrokes may lean towards the Blue Lotus, while the Cedar's characteristics remain uncertain.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch differ slightly in their travel distances, with the Blue Lotus at 3.7 mm and the Everfree (EF) Cedar at 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron switch the shorter option, while the Durock is marginally longer. For gamers or users who prioritize faster response times, the Everfree Cedar may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker actuation. However, those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke with comfortable depth might find the Blue Lotus to be a better fit. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the subtle difference could impact your typing or gaming experience based on your preference for either responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switches deliver a deep, bassy tone that provides a rich auditory experience during key presses. This characteristic low-frequency sound creates a warm ambiance that many typists appreciate, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches are known for their smooth and reliable performance, accompanied by a satisfying poppy sound profile. While the exact sound characteristics of the Cedar switch are less defined, the poppy quality suggests a cleaner, crisper auditory feedback compared to the deeper tones of the Blue Lotus. Ultimately, the sound you experience from either switch can also be influenced by your keyboard's construction and the keycaps you choose.
Regarding feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches stand out with their "accented" tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is noticeable but not overwhelming. Their "snappy" nature ensures a responsive keystroke that enhances the typing experience, while the "stepped" design contributes to a more nuanced tactile sensation through its two-staged activation. This combination makes the Blue Lotus ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced tactile experience without being overly intense. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches are linear, which means they lack the tactile bump altogether, offering a smoother keystroke and a different typing sensation that can be appealing to those who prefer an uninterrupted flow during typing.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches cater to distinct preferences in terms of both sound and feel. With the Blue Lotus providing a deep, bassy sound and a layered tactile experience, it's perfect for those who appreciate pronounced feedback during typing. Conversely, the Everfree Cedar’s poppy sound and linear feel are ideal for typists looking for smoothness and reliability. Depending on your preferences, choosing one over the other will undeniably shape your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a tactile experience with a pronounced feel and clearer auditory feedback, the Blue Lotus would be your best bet. Its medium-heavy actuation force, tactile snappiness, and richer bassy sound profile make it ideal for both typists who appreciate tactile clarity and gamers looking for responsive feedback without sacrificing comfort. Conversely, if you seek a smoother typing experience with less tactile resistance—perhaps for extended typing sessions or a quieter environment—the Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch might be the way to go. While details on its specifications are limited, Gateron’s reputation for delivering reliable linear switches suggests it will provide a satisfying, consistent keystroke with diminished noise. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the balance you wish to strike between tactile feedback and typing smoothness based on your personal needs and preferences.
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