TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offer distinct yet appealing characteristics for different typing preferences. The Bluish White switch is designed for those who crave tactile feedback, delivering a satisfyingly poppy typing experience accompanied by a snappy sound profile. It's often favored by typists who appreciate a tactile response that provides clear engagement with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree Cedar switch is a linear switch known for its smoothness and reliability, offering an uninterrupted keystroke experience that's ideal for those who value speed and consistency in their typing. Its cost-effective appeal makes it a practical choice for users who want a high-quality performance without breaking the bank. Both switches cater to different user needs—tactile feedback versus smoothness—and understanding these nuances is key to making 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a significant similarity in their sound profiles. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced by the switch, allowing for a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience. This trait is particularly beneficial for users who appreciate responsive feedback while typing, as the material's stiffness contributes to a more resonant and clear sound signature. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for those who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard designs, as the light can easily pass through and illuminate the switch more effectively.
In contrast, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper tone of the polycarbonate top. The relative softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory sensation during key presses. This combination means that while both switches may deliver a similar initial auditory response upon key release due to their polycarbonate top housings, the overall experience of typing will be markedly different. The nylon bottom housing will significantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a fuller response that contrasts with the crisper, more resonant sound generated by the polycarbonate tops.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different housing materials in these two switches highlights the nuanced engineering involved in keyboard design. Both the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar showcase how the top and bottom housings contribute distinct qualities to the typing experience. While the top housing's polycarbonate contributes a sharp sound upon key release, the nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper quality upon key press, resulting in a well-rounded performance. Users who appreciate the clarity of sound combined with a rich, full typing experience will find that both switches offer appealing yet distinct auditory characteristics that complement various typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, notable differences in actuation force highlight their distinct typing experiences. The Bluish White features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where less resistance can reduce fatigue. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel preferred by users who enjoy a firmer tactile experience. However, the bottom out force for the Cedar switch remains unknown, which adds a layer of uncertainty when fully evaluating its depth of keystroke engagement. In summary, the Bluish White is the lighter option, appealing to those favoring easier keystrokes, while the heavier actuation of the Everfree suggests a more deliberate, stable typing experience for those who prefer a stronger feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, the Bluish White features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Everfree Cedar's travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within a similar range and are suitable for different preferences, the Bluish White provides a bit more responsiveness due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quick response times. In contrast, the Everfree Cedar's longer travel distance offers a more pronounced depth, which may appeal to those who prefer a more deliberate keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual user preferences for responsiveness versus keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 TTC Bluish White switch delivers a low-pitched auditory experience that is both satisfying and snappy. This sound profile contributes to a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, giving a pleasant acoustic feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch also features a satisfying and poppy sound profile; however, specific details on its pitch and characteristics are not provided. It's essential to note that the overall sound produced by either switch can depend significantly on factors such as the chosen keyboard plate and keycap material, so users can have varying acoustic experiences.
Regarding the tactile feel, the Bluish White switch offers a buttery touch that transforms each keystroke into a smooth and fluid experience. Its mild and subtle nature makes it approachable for most typists, ensuring that the feedback provided is nuanced without being overwhelming. Additionally, the stepped design of the switch introduces a two-stage feel, allowing typists to sense pre-travel and post-travel resistance. This enhances the tactile feedback, making it a strategic choice for a blend of comfort and responsiveness. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch are absent, leaving some uncertainty about its tactile characteristics.
In summary, both the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Bluish White is appreciated for its low-pitched poppy sound and a refined tactile experience, making it versatile for various typing needs. The Everfree Cedar, while sharing a satisfying sound profile, lacks detailed information on tactile feedback. These switches cater to different preferences: for those who value the tactile sensation in their typing experience, the Bluish White stands out, while the Everfree Cedar may appeal to those seeking basic linear performance in a cost-effective package. Ultimately, individual preference and typing style will dictate the best choice between these two options.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile response with a satisfying poppy sound and a gentle feel, the Bluish White may be the ideal choice for you. Its light touch, as evidenced by its 50-gram bottom-out force, makes it particularly well-suited for people who appreciate a more dynamic and engaging typing experience, whether you're gaming or working for long hours. Moreover, its low-pitched sound profile allows for a less intrusive auditory experience, making it appropriate for shared environments. On the other hand, if you prefer the smooth, uninterrupted action that comes with linear switches, the Everfree Cedar could be your top pick. Although specific force data isn't available, these switches are crafted to provide a reliable, cost-effective linear action that prioritizes a seamless typing experience. Ideal for users who favor rapid key presses and minimal resistance, the Everfree Cedar focuses on delivering consistent performance without the tactile bump. Overall, weigh your preferences for tactile feedback versus smoothness to find the switch that best meets your typing needs.
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