TTC Brother vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference, particularly between the tactile feedback of a clicky switch and the smoother feel of a linear switch. The TTC Brother, a clicky switch, is a favorite for those who appreciate a tactile and auditory experience in their typing. With its lightweight actuation force of just 37g and a satisfying crunchy sound signature, it offers a delightful blend of feedback and ease-of-use that resonates well with clicky switch enthusiasts. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch caters to users who prioritize smooth keystrokes and quiet performance. Known for its reliable and consistent actuation, it provides a poppy sound that is subtle but satisfying, making it a cost-effective choice for those who enjoy uninterrupted typing sessions. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on what you're looking to achieve in your keyboard experience; 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, it quickly becomes apparent that both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This shared choice in material results in similar acoustic properties, specifically a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile known for its clarity and resonance. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiff plastic, not only contributes to this crisp sound but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly for users who wish to utilize RGB lighting. The translucid nature of polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively, ensuring that any illumination is vibrant and pronounced. Thus, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when typing on either switch due to their identical top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, furthering the similarities observed in their sound profiles. Nylon, known for its softer characteristics compared to other plastics, absorbs sound waves more effectively, which results in a deeper and fuller sound upon key activation. This property is important, as it provides a distinct contrast to the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top. While the combination of nylon on the bottom and polycarbonate on the top results in a comprehensive tonal experience for the user, it also indicates that the overall sound signature will be a blend of both materials. As both switches share the same materials for the top and bottom housings, the resulting typing experience will likely exhibit characteristics from both, ensuring a uniform sound profile across typing actions.
Despite these similarities, the interaction between the two materials—the light, sharp quality of the polycarbonate top and the deep, mellow tone of the nylon bottom—creates a unique acoustic environment when the switches are in use. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced when keys are bottomed out, while the top housing's contribution is felt when releasing the key. Overall, users can expect a balanced sound profile from both the TTC Brother and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, resulting in an engaging typing experience that maintains crispness on the top end while drawing from the richer, fuller sounds offered by the nylon bottom. Hence, even with the materials being the same, there is a nuanced interplay of sound characteristics that provides a distinct yet comparable typing experience with both switch models.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, notable differences emerge. The TTC Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Gateron Everfree requires a heavier 55 grams to register a keystroke. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may favor the Brother switch, as it allows for less fatigue over time. On the other hand, the Everfree switch's higher actuation force may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so we cannot draw direct comparisons in that regard. Nevertheless, given their actuation forces, the TTC Brother is positioned as the lighter option, making it more suitable for those who prioritize comfort, whereas the Gateron Everfree caters to users desiring a stiffer feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Brother switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Cedar switch. If you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the TTC Brother offers a quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance, which might appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree Cedar, with its longer 3.6 mm travel, may provide a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a deeper keypress. Consequently, the choice between these switches will largely depend on whether you prefer the brisk feedback of a shorter travel distance or the more pronounced depth of a longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 considering the sound qualities of the TTC Brother clicky switch, it is characterized by a refreshingly crunchy sound profile that appeals to fans of clicky switches. This audio feedback can be likened to the crisp sound of stepping on autumn leaves, providing a delightful auditory experience with each keystroke. The distinct clicking noise is not only prominent but also clear, making it easy to enjoy the tactile feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is noted for its poppy sound profile, which is generally quieter and less intrusive than clicky switches. However, the specific qualities of the sound have not been thoroughly detailed, leaving some aspects of its acoustic characteristics unknown. It's essential to keep in mind that the overall sound experience can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, which might result in differences when comparing the two switches.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers an easy-to-press experience due to its lightweight actuation force of just 37g. This gentle resistance during key presses allows for quick and effortless typing, making it comfortable for extended use. Additionally, its tactile bump is described as stepped, providing a distinct sensation as you press down on the keys. This variation in tactile feedback enhances the typing experience by offering a clear but mild tactile indication. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch doesn't have a detailed description of its feel, which leaves us without specific insights into its actuation or tactile feedback. However, linear switches typically lack the tactile feedback that clicky switches provide, resulting in a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Brother excels in delivering a satisfying, audible click and an engaging tactile experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy feedback while typing. Conversely, the Everfree Cedar offers a smoother, quieter typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a more minimalist and subtle feel. While both switches provide distinctive qualities, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference, as each switch serves its unique audience within the diverse landscape of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience and the auditory satisfaction that comes with it, the Brother switch is an excellent option. Its lightweight actuation force and crunchy sound signature make it particularly appealing for those who appreciate the feedback and character of clicky switches, whether you're typing lengthy documents or enjoying some casual gaming. On the other hand, if you favor a smooth and silent keystroke, the Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch might be the better choice. Its reliable performance and subtle sound profile cater well to users who prioritize a fluid typing experience without the distractions of audible clicks, making it suitable for both work and gaming environments. In summary, choose the Brother if you crave tactile feedback and sound, while the Everfree Cedar is ideal for those seeking a sleek and unobtrusive typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
