Bsun Bumblebee Linear vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Bsun Bumblebee Linear 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 the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar can significantly impact your typing experience. The Bumblebee Linear is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, complemented by a bright sound profile that enhances the tactile experience. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a graceful and quiet typing experience, ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offers a cost-effective option that doesn’t compromise on quality; known for its snappy and polished feel, it provides reliable performance with a satisfying poppy sound that many gamers and typists appreciate. Ultimately, while both switches cater to a linear feel that users prefer for their smoothness, their sound profiles and overall characteristics may sway you toward one over the other. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The Bumblebee Linear features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a deeper sound profile that is relatively muted. This unique characteristic stems from the softer qualities inherent to POM, which dampens the acoustics of the switch. On the other hand, the Everfree Cedar boasts a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisper and more resonant. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to this clear sound quality, making it particularly effective for setups that utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for enhanced visual effects. Thus, while both switches offer unique advantages, the Bumblebee's POM housing is more oriented towards a subtler auditory experience, whereas the Everfree Cedar’s polycarbonate top focuses on clarity and brightness.
Interestingly, both the Bumblebee Linear and the Everfree (EF) Cedar share the same material for their bottom housing: nylon. This commonality plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of each switch. Nylon, as a classic sound-dampening material, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Since nylon is softer than POM or polycarbonate, it absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Therefore, even though the top housings of these switches differ significantly—leading to contrasting sound profiles—the bottom housing creates a cohesive auditory foundation. In both switches, the nylon bottom housing ensures that users experience a muted depth in sound that helps soften any sharpness from the top housing materials.
As key presses engage the switches, the interaction between the top and bottom housings significantly influences the user experience. The Bumblebee Linear's POM top housing contributes to a more muted sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing deepens the overall auditory experience. Conversely, the Everfree Cedar's polycarbonate top housing elevates the clarity and sharpness of the sound released, supported by the sound-absorbing qualities of the nylon bottom. Ultimately, this interplay encapsulates the contrast and potential harmony between materials; while the top housing of each switch delivers varying sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom ensures that both switches still resonate with a satisfying depth, achieving a balance that caters to diverse user preferences while leveraging the strengths of each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch with a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams to the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and an unknown bottom out force, distinct preferences arise for different types of users. The Bumblebee Linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without inducing fatigue. On the other hand, the Everfree Cedar's higher actuation force provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Without specific information on the bottom out force of the Everfree Cedar, it's difficult to make a direct comparison in that regard. Ultimately, while the Bumblebee is the lighter option, offering a quicker response with less effort, the Everfree Cedar caters to those seeking a more forceful interaction with their keyboard.
Travel distance
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users pressing down on either switch will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom, contributing to a similar feel when typing or gaming. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they should deliver comparable performance in terms of key actuation and feedback, making them equal choices for those who prefer linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Bsun Bumblebee Linear comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Bumblebee Linear switch is noted for its bright sound profile, which contributes to an engaging auditory experience while typing. This quality often makes it appealing to users who enjoy an expressive, noticeable feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is characterized by a poppy sound that adds a layer of satisfaction when activated. The sound produced by switches can be affected by various factors, including the type of keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps used, so while these profiles suggest different acoustics, the final result can vary widely depending on the overall setup.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Bumblebee Linear offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless key presses that enhance typing speed and comfort. On the other hand, the Everfree (EF) Cedar features a combination of snappy responsiveness alongside a polished finish. The immediate feedback from the snappiness provides a lively sensation during use, while the polished nature ensures that key travel feels refined and smooth. Together, these attributes create a dynamic feel that contrasts with the pure smoothness of the Bumblebee.
In conclusion, while both switches offer unique sound and feel attributes, the Bumblebee Linear excels in providing a bright and smooth typing experience, whereas the Everfree (EF) Cedar brings a poppy sound and a lively, polished feel. If you appreciate a bright auditory profile and a super smooth typing experience, the Bumblebee may be your best choice. However, if you are looking for a more interactive and snappy typing sensation with a satisfying sound, the Everfree (EF) Cedar could be the way to go. Ultimately, your choice will reflect your personal preferences in sound and feel, as both switches can deliver different yet rewarding experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Bsun Bumblebee Linear and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile. If you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Bumblebee Linear is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a smooth and bright sound that enhances your typing experience. This switch is particularly suitable for those who type frequently and enjoy a fluid keystroke without the need for significant force. On the other hand, if you find yourself valuing a snappy, responsive feel alongside a polished smoothness, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is the way to go. Although its bottom-out force is classified as unknown, you can still expect a cost-effective and reliable performance from these switches. They offer a satisfying, poppy sound profile, making them a solid option for users who want an engaging auditory feedback while typing. In the end, both switches provide unique benefits, so consider your typing style and environment when making your final decision.
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