Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and actuation force play a significant role. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and crisp, high-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a responsive and lively typing experience. Its bright auditory feedback adds an engaging dimension to the tactile interaction, ideal for users who appreciate a more energetic workspace. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offers a smooth and reliable performance at a cost-effective price point, featuring a satisfying poppy sound profile that balances auditory pleasure with practicality. While both switches are categorized as linear, they differ in their auditory and tactile characteristics, appealing to diverse user preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to notably similar auditory characteristics. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. This resemblance implies that both switches will exhibit a clear and resonant sound when pressed, fulfilling the desires of enthusiasts who prioritize auditory experience in their keyboard switches. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting diffusion, enhancing the visual appeal of both switches in illuminated setups.
Contrastingly, the bottom housings of the Chiikawa - 28g and the Everfree (EF) Cedar both employ nylon, a classic material known for its distinct sound dampening properties. The use of nylon results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its capacity to absorb sound and reduce resonance. This characteristic leads to a softer and rounder auditory experience when the key bottoms out, differing from the brightness contributed by the polycarbonate tops. By combining these two materials, both switches effectively leverage the sound qualities of each; the Chiikawa maintains a lively and crisp sound with its polycarbonate top while achieving a more subdued and rich sound from its nylon bottom.
Ultimately, although the materials used in the top and bottom housings are different, the overall sound profile of both switches will be shaped by these contrasting properties. The Chiikawa's polycarbonate top allows for clarity with each keystroke, while the nylon bottom enriches the overall feel and sound when keys are pressed down. Conversely, the Everfree switches will produce a comparable blend of sound, combining the crispness of polycarbonate with the fullness of nylon. Users can expect similarly satisfying auditory experiences from both models, with each contributing unique qualities to their overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Chiikawa - 28g is a relatively lighter switch with an actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which appeals to users seeking a more substantial keystroke feel. While the bottom out force for the EF Cedar is unknown, the heavier actuation force suggests it may also have a more forceful bottoming out experience. Consequently, those looking for lighter switches will gravitate towards the Chiikawa - 28g, while those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback should consider the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar. This stark difference in weights indicates varied user preferences for typing intensity and comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, you will experience an identical movement from the top to the bottom, resulting in a consistent feel regardless of which switch you are using. Therefore, you can expect similar tactile and acoustic responses when utilizing either switch in your keyboard setup.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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
The sound profiles of the Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is characterized by its bright sound, producing a crisp and high-pitched tone when typing. This lively sound makes it enjoyable for users who appreciate feedback through auditory cues. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar delivers a poppy sound profile that combines pleasant acoustics with a sense of reliability. While both switches yield unique sounds, individual results might vary based on factors such as keyboard layout and keycap material, so users can expect a gratifying auditory experience from either option.
When it comes to the feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is known for its very light actuation force, which allows for an incredibly responsive typing experience. This lightweight action can be appealing for those who prefer a swift and effortless keystroke. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, on the other hand, is also designed with smoothness in mind, providing reliable performance that emphasizes consistent keystrokes. While both switches prioritize a smooth typing feel, the Chiikawa - 28g leans towards a lighter touch compared to the slightly firmer feel of the Everfree (EF) Cedar, catering to differing typing styles and preferences.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that appeal to different users. The Chiikawa's bright, high-pitched sound and ultra-light keystroke will attract those favoring responsiveness and lightness, while the Everfree’s satisfying poppy sound and smooth action will appeal to individuals looking for reliable performance. Despite their differences, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a bright, crisp sound, the Chiikawa - 28g may be the ideal option. Its low actuation force of 28g makes it highly responsive, making it great for fast-paced typing or gaming, where quick reactions are crucial. However, if you prefer a more robust and smooth typing experience, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch could be your go-to. Known for its reliable performance and satisfying, poppy sound, it caters well to users looking for a balance between quiet operation and tactile feedback. In essence, if you're seeking speed and a high-pitched auditory response, lean towards the Chiikawa - 28g. Conversely, if you're after dependability and a more pronounced sound profile paired with a pleasing feel, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar should be your choice. Choosing the right switch will ultimately enhance your overall typing experience, so consider what aspects matter most to you.
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