Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff 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, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between tactile and linear options, each offering distinct advantages. The Bsun Cliff switch stands out for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, providing users with a tactile feedback sensation that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. This makes the Cliff a great choice for individuals who prefer a more engaging typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback during use. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch represents a commendable option for those seeking smooth and reliable performance without the clicks and bumps associated with tactile switches. With its cost-effective design rooted in Gateron’s trusted proprietary mold, the Cedar offers a satisfying and poppy sound profile that appeals to users who favor a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of feel and sound, making them suitable for various typing styles and environments. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Bsun Cliff and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches exhibit similarities, particularly in their top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the upper casing, which significantly affects their sound profiles. The shared use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when keys are pressed. This material's stiffness contributes to its resonance, ensuring that the sound quality remains clear. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly when RGB lighting is employed. In essence, the top housing for both switches creates a vibrant sound environment, which many enthusiasts seek for a dynamic typing experience.
Contrastingly, the lower housing of both switches diverges significantly, as both feature nylon as a material for their bottom housings. While nylon is universally recognized for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer plastic properties, it also acts as a sound absorber. This characteristic results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper notes produced by polycarbonate. Consequently, the nylon bottom housing influences the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, providing a more subdued auditory experience that balances the higher frequencies produced by the top housing. This combination of materials provides a unique duality in sound profiles, merging a crisp response with a soft foundation.
In summary, while the Bsun Cliff and Gateron Everfree Cedar switches share a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a bright and clear sound, they both employ nylon for their bottom housing, which rounds out the auditory experience with deeper tones. This blend of materials leads to a cohesive interaction where the top housing enhances the release sound, while the bottom housing impacts the key press, creating a full-spectrum typing experience. Therefore, despite differences in their bottom housings, the similarities in their top housing will produce comparable results in terms of sound clarity, especially when it comes to RGB lighting compatibility and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force. The Cliff switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those seeking ease of use, especially during extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The bottom out force for the Cedar is not available, so no comparison can be made for bottoming out. Overall, the Cliff switch is lighter and suitable for prolonged use, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar caters to those who favor a firmer push, making it ideal for users who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This equal travel distance means that users can expect a similar keystroke feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, the experience of actuation and feedback will be consistent, allowing for comparative performance in typing and gaming scenarios. Thus, whether opting for the Cliff or the Everfree Cedar, users can anticipate an equivalent keystroke depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch is noted for its crisp sound signature, which often provides a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch boasts a poppy sound profile that enhances the experience with a more muted resonance typically associated with linear switches. The difference in sound between these two switches is primarily due to their mechanical design; while the Cliff features a tactile bump that produces a more pronounced noise when actuated, the Everfree's linear action aims for a smoother, quieter experience. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound produced can be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Bsun Cliff brings a medium level of tactility that many users find pleasing. This moderate tactile feedback allows typists to recognize actuation with a gentle bump, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. Conversely, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar provides a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke that is highly regarded for its reliable performance, ideal for those who prefer a seamless feel without any tactile feedback. While the Cliff emphasizes sensation with its tactile bump, the Everfree allows for a gliding motion that can be more comfortable for rapid key presses. Essentially, if you enjoy the sensation of feedback, the Cliff may be more appealing, whereas the Everfree caters to those who prioritize fluidity in their typing.
In summary, while the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a crisp sound and a medium tactile feel, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch presents a poppy sound and an exceptionally smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences regarding auditory feedback and the tactile experience during use. If you like a bit of tactile sensation, go for the Cliff; if seamless, quiet typing is your jam, the Everfree Cedar might be your best bet. Both switches represent distinct experiences that can cater to different typing styles, fostering a personalized interaction with your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you enjoy a tactile feedback with a crisp sound and a lighter actuation force, the Cliff switches are an excellent option, especially for typists who appreciate that satisfying tactile bump to enhance their typing accuracy and provide auditory satisfaction. This switch is ideal for those who spend long hours typing and benefit from the feedback, making every keystroke more enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keypress without tactile interruptions and a poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar will likely serve you better. These linear switches offer a seamless typing experience, great for gaming or long typing sessions where you want rapid key presses without the tactile feedback slowing you down. Ultimately, consider what aspects of typing you value most—tactility and sound with the Cliff or smoothness and reliability with the Everfree Cedar—to enhance your keyboard experience.
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