Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing options that cater to differing preferences for feel and sound. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who crave a premium typing experience. Known for their unique poppy and clacky sound, these linear switches not only provide a pleasing auditory feedback but are also remarkably smooth and responsive, making them ideal for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches offer similarly reliable performance at an affable price point, benefiting from Gateron's renowned manufacturing quality. The Everfree Cedars deliver a satisfying sound profile while maintaining a focus on functionality and durability. While both switches are designed to provide a linear feel and cater to users looking for a smooth experience, their tonal characteristics and tactile sensations differ, creating unique vibes for each. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, a material known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity and resonance of the click sound, which is especially pronounced when the switch is activated. Additionally, its translucency plays a significant role in enhancing RGB lighting effects, as it allows light to pass through more effectively, creating a vibrant visual experience. Both switches, therefore, share a similar auditory and aesthetic quality due to their identical choice of top housing material, promising comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when paired in backlit setups.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these switches diverge in terms of the sound character they produce. Both the Akko V3 and Gateron Everfree utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a distinctively deeper and fuller sound profile compared to their polycarbonate tops. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a more rounded and muted auditory experience when the switch bottoms out. The nylon material in the bottom housing contributes to a richer typing feel and sound, creating a pleasant contrast to the sharper notes from the polycarbonate tops. Thus, the overall sound experience—while sharing a crystalline quality due to the top housing—will maintain a balance of both sharpness and depth thanks to the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, even when top and bottom housing materials remain the same across switches, the interaction of these differing materials plays a vital role in the final sound and tactile experience. In the case of the Akko V3 and Gateron Everfree, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon across both switches effectively capitalizes on the contrasting sound signatures brought in by these materials. Users can expect similar auditory outcomes from the top portions, yet enjoy nuanced differences in tactile feedback and bottom-out sound due to the variations in the bottom housing. Overall, this blend of materials enables both switches to cater to a range of typing preferences while still resonating harmoniously together in performance.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch share the same actuation force of 55 grams, making them comparable in terms of the effort needed to trigger a keystroke. This equal actuation force suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience when it comes to initiating a keypress, making them suitable for both long typing sessions and extended gaming. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly: the V3 Cream Black Pro has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when the switch is fully pressed down, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable. As a result, we can conclude that the Akko switch offers a heavier overall feel due to its higher bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the lack of a specified bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar leaves uncertainty about its overall weight and responsiveness when fully depressed. Thus, if a lighter touch is desired, the Everfree Cedar might potentially provide that, but without specific values, it's hard to make a definitive comparison.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, distinct differences can be noted. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you prefer a quicker response time often favored by gamers, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better option. Conversely, if you enjoy a more substantial depth in your key presses, the Gateron Everfree Cedar, with its longer travel distance, may be more appealing. Overall, the choice between the two hinges on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are characterized by a high-pitched, poppy, and clacky sound that is both sharp and crisp. This can make for an engaging auditory experience, especially for those who appreciate a more vibrant sound profile that stands out against the quieter tones of other switch options. In comparison, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches also feature a satisfying poppy sound, details regarding their specific sound characteristics are not available. Thus, it is unclear whether they would offer the same high-pitched auditory feedback that the V3 Cream Black Pro is known for.
In terms of feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switches excel with their creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished characteristics. This combination results in a typing experience that is smooth and buttery, with a satisfyingly responsive spring-back action. The feel is enhanced by the likely presence of factory lubrication and the specific materials used in construction, allowing for a delightful gliding sensation when typing. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar’s tactile qualities, however, are not described, leaving a gap in understanding how they might compare in terms of smoothness, responsiveness, or overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches are well-regarded for their pronounced auditory and tactile characteristics, particularly their high-pitched sound and creamy feel, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches promise reliable performance at a budget-friendly price, although specific traits remain unknown. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with an engaging sound and a polished feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be your best option, while the Everfree Cedar might serve those seeking a cost-effective alternative without the same level of detailed feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches, it is crucial to consider your preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you gravitate towards a more distinctive auditory experience with poppy and clacky sounds, and appreciate a medium-heavy feel with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, then the V3 Cream Black Pro is an excellent choice. Its creamy and bouncy characteristics ensure a smooth, responsive typing experience that will make every keystroke feel lively and effortless, perfect for those who are looking for both auditory and tactile satisfaction. Conversely, if you seek a straightforward, cost-effective option that delivers reliable performance without the medium-heavy force, the Everfree Cedar is worth considering. While specific sound profiles aren't described as vividly as the V3 Cream Black Pro, it nonetheless provides a satisfying experience, making it suitable for users who prefer a more subdued feel or are new to mechanical keyboards and want to start with something gentle. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style and sensory preferences, guiding you towards the switch that will enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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