Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two excellent options to consider are the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Everfree Cedar. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches stand out with their tactile feedback and pronounced auditory profile, offering a delightful pop and clack that embraces a lively typing experience. These switches are perfect for users who enjoy a bouncy, accented feel that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree Cedar switches present a smooth and linear alternative, prioritizing a consistent keystroke without tactile bumps, making them ideal for those seeking a quieter, more streamlined experience. With their budget-friendly pricing and reliable performance, both switches cater to different preferences based on sound and tactile sensation. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar share a similarity in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that enhances the overall auditory experience when typing. The polycarbonate’s stiffness allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, making it particularly advantageous for users who want to utilize RGB lighting. Both switches feature a translucency that draws focus to the illumination effects, providing an aesthetically pleasing experience. Thus, users will enjoy a similar auditory clarity when engaged with either switch due to this shared material in the top housing.
In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar differ in their bottom housing materials, with both switches featuring nylon. This classic material offers a distinct auditory profile, delivering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more noise, leading to a rounded and muted bottom-out sound. Therefore, while the top housings of both switches provide a crisp and resonant sound, the bottom housings create a more nuanced auditory experience, making the typing experience feel more solid and cushioned. This division of sound characteristics means that the overall sound profile varies, depending on how each housing material contributes to the switch's performance dynamics.
Ultimately, the combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both switches results in a hybrid sound profile that offers the best of both worlds: clarity from the top and depth from the bottom. While users will experience a similar sharpness and resonance with either switch due to the polycarbonate top, the nylon bottom significantly influences how the key feels when bottomed out, creating a more complex and textured typing experience. Therefore, while the tonal qualities might overlap due to shared housing materials at one end, the full sensory experience is shaped by the unique interplay between the distinct sound profiles stemming from the combination of these materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch with the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, the differences in actuation force stand out. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree Cedar switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, implying a heavier tactile response that may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. While the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, the general trend suggests that a switch with a heavier actuation force typically corresponds to a stronger bottom out experience. As a result, users who favor lighter switches may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, whereas those who enjoy a firmer, more tactile experience would find the Gateron Everfree Cedar more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm while the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Hence, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is the shorter option, making it more suitable for gamers or users seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel and depth with their keystrokes. The difference in travel distances signifies that users might experience varying levels of responsiveness and tactile feedback based on their chosen switch, aligning with personal preferences for either quick key presses or a more pronounced typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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
In terms of sound, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches produce a distinctively poppy and clacky sound profile that is highly sought after by users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing or gaming. This engaging sound not only adds to the joy of each keystroke but also complements the tactile feedback, creating an immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree Cedar switches also feature a satisfying, poppy sound profile, albeit without the pronounced clackiness associated with more tactile switches. Instead, they provide a smoother acoustic experience that allows for quieter operation while still delivering enough sound to signal a successful key press. This difference in sound can significantly affect the typing atmosphere based on individual preferences.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are characterized by their accented tactility, offering a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor understated. Their bouncy feedback and snappy response make for an engaging typing experience, with each keypress feeling lively and responsive. Additionally, their polished finish contributes to a smooth operation that enhances the overall satisfaction. In contrast, the Everfree Cedar linear switches are designed for a smooth experience without any tactile bump, which appeals to those who prefer a seamless key travel. While the lack of tactile feedback may result in a more straightforward and fluid typing experience, the absence of tactile qualities means users might miss the dynamic feel that comes with the Cream Blue Pro.
In summary, while both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Gateron Everfree Cedar switches provide enjoyable auditory experiences, they diverge in their tactile feedback and overall feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a more pronounced tactile and bouncy typing sensation, appealing to those who love an interactive experience with their keyboard. Meanwhile, the Everfree Cedar provides a smoother, linear feel perfect for users who prefer minimalist action without tactile bumps. Therefore, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or a more subdued, continuous feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're the type of user who enjoys an engaging and auditory typing experience, the Cream Blue Pro might be your ideal choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, coupled with its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, provides a lively and rewarding feedback. The tactile nature of this switch, characterized by an accented and bouncy feel, allows for an enjoyable typing experience that’s responsive and smooth, making it an excellent option for both gaming and typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter environment or enjoy a more subdued typing sensation, the Everfree Cedar linear switch could be the better fit for you. Although the bottom-out force is not specified, Gateron switches are known for their reliable performance and smooth operation, making them ideal for those who prioritize a smoother keypress without the tactile bump. The linear design offers a straightforward travel without the interruption of tactile feedback, resulting in a clean and consistent typing experience that many users find comfortable for extended use.
In summary, if your priority is the engaging feedback and sound typical of a tactile switch, then the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. Conversely, if you value smoothness and a less intrusive typing sound, the Gateron Everfree Cedar would likely satisfy your needs. Your decision should reflect your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you seek in a mechanical keyboard.
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