KTT Darling vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offer distinct experiences, particularly for those who prefer linear switches. The KTT Darling stands out with its unique "chewy" typing sensation and pronounced bounciness, allowing for a satisfying depth in each keystroke that many typists find rewarding. This switch not only feels substantial but also provides an engaging high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, delivering a resonant auditory experience that appeals to those who enjoy a more dynamic feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar focuses on smooth and reliable performance, presenting itself as a cost-effective option without compromising quality. With its satisfying poppy sound profile, it offers a more understated auditory experience, making it a suitable choice for users who favor subtlety in their typing. Both switches come with their own unique attributes, offering distinct advantages for different typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Darling Linear

Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar Linear

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

$2.99

$2.75 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Darling and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches both feature polycarbonate in their top housings, which leads to several similarities in their acoustic profiles. As polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, this material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This characteristic enhances the overall sound quality, making the sounds produced by the keystrokes more resonant and vibrant, particularly when illuminated with RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate in both switches allows light to pass through effectively, making them visually appealing in setups that utilize backlighting. Thus, when it comes to the top housing, users can expect similar auditory and aesthetic results from both the Darling and EF Cedar switches.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the KTT Darling and Gateron Everfree switches utilize nylon, which significantly impacts their sound profile and typing experience. Nylon is known for its softer nature compared to other plastic materials, allowing it to absorb more sound and thus create a deeper, fuller auditory response. This characteristic leads to a rounder and more subdued sound when the key bottoms out. Both switches, therefore, provide users with a complex blend of auditory experiences, where the bottom housing contributes to the deeper tones while the top housing maintains the higher-pitched clarity. As such, the nylon in the bottom housing of both switches complements the acoustic qualities of their polycarbonate tops, creating a balanced sound profile.

When evaluating the overall performance of the KTT Darling and Gateron Everfree switches, it is evident that the combination of materials used in both models leads to a harmonized typing experience. While the top housings create a crisp sound due to polycarbonate, the nylon bottom housings soften the auditory experience with deeper tones. This division of characteristics means that while each switch may utilize the same materials, users will experience unique sound profiles shaped by the interaction of both the top and bottom housings. Consequently, despite using comparative materials, the individual impacts on sound and feel during usage will create a distinctive feel, depending on how users engage with these switches.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch to the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, we see notable differences in the actuation force while the bottom out force for the Everfree is unknown. The KTT Darling has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. The bottom out force for the Darling is measured at 53 grams, providing additional resistance when the switch is fully pressed down, which can enhance the tactile feedback for its users. Since the bottom out force for the Everfree is unavailable, we cannot compare that aspect directly; however, based on the available information, the Darling is generally the lighter option, while the Everfree is heavier, providing different experiences based on user preference.

Travel distance

The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This distinction means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel during your typing or gaming sessions, the Darling switch may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial depth while pressing down on keys might find the Everfree Cedar more to their liking, as the additional millimeter can provide a less abrupt experience. Overall, while both switches offer a similar linear response, the Darling is slightly shorter, making it more suited for fast-paced activities, whereas the Everfree Cedar caters to users who prefer a bit more travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the KTT Darling and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, the Darling clearly stands out with its distinct acoustic profile. It offers a clacky and high-pitched resonance that makes each keystroke feel sharp and percussive. The sound is described as both crisp and bright, resulting in an engaging auditory experience that's clean and immersive. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a poppy sound that, while reliable and satisfying, may not reach the same level of complexity or resonance as the Darling. This sound quality indicates that those who prefer an engaging and high-pitched auditory feedback might lean more toward the Darling, especially since the overall sound profile on both switches is influenced heavily by factors like the keyboard frame and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the KTT Darling excels with its unique tactile experience. The switch offers a bouncy sensation, evoking a lively, spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience. This rebounding effect provides a sense of satisfaction and engagement with each keystroke, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more dynamic typing feel. There's no specific description available for the feel of the Everfree (EF) Cedar, which leaves a gap in comparison. However, it can be inferred that, as a linear switch, it aims to provide a smooth typing experience, but without any additional descriptors, it's challenging to ascertain how it might measure up against the delightful bounciness of the Darling.

Overall, while both switches serve the purpose of providing linear motion and smooth key presses, the KTT Darling offers significantly more in both sound and feel. With its clacky, high-pitched acoustics and enjoyable bounciness, it caters well to those who prioritize a tactile and auditory experience. Conversely, the Everfree (EF) Cedar, while reliable and cost-effective, may not provide the same level of engagement in these qualities. Users who are particularly focused on sound and feel may find the KTT Darling more appealing for a satisfying typing journey, whereas the Everfree (EF) Cedar can serve as a competent option for those prioritizing smooth performance.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the KTT Darling and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a more substantial and engaging typing sensation with a medium-light actuation force, the Darling is an excellent choice. Its chewy feel and pronounced bounciness can make for a satisfying typing experience, especially if you appreciate the lively feedback and resonant, higher-pitched sounds that accompany each keystroke. In contrast, if you're looking for a smooth, reliable switch and prefer a more straightforward auditory profile, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar could be more appealing. Although less is known about its specific acoustic characteristics, it’s recognized for delivering consistent performance without the pronounced high-pitched sound of the Darling, making it a great option if you seek something less intrusive. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you favor a more tactile and audibly rich experience with the Darling or a smoother and more subdued performance with the Everfree (EF) Cedar.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Darling Linear

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar Linear

$2.99

$2.75 per 10

Learn more