HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Deep Navy, renowned for its rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, features a durable nylon construction and employs the Ly stem to enhance the tactile experience. This switch is perfect for enthusiasts seeking a premium feel and auditory satisfaction in their typing experience. In contrast, the Everfree Cedar switches present a cost-effective option, celebrated for their smooth, reliable performance and satisfying poppy sound profile. Utilizing Gateron’s trusted proprietary mold, these switches are ideal for users who want consistency and value without compromising on quality. While both switches provide linear actuation for a fluid typing experience, they diverge greatly in sound and build quality. 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
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar exhibit a fascinating contrast in their acoustic and tactile characteristics due to the differences in the materials used for their top housings. The Deep Navy features a nylon top housing, noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer texture, which helps absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience when typing. In stark contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar employs a polycarbonate top housing that renders a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer composition enhances resonance, lending a crisper clarity to the auditory feedback. If one were to seek a typing experience that focuses on warmth and depth, the nylon top of the Deep Navy may be preferable, while those desiring a clearer and more vibrant acoustic feedback might gravitate towards the polycarbonate of the Gateron switch.
On the bottom housing front, both the Deep Navy and the Everfree (EF) Cedar utilize nylon for their constructions, which results in a consistent characteristic: a deeper, fuller sound profile. This commonality indicates that when typing on either switch, the bottom-out sound and feel will exhibit the same nylon qualities, amplifying the rich audio experience that this material promotes. The use of nylon bottom housings in both switches ensures that no matter the distinction brought by the top housings, the tactile feedback remains grounded in the familiar, velvety feel characteristic of nylon. Therefore, while the two switches differ significantly in their top housing materials and associated sound profiles, they retain a shared depth and warmth in their bottom-out experience due to the identical bottom housing.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, it's important to recognize how these different materials influence the typing experience. While the Deep Navy's nylon top creates that enveloping auditory environment, the Everfree (EF) Cedar sharpens the experience with its polycarbonate's clarity. However, the nylon bottom housing serves as a leveling ground, ensuring a consistent tactile response across both switches. This juxtaposition highlights how the interaction between different material qualities can create a multifaceted typing experience, depending on what users prioritize in sound and feel. Ultimately, typists will find that while certain sonic characteristics may vary, the familiar foundation provided by nylon in the bottom housing allows for a cohesive interaction regardless of their choice.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, a distinct difference in actuation force can be observed. The Deep Navy boasts a light actuation force of 40 grams, requiring less effort for keystrokes—ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Everfree Cedar has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. Regarding bottom out forces, the Deep Navy's bottom out force is 45 grams, indicating a clear resistance when fully pressed, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar remains unknown. Consequently, users seeking a lighter switch will find the Deep Navy to better suit their needs, whereas those favoring a heavier feel should opt for the Everfree Cedar. The difference in these forces illustrates how personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch both exhibit a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when pressed, they inhibit the same amount of key travel from the top to the bottom. This equal travel distance suggests that users can expect a similar tactile experience when typing or gaming on keyboards equipped with either switch. Consequently, those who prefer key switches with a travel distance of 3.6 mm will find that both the Deep Navy and the Everfree (EF) Cedar provide identical performance in that regard, offering consistent feedback and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by its rich and sharp sound profile, which pairs well with the full nylon construction that enhances acoustics. This combination delivers a unique auditory experience that many typists and gamers find appealing. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch produces a satisfying, poppy sound that stems from its reliable and cost-effective design using Gateron's proprietary mold. While the Deep Navy emphasizes a more nuanced audio quality, the Everfree Cedar's sound is lively and engaging. It’s important to note that the overall sound experience will depend heavily on the choice of keyboard board and keycaps used with either switch.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Deep Navy switch provides a silky smooth keystroke experience, thanks to its Ly stem design. This smoothness contributes to a refined typing experience that users often seek for both casual and professional applications. On the contrary, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is designed for smooth and reliable performance without being overly complex, ensuring a solid feel that appeals to budget-conscious typists. While both switches aim for smoothness, the Deep Navy may provide a more premium tactile response tailored for a luxurious feel.
Overall, the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches cater to different user preferences while offering some similarities. The Deep Navy stands out with its rich sound and silky smoothness, aiming for a refined experience, whereas the Everfree Cedar appeals to those looking for a cost-effective yet satisfying option with a poppy sound. If you prioritize an elegant acoustic profile and superb tactile feedback, the Deep Navy might be the way to go. However, if you're searching for dependable performance at a lower price point, the Everfree Cedar provides a compelling case. In either scenario, choosing the right keyboard and keycaps will play a significant role in achieving the ideal typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and needs in typing experience. If you prefer a lighter force with a smooth, silky feel and a richer, sharper sound profile, the Deep Navy is an excellent option, particularly if you enjoy a satisfying acoustic feedback that enhances your typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who might engage in longer typing sessions without fatigue, thanks to its low actuation force. On the other hand, if you are looking for a cost-effective switch that provides reliable performance with a distinct poppy sound and a firm yet smooth typing experience, the Everfree Cedar could be the better choice for you. While the bottom out force is a bit of a mystery, the established reputation of Gateron’s proprietary mold suggests that you’ll enjoy a dependable feel across the board. In the end, consider your preferences for sound, feel, and the overall tactile experience when making your decision; this way, you’ll select the switch that truly enhances your mechanical keyboard journey.
Mentioned in this article
