Dareu Dream vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Dream and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar both stand out as notable linear options, each catering to specific preferences among gamers and typists. The Dareu Dream is celebrated for its light actuation force, providing an easy-to-press feel that is not only satisfying but also budget-friendly, making it an ideal pick for enthusiasts who prioritize both quality and affordability. Meanwhile, the Gateron Everfree Cedar switches are designed to offer smooth and reliable performance, accompanied by a pleasing poppy sound profile, appealing to users who crave an engaging auditory experience while typing. Both switches bring unique advantages to the table, with the Dream leaning towards clackiness and a milder feedback profile, whereas the Everfree Cedar emphasizes a satisfying auditory response. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar are strikingly similar, particularly in their top housing composition, which is made from polycarbonate. This consistency in material leads to a comparable sound profile, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tonal quality. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, which is especially valuable for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as the translucency of the material enhances the visual effects produced by the lighting. Thus, both switches, by utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, will effectively deliver similar auditory characteristics and aesthetic advantages.
Conversely, the bottom housing of the Dareu Dream and Gateron Everfree EF Cedar diverges in material, with both employing nylon, a classic switch housing substance. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb sound more effectively than stiffer plastics, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This trait allows the bottom-out sound produced when the switch is fully pressed down to resonate with a rounder and duller quality. Even though both switches have the same material for the bottom housing, the unity in material lends them both the same acoustic qualities, ensuring the full sound experience is consistently enveloped by nylon, regardless of the differences in the top housing.
Summarily, while both the Dareu Dream and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in sharp and resonant sound effects, they complement each other with nylon in their bottom housings that produce a deeper and rounder sound profile. The combination of these materials allows each switch to have distinct sound separation, where the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, and the bottom housing influences the sound and feel when pressing down. Therefore, while the two switches share material qualities in their corresponding houses, the resultant auditory experience retains a carefully harmonized balance due to the inherent properties of each material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it the lighter option, while the Everfree Cedar requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams, giving it a heavier feel. However, the bottom out forces for both switches are unknown, which means we cannot make a direct comparison in that aspect. For users who prefer a softer touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the lighter Dareu Dream would be more suitable. Conversely, those who enjoy a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Gateron Everfree Cedar due to its heavier actuation force. Both switches, lacking specified bottom out forces, may offer different overall typing experiences based on their actuation characteristics.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Dream having a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everfree Cedar measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Dream the longer option, providing a more traditional depth that some users may find more satisfying, especially those who appreciate a heftier feel when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Everfree Cedar may appeal to gamers and those seeking swifter responses, as it allows for quicker actuation. While both switches serve distinct preferences, the choice ultimately comes down to whether one favors the deeper engagement of the longer travel distance or the more rapid response of the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Dareu Dream linear switch is recognized for its clacky profile, which produces a sharp and snappy acoustic feedback when keys are pressed. This crisp and bright sound adds a lively character to the typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke is audible and engaging. On the other hand, while specific details about the sound profile of the Gateron Everfree EF Cedar are not provided, it is implied that it offers a more subdued auditory experience with a focus on smoothness and reliability. However, it’s important to note that sound characteristics can vary significantly based on the choice of keyboard, board material, and keycaps used, potentially leading to a modifiable auditory experience with either switch.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switch is characterized as easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This gentle resistance enhances comfort and minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Additionally, its mildness means it strikes a balance between different characteristics, providing a typing experience that is approachable for a wide range of users. Unfortunately, details regarding the tactile feel of the Gateron Everfree EF Cedar switch have not been specified, leaving an aspect of its user experience unknown.
Overall, both the Dareu Dream and Gateron Everfree EF Cedar linear switches cater to newcomers seeking quality performance at an affordable price point. While the Dream stands out for its clacky sound and user-friendly feel, specific attributes of the Everfree Cedar remain undisclosed, particularly concerning its sound and tactile characteristics. For those looking for a smooth and reliable typing experience, both switches ultimately promise to deliver satisfaction, albeit with potentially different auditory experiences. Users seeking similar typing results may find that the light touch and comfort of the Dareu Dream provide a clear advantage unless the Everfree Cedar possesses unexamined qualities that might surprise.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a lightweight switch that provides an effortless and comfortable typing experience, the Dareu Dream is an excellent option. Its clacky sound profile adds an engaging element to your typing, making it particularly ideal for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback. This switch is perfect for long writing sessions or gaming where minimal finger fatigue and a quick response are key.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a smooth and reliable performance without the need for a pronounced sound, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar might be the better choice. Known for its cost-effectiveness and satisfaction in usage, it offers a balanced feel that can cater well to both typing and gaming. While the sound profile may not be emphasized, the quality derived from Gateron's proprietary mold ensures that you'll receive a solid experience. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lighter, more auditory typing experience with the Dareu Dream or a smooth and quiet operation with the Everfree (EF) Cedar.
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