Huano Elf vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Huano Elf and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offers distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Huano Elf switches are recognized for their POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also provides a deep sound signature that contributes to a gratifying typing experience with a medium-light feel. These qualities make the Elf a favored choice among users seeking a rich auditory feedback combined with a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar excels in delivering a smooth and reliable performance, thanks to Gateron’s trusted proprietary mold, all while being a cost-effective option from their sub-brand. The poppy sound profile of the Cedar adds a unique character to its linear action, appealing to those who appreciate an engaging auditory experience without breaking the bank. Both switches cater to different user needs—whether you're inclined towards the acoustic depth of the Huano Elf or the budget-friendly reliability of the Gateron Everfree Cedar, your typing preference plays a crucial role in your decision. 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
42g
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
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
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
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Huano Elf and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, a notable distinction arises in the choice of top housing materials: the Elf utilizes a POK material, while the Everfree opts for polycarbonate. The POK material is lauded for its smoothness and durability, exhibiting a higher coefficient of friction and unparalleled shock resistance compared to other plastics like Nylon and POM. This contributes to the Elf's overall characteristics, resulting in a smooth and clacky sound profile when typing. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Everfree Cedar offers a sharper, crisper sound due to its inherent stiffness, which enhances the resonance and clarity of the keystrokes. This difference in material directly impacts the auditory experience of each switch, imparting unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences in users.
Interestingly, both the Elf and the Everfree Cedar share a common element in their bottom housing materials—Nylon. Renowned as a classic switch housing material, Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile that is distinctly softer, allowing it to absorb noise more effectively than harder plastics. This commonality means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience in the lower range of sounds produced when typing. Both switches harness the acoustic qualities of Nylon to create a rounding effect on the sound and lend an overall warmth that complements their respective top housing materials, albeit in different ways.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housing materials in both switches distinguishes their overall sound and feel. While the Elf's POK top adds smoothness and brightness to the sound profile, the Everfree Cedar's polycarbonate top emphasizes higher-pitched clarity. However, with both switches utilizing Nylon for their bottom housings, they maintain a shared characteristic that grounds their sound experience in the deeper, fuller tonal spectrum. Users drawn to the clack of the Elf can still find the warm comfort of the Nylon's acoustic profile in the Everfree Cedar, bridging the gap between the smooth and the crisp to offer a rich typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation forces. The Huano Elf requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Gateron Everfree Cedar has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions might be drawn to the Huano Elf, as it requires less effort to actuate, making it potentially more comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Everfree Cedar, with its higher actuation force, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Unfortunately, both switches have their bottom out forces listed as unavailable, so we cannot compare this aspect directly. Overall, the Huano Elf provides a lighter touch, while the Gateron Everfree Cedar presents a heftier response for those who favor a stronger actuation feel.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom. This equivalence in travel distance results in a similar tactile experience for users, as both switches require the same amount of keypress depth. Therefore, individuals who prefer either switch can expect comparable results in terms of key travel, leading to a consistent feel and responsiveness regardless of the chosen switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf linear switch is characterized by a deep sound signature, enhanced by its POK top housing that improves acoustics. This contributes to a rich auditory feedback that many enthusiasts find satisfying during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches feature a poppy sound profile, likely resulting from Gateron's proprietary mold design. This sound can be considered more lively and engaging, making it a fitting choice for users who enjoy a more dynamic auditory experience. Both switches, however, will be influenced by the keyboard construction and type of keycaps used, meaning the final sound will vary with different setups.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf switch offers a medium-light actuation force, which combines a smooth linear travel with a satisfying typing experience. This balance fosters comfortable prolonged use, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is designed for smooth and reliable performance, although the specific feel regarding actuation force isn't detailed. Users can expect a comparable degree of smoothness from both switches, but the exact tactile sensation may differ based on personal preferences and usage styles.
In summary, both the Huano Elf and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches bring unique attributes to the table. The Elf excels in delivering a deep, rich sound with a medium-light feel, while the Everfree Cedar offers a lively poppy sound along with smooth performance. Ultimately, users seeking similar qualities may find either switch accommodating, especially when individual preferences in sound and feel are considered.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, your preferences and intended use will play a crucial role. If you prioritize an enhanced acoustic experience paired with a medium-light feel, the Elf switch could be your ideal choice. Its POK top housing not only amplifies sound depth but also provides a unique typing sensation, making it suitable for both gamers who enjoy satisfying keystrokes and typists who crave an emotional experience in their writing. On the other hand, if you’re looking for reliable, smooth performance at a cost-effective price, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar will serve you well. Its design ensures that you receive a poppy sound profile and a straightforward typing experience, which can be especially beneficial if you’re new to mechanical keyboards and want to focus on building your skills without the distractions of excessive acoustic or tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you value a more nuanced auditory experience or prefer a straightforward, dependable switch that gets the job done efficiently.
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