Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Dareu Firefly offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Everfree Cedar is a linear switch that excels in providing smooth and reliable performance with minimal resistance, making it an excellent choice for gamers who value quick, uninterrupted keystrokes. Its satisfying, poppy sound profile adds a layer of sensory feedback, enhancing the overall experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch stands out as a tactile option, offering an easy-to-press design with a subtle hint of clickiness, which can cater to those who enjoy a little feedback without the louder interruptions typical of traditional clicky switches. This compromise makes the Firefly a great fit for typists seeking an engaging experience without overwhelming noise in quieter environments. 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
55g
Actuation force
40g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Dareu Firefly employ similar housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and aesthetic qualities. Both models feature polycarbonate tops, which contribute to a higher-pitched and crisper sound signature. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance when typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through beautifully, making both switches visually appealing and well-suited for illuminated setups. Since both switches share this polycarbonate top housing, they are likely to produce similar auditory experiences, leading users to enjoy a sharp and vibrant sound while typing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches utilize nylon, a classic choice among mechanical switch designs. The nylon construction provides a deeper and more rounded sound profile, attributed to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a cushioned bottom-out sound, enhancing the overall tactile experience when using the switch. As both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Firefly incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect consistent performance regarding the fullness of sound produced during key presses. Consequently, while both switches have distinct top and bottom housing materials, their configurations are well-matched to create complementary auditory characteristics.
When these two switches are utilized, the separation of materials confers a unique dynamic to their sound profiles. The polycarbonate top generates a vibrant, sharp sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom provides a softer sound upon pressing the keys, resulting in a balanced auditory experience. Users familiar with one switch will likely appreciate the familiar sound dynamics of the other due to the shared materials, despite any differences in design or branding. Overall, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Dareu Firefly exemplify how carefully chosen materials contribute to engaging typing experiences, blending aesthetics with acoustic performance seamlessly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, we see some notable differences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, which makes it a heavier switch compared to the Firefly's 40 grams actuation force. This means that for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming, the Firefly would be the more suitable option, while the Everfree Cedar may appeal to users seeking a more robust feel. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, so we cannot compare that specific detail. However, if the bottom out forces were the same, users would experience a similar feel in terms of how deeply they need to press before feeling resistance. Overall, the Everfree Cedar is the heavier option, which may provide a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Firefly offers a lighter and more forgiving touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, the differences are quite notable. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option that can provide a more responsive experience for quick key presses, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Firefly has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which offers a more substantial feel under the fingers and can be preferable for those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, if you're leaning towards speed and quickness, the Everfree Cedar is the option to choose, while the Firefly may be more suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch delivers a satisfying poppy sound profile, which typically adds character to typing experiences without being intrusive. This sound is relatively muted compared to some other switches, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch brings a unique acoustic quality to the forefront. It features a chirpy sound, incorporating a subtle squeak that sets it apart from traditional tactile switches. This distinctive sound signature adds a layer of auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience without being overwhelmingly loud.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is designed for a smooth and linear typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses without tactile bumps or resistance. Users appreciate this for its consistency, making it a great choice for rapid typing and gaming alike. The Dareu Firefly, meanwhile, is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses. With a light actuation force, it requires minimal effort to activate, which contributes to a more comfortable typing experience, especially during extended use. This low-impact feel can reduce finger fatigue, making it appealing for those who type for long periods.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch provides a smooth, poppy auditory experience with a gentle linear action, ideal for users who seek a seamless typing flow. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly offers a unique chirpy acoustic profile paired with a light tactile feedback that promotes comfort and ease of use. While they are distinct in their characteristics, each offers a quality typing experience, allowing newcomers to select based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you value smooth and reliable performance without the distraction of auditory feedback, the Everfree Cedar would be an excellent choice. Its design promotes a poppy sound profile that can enhance your typing experience while maintaining a level of minimalism in sound. This makes them particularly suitable for both gaming and typing, especially in quieter environments where you may want to avoid excess noise.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that balances tactile feel with a light actuation force, the Firefly may be more appealing. Its chirpy sound adds a unique element without the traditional clickiness that some users find distracting. The easy-to-press nature of the Firefly allows for comfortable, prolonged usage, making it ideal for heavy typists or those who prioritize a responsive touch in their keystrokes. Both switches have their unique strengths, so think about your typical usage scenarios and personal preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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