Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming experience, comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX FJ400 can provide valuable insights. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a cost-effective option that utilizes Gateron's trusted proprietary mold. Its satisfying, poppy sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 occupies a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, offering a balanced sound profile that appeals to users seeking versatility without sacrificing quality. While both switches fall into the linear category, catering to those who prefer a smooth keystroke devoid of tactile bumps, they diverge in their unique sound experiences and performance characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX FJ400 showcase distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly affect their sound profiles. The EF Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, well-known for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, allowing for a clear resonance that enhances the auditory experience during typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate design makes it ideal for RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through effectively, thereby adding to its aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the FJ400 employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. POM’s unique properties provide a distinct auditory experience that diverges from the crispness found in the EF Cedar, creating a balance of sound quality preferred by different users.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, a notable similarity surfaces: both the Gateron Everfree Cedar and the HMX FJ400 utilize nylon. The nylon construction contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, characteristic of classic switch housing materials. This commonality means that while the top housings impart diverse qualities to the overall sound, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a similar foundation of sound, characterized by its ability to absorb more sound and deliver a duller and rounder auditory feedback. Thus, regardless of the differences present in the top housings, users can expect a certain level of auditory consistency due to the nylon material used in both models.
The combination of different top housing materials in the Everfree Cedar and the FJ400 illustrates the complex interplay of sound characteristics in mechanical switches. As the top housing predominantly influences the release sound when keys are lifted, the specific material used in each can evoke varying auditory experiences. Although the nylon bottom housing brings a unified quality to both switches, the POM and polycarbonate top housings ensure that each offers unique sound profiles tailored to specific preferences. This nuanced engineering allows typists to choose a switch that aligns with their desired auditory feedback while also enjoying a familiar, enveloping sound produced by the nylon material at the base. Thus, users seeking a more pronounced and sharp sound will lean towards the Everfree Cedar, while those desiring a deeper, more muted typing experience may find solace in the FJ400.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces. The Everfree Cedar requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the FJ400 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the FJ400 is easier to press down, which can be advantageous for those who prefer a lighter feel for prolonged typing or extended gaming sessions. In terms of bottom-out force, the FJ400 has a measurable bottom-out force of 58 grams, indicating the level of pressure needed to fully engage the switch. In contrast, the bottom-out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, which makes direct comparisons more challenging. However, since both switches are linear, users can expect a smooth keystroke experience with minimal resistance until the actuation point. Overall, the FJ400 is the lighter option, offering a softer typing experience, while the unknown bottom-out force of the Everfree Cedar leaves its overall heft ambiguous.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, it is evident that they differ slightly. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the FJ400 features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Given that shorter travel distances, like that of the EF Cedar, are often favored by gamers for their quicker response times, those who value speed and rapid keystrokes may opt for this switch. On the other hand, the FJ400, with its longer travel distance, is likely to provide a more pronounced typing experience, catering to those who prefer a more traditional and deeper feel in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference—whether one values responsiveness over depth or vice versa. Thus, the EF Cedar is the shorter option, while the FJ400 offers a longer travel distance.
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 HMX FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 for $3.29.
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 Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is recognized for delivering a satisfying, poppy sound profile that many users appreciate during their typing experience. This auditory feedback can enhance the enjoyment of keystrokes for those who prefer a more engaging and tactile acoustic environment. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile, which suggests a more neutral and less pronounced auditory feedback when compared to the Cedar. While the FJ400 may lack the poppy sound of the Cedar, it provides a subtly pleasing auditory experience that can suit users who prefer a less intrusive sound during their typing.
Regarding feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is designed to offer smooth and reliable performance, making it a great choice for those who value consistent keystrokes without any noticeable friction or interruption. This smooth feel contributes to a pleasurable typing experience that can enhance productivity. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400, being positioned as a middle ground in its switch lineup, likely offers a well-balanced typing experience, though specific details about its tactile characteristics are currently unknown. Users may find the FJ400’s feel to be accommodating for a range of typing styles, but without additional information, it’s difficult to make a precise comparison.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and HMX FJ400 linear switches cater to distinct user preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Cedar provides a more engaging and poppy acoustic profile while allowing for smooth action, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy a lively typing environment. The FJ400, with its balanced sound and potentially versatile feel, may appeal to users looking for a more neutral typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying results, but user preference will significantly influence the best choice for individual typing styles.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch largely hinges on your preferences for sound, feel, and the force required for actuation. If you are looking for a smooth, reliable typing experience combined with a poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar could be an excellent fit for you, especially if you prefer lighter switches that require less actuation effort. This makes it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where finger fatigue could become an issue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced feedback in your keystrokes and are comfortable with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the FJ400 will serve you well. Its balanced sound profile and tactile nature can enhance your typing feel, providing you with a satisfying experience that feels neither too light nor too heavy. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you want your keyboard to sound and feel during everyday use—whether you want the effortless typing of the Everfree Cedar or the more tactile experience of the FJ400.
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