Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a seamless and uninterrupted typing experience. This cost-effective option from Gateron's sub-brand is not only budget-friendly but also features a satisfying poppy sound profile that enhances the overall typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown presents a different appeal as a tactile switch, designed to deliver a subtle yet enjoyable feedback with a gentle bump that reinforces each keypress without hindering typing flow. This switch is also part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series and boasts a frosted light diffuser that amplifies RGB lighting, creating an engaging visual experience alongside a medium-high pitch auditory feedback. While the Everfree Cedar excels in smoothness and quiet operation, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a tactile sensation that many typists find satisfying. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Double-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both utilize similar materials for their top housings, namely polycarbonate. This choice of material yields a distinctive sound profile characterized by a higher pitch and a crisp sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, making both switches suitable for users seeking an enhanced sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate enhances aesthetics, especially for setups employing RGB lighting solutions, potentially allowing both switches to shine in visually appealing ways when paired with colorful lighting.
In contrast to their top housings, both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, a material known for its sound-dampening properties. Nylon's softer characteristics contribute to a deeper, rounder sound profile by absorbing sound rather than transmitting it, resulting in a fuller auditory response when typing. Thus, when the switches are actuated, the nylon bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that despite the clear and crisp sound produced by the polycarbonate top, the nylon bottom ensures a complementary auditory experience that balances the overall sound profile.
Ultimately, while both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and G Pro 3.0 Brown share the same materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar sound profiles, the combination of these materials yields a well-rounded experience for the user. The polycarbonate top creates a bright sound while the nylon bottom modulates it, allowing for both clarity and depth in the typing experience. Consequently, users can expect comparable acoustic effects from both switches, making them appealing options for those searching for an engaging tactile experience that is both pleasing to the ears and to the eyes, particularly in illuminated settings.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it is notable that both switches have an identical actuation force of 55 grams. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable keystroke trigger experience from each switch, which is beneficial for sustained typing and gaming sessions, as both switches strike a balance between comfort and resistance. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a specified force of 63 grams, making it heavier at the bottom than the Everfree Cedar, for which the bottom out force is unknown. As a result, while the typing experience during regular use may feel similar, the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more substantial feel upon bottoming out, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feedback when fully pressing down on a key. Overall, for those who prefer a lighter touch for lengthy sessions, the Everfree Cedar may be more appealing, while gamers and typists seeking a stronger, more tactile response might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means the G Pro 3.0 Brown, with its 4 mm travel, offers a longer and deeper keypress experience, which can feel more substantial and satisfying for typists who prefer that extra feedback. In contrast, the Everfree Cedar's shorter 3.6 mm travel may provide quicker response times, appealing to gamers who value speed and efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference: if you favor a more responsive action, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is the better option, while those who appreciate a hearty, tactile feeling will likely prefer the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 offers a satisfying, subtle auditory feedback characterized as poppy, which can enhance the tactile typing experience. The sound profile is noted for being smooth and reliable, engaging the typist without being overly intrusive. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound that delivers delightful auditory feedback, emphasizing a more pronounced yet still pleasant auditory experience. The sound characteristics of both switches can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but generally, the Cedar is more muted and subdued while the Brown offers a more vibrant sound that may appeal to those who enjoy a clearer acoustic response.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar excels in smoothness, providing a linear typing experience that prioritizes fluid movement without any tactile bump. This makes it very straightforward for users who prefer a clean keystroke from actuation to bottoming out. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is designed with a gentle tactile sensation that gives it a mild feel. The key presses require minimal force to actuate, thanks to its easy-to-press design. Additionally, the Brown switch supports a stepped tactile feedback profile, allowing users to feel a slight bump without overwhelming them, providing an approachable middle ground for typists who may prefer a bit of tactile engagement without the harshness often associated with more pronounced switches.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar focuses on delivering a smooth, linear sound and feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown brings a charming tactile experience alongside a more pronounced auditory profile. Both switches serve as excellent options within their respective niches; the Cedar for those who prefer linear actuation with subdued feedback, and the Brown for those who appreciate a gentle tactile sensation coupled with satisfying sound. Ultimately, both switches can provide good typing experiences, catering to different preferences and styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted typing experience that allows for rapid key presses without tactile feedback, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent option. Its linear design facilitates quick transitions between key activations, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks where every millisecond counts. On the other hand, if you enjoy feeling a tactile response with each key press, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a better fit. These switches provide a mild tactile bump that adds a sense of purpose to your typing without being overwhelming, making them suitable for both typing and casual gaming. Additionally, if sound profile matters to you, the G Pro Brown enhances your experience with its satisfying auditory feedback, enriching your overall connection to the keyboard. In essence, choose the Everfree Cedar for smoothness and speed, while opting for the G Pro Brown if you’d like a tactile sensation and auditory engagement.
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