Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Gold Brown Pro represent two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The Everfree Cedar, known for its smooth and reliable linear performance, is ideal for avid gamers and typists who prefer swift keystrokes without the distraction of tactile feedback. This switch promises a satisfying, poppy sound with each press, making it a popular choice for those who thrive on quick, fluid movements. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a more nuanced experience with its gentle tactile bump, appealing to users who seek subtle feedback as they type. This switch allows for an immersive typing experience, letting typists maintain their concentration while enjoying a muted sound profile that blends into the background. Each switch has its unique strengths, whether you prioritize speed and seamlessness or prefer a tactile feel with understated sound. 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
45g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and TTC Gold Brown Pro both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which significantly influences their auditory characteristics. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, lending both switches a crispness that can enhance the overall typing experience. Furthermore, the use of this material allows for excellent translucency, making it ideal for users who enjoy RGB lighting in their keyboards. With both switches featuring polycarbonate tops, users can expect a similar sound clarity and responsiveness, enhancing the aesthetic appeal if the switches are integrated into a backlit setup.
In contrast, both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Gold Brown Pro employ nylon as the material for their bottom housings, leading to a noticeable difference in how each switch sounds and feels when typing. Nylon, a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic gives the switches a rounder and more muted bottom-out sound, contrasting with the higher pitch produced by the polycarbonate top. Since both switches share this nylon bottom housing, players can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing the keys, but they may notice variations in overall sound signature due to the different qualities of each top housing.
When combined, the unique properties of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom of each switch ultimately create a distinct acoustic profile. The mix of a sharp, crisp sound from the polycarbonate top with the deep, muffled tones from the nylon bottom means that both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and TTC Gold Brown Pro can produce a well-balanced auditory experience. Users familiar with one switch will likely adapt well to the other, as they share significant material attributes that lead to similar typing experiences. However, the specific tonal qualities and sound resonance will differ slightly due to the variations in their design and composition, allowing keyboard enthusiasts a choice between two distinct yet comparably themed options.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it the heavier option, while the Gold Brown Pro’s actuation force is lighter at 45 grams. This means that typists who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may favor the Gold Brown Pro for its ease of activation. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, preventing a direct comparison of that specific metric. However, with the Everfree being heavier in actuation force, it may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a firmer feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as they cater to different tactile feedback desires.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, we find that the Everfree switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Brown Pro measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This means that if you're looking for a quicker and more responsive feel, the Everfree switch may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced key press with a bit more depth, the Gold Brown Pro's longer travel distance would likely be more suitable for your needs. Both switches serve different preferences: the Gateron Everfree caters to those who enjoy faster response times, whereas the TTC Gold Brown Pro appeals to users who appreciate a fuller typing experience.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 offers a satisfying poppy sound profile that is typically associated with linear switches. This sound can be quite engaging, providing a pleasant auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch features a thocky, low-pitched output that is rich and mellow, akin to a soft "knock." Its subdued sound indicates that it won’t disrupt a quiet environment, making it suitable for shared spaces or work settings. While both switches provide different auditory experiences, the Everfree Cedar's distinct pop adds more character to its sound compared to the Gold Brown Pro's more understated nature; however, both switches could potentially produce a satisfying typing experience depending on the keyboard's design and keycap choice.
When considering feel, the Everfree Cedar's characteristics are currently unspecified, but the TTC Gold Brown Pro is known for its polished and silky typing experience. These tactile switches offer a gentle and mild resistance, ensuring minimal friction and providing a smooth travel with each keystroke. The Gold Brown Pro also features a subtle tactility which is marked by a gentle bump that does not dominate the typing experience; this makes them approachable for users across various skill levels. If the Cedar were to provide a smooth experience, it might deliver a comparable typing feel, but without specific details on its characteristics, a definitive comparison is difficult to make.
In conclusion, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches present users with unique qualities. The Everfree Cedar offers a lively and poppy acoustic experience, while the Gold Brown Pro focuses on a quieter, thocky profile. In terms of feel, while the details for the Cedar are missing, the Gold Brown Pro excels with its silky smooth and mild tactile feedback. Choosing between them depends on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback; yet, if you're drawn to a smooth typing experience, the Cedar may very well surprise you.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, the Everfree Cedar is your go-to option. Its linear design delivers a fluid keystroke that is excellent for rapid typing or gaming, especially for those who prefer a lack of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate subtle tactile feedback without overwhelming sound, the Gold Brown Pro is ideal for focused typing sessions. Its gentle bump and low-pitched thocky sound allow you to maintain concentration while still providing that little bit of feedback to ensure each key press is registered. In environments where quiet operation is paramount, the muted character of the Gold Brown Pro makes it a perfect fit. Thus, your decision should reflect not only your typing style but also the ambiance of your workspace and the distractions you wish to manage.
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