Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Grapefruit each offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, delivering a satisfying poppy sound that enhances the typing experience while remaining a cost-effective option. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit presents a unique experience with its soft and light feel, accompanied by a low-pitched baritone sound profile that adds a polished touch to your keystrokes. Both switches fall under the linear category, promising a fluid actuation without tactile bumps, but their sound and tactile qualities set them apart. Ultimately, choosing between the two boils down to personal preference, whether you're drawn to the punchy feedback of the Everfree Cedar or the mellow vibe of the Grapefruit. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Grapefruit both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which engenders a similar auditory experience. The polycarbonate's inherent stiffness results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is notably crisp and clear. This characteristic allows both switches to resonate effectively, producing a sound that is well-defined and satisfying. Additionally, the clear nature of the polycarbonate enhances aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is incorporated, creating striking and vivid illumination effects. Thus, users can expect comparable sound quality and visual effects from both the Everfree and the Grapefruit, confirming their shared material choice at the top of the housing.
Beneath the surface, both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Grapefruit feature nylon as their bottom housing material. This classic choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to nylon's softer composition. As a material, nylon is adept at absorbing sound, thereby softening the auditory experience and yielding a more rounded sound. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall typing experience, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are engaged. Consequently, while the top housings contribute to the sharper sound during key release, the nylon bottoms balance this with a more thickened acoustic quality during activation.
In essence, the juxtaposition of polycarbonate and nylon in both switch models creates a distinctive sound profile that merges the sharper tonal characteristics of polycarbonate with the fuller sound profile of nylon. While the similarities in materials lead to closely aligned sound profiles, the interaction between the different housings—where the top enforces clarity and the bottom enriches depth—allows each switch to deliver a well-rounded typing experience. Users seeking a balance between sharpness and depth will find both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Grapefruit appealing, as each delivers unique qualities derived from their materials and design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, which makes it heavier and thus might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit presents a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, catering to users who favor longer typing sessions without excessive strain. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, while the Grapefruit has a defined bottom out force of 53 grams, indicative of its medium-light feel. Overall, if you seek a lighter switch, the KTT Grapefruit would be the more suitable choice, whereas those who enjoy a heftier feel may prefer the Gateron Everfree Cedar, provided they don't mind the unknown bottom out specification.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, a clear distinction emerges: the Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Grapefruit measures slightly more at 4.0 mm. This means that the KTT Grapefruit offers a longer travel distance, which can provide a more pronounced tactile experience for those who appreciate a deeper actuation. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Everfree Cedar caters to users who prefer quicker response times, making it a suitable option for gamers seeking enhanced performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with the shorter Everfree Cedar being ideal for those who favor responsiveness, while the longer Grapefruit may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel during typing.
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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch delivers a satisfying, poppy sound profile, which contributes to an engaging typing experience. This sound is characterized by a pleasant tone that strikes a balance between being noticeable without being overly loud, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch features a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, presenting a more mellow auditory experience that avoids the sharper sounds of higher-pitched switches. Its baritone character results in a deep, yet not bass-heavy tone that offers a distinct yet unobtrusive auditory presence. Ultimately, both switches cater to users looking for a balanced sound, although the Cedar's poppy tone may appeal to those seeking a more spirited typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar's characteristics remain less explicitly defined. However, the KTT Grapefruit switch shines with a polished feel that signifies a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is typically attributed to either quality materials or effective factory lubrication, leading to reduced friction and easier key travel. While the EF Cedar may deliver a reliable performance, the specific tactile feedback is less highlighted, indicating that both switches could provide a satisfying experience albeit with potentially varying nuances in tactile sensation.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and KTT Grapefruit linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile qualities, the Cedar stands out for its engaging, poppy sound, whereas the Grapefruit provides a low-pitched, neutral tone coupled with a polished feel. Users seeking a dynamic typing ambience may lean towards the Everfree Cedar, while those prioritizing a smooth and refined touch might gravitate towards the Grapefruit. Whichever switch you choose, you're likely to enjoy an excellent typing experience, tailored to your personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Grapefruit linear switches, your choice should hinge on your personal typing preferences and the sound profile you desire. If you value a smooth and reliable typing experience with a cost-effective option, the Everfree Cedar switches are likely the better choice; their poppy sound and smooth performance make them ideal for both gaming and typing without breaking the bank. However, if you prefer a light and airy feel with a deeper, more mellow sound, the KTT Grapefruit switches may suit you better. Their low-pitched tonal quality provides a unique auditory experience, while the polished feel ensures a smooth key press. Overall, if you prioritize a versatile switch for a variety of uses, the KTT Grapefruit's medium-light resistance and refined finish cater well to that demand, whereas the Everfree Cedar’s affordability and user-friendly characteristics are excellent for beginners or those who prefer straightforward functionality.
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