Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch highlight the diverse typing experiences available to users. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a great choice for those who prefer a seamless keystroke without interruption; its poppy sound profile enhances the experience while maintaining a cost-effective edge. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt switch offers a medium-heavy spring complemented by a prominent tactile bump, creating a more interactive typing experience that some users find particularly enjoyable. The Hutt’s balanced, resonant sound profile further elevates its appeal for those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback during typing, making it ideal for gamers and typists alike. Ultimately, the choice between a linear and a tactile switch largely depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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 single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Hutt both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to similar auditory characteristics in terms of sound profile. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing, largely because it amplifies sound resonance more effectively than softer materials. Both switches, owing to their clear polycarbonate tops, also benefit aesthetically from RGB lighting, allowing light to permeate beautifully through the transparent housing. Thus, users can anticipate a consistent sound quality between the two models, particularly with respect to the high-frequency clarity they provide during use.
In terms of bottom housing, both models feature nylon, a material known for inducing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon’s softer, more absorptive qualities create a rounder sound as it dampens vibrations, in stark contrast to the sharper tones emanating from polycarbonate. The combination of the two materials creates a complex sound experience: the top housing’s higher frequencies will interact with the nylon below to produce a well-rounded auditory result. Therefore, both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Hutt allow switches to display a blend of characteristics from their respective materials, ultimately resulting in a versatile typing experience that combines clarity and depth.
Since the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Hutt share the same housing materials both on top and bottom, users can expect a cohesive sensory outcome. The polycarbonate assuredly excels in producing a crisp upper sound profile, while the nylon provides that sought-after warmth and fullness below. When pressing down on either switch, the nylon bottom housing will dominate the tactile experience, delivering the signature plush feedback, while the key release will evoke the higher pitches of the polycarbonate top. This duality ensures that both switches will not only sound similar but will also grant users an engaging typing experience through their thoughtful material use.
Weight
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch present a notable contrast in their actuation forces, showcasing different user experiences catered to varying preferences. The Everfree Cedar has a higher actuation force of 55 grams in comparison to the Hutt's lighter 40 grams, which suggests that the Hutt will provide a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. However, the Everfree Cedar may appeal to those who enjoy a sturdier feel while typing, as its heavier actuation may offer a perceived sense of durability and responsiveness. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, the Hutt's bottom out force is 49 grams, indicating that it will register a solid tactile response when fully pressed down. If one were to prefer a lighter switch, the Hutt is the clear choice, while the Everfree Cedar is more suited for those who prefer a heavier actuation and the possibility of a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, we see a slight difference: the Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hutt features a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means the Cedar switch has a longer travel distance by 0.1 mm. For those who enjoy a more responsive feel in their keystrokes, such as gamers, the Hutt’s shorter travel distance might be preferable as it allows for quicker actuation. However, if a more substantial depth is desired for a tactile response, the Everfree Cedar could be the better choice. The small variance in travel distances means that while both switches offer relatively short actuation, the Everfree Cedar may provide a more pronounced experience for typists who appreciate a deeper keystroke.
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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 features a poppy sound profile that aims to enhance the overall typing experience. This satisfying auditory feedback adds a layer of enjoyment to every keystroke, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a vibrant sound when they type. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is characterized by a resonant sound profile that produces a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp auditory experience. This distinction can be quite noticeable, with the Hutt switch delivering a more immersive sound that can lead users to feel more engaged during their typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar excels with its snappy and polished characteristics. The snappy responsiveness derived from its design creates a lively typing experience, complemented by a smooth key travel that reduces friction, thanks to quality materials and potential factory lubing. Comparatively, the Bsun Hutt switch also touts a snappy feel but combines it with a prominent tactile bump that provides invigorating feedback. The tactile sensation is sharp and well-defined, making each keypress remarkably distinct. The Hutt switch strikes a balance with its medium tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle while introducing a bouncy quality that adds a spring-like rebound to every keystroke.
Considering both switches, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar offers a lively, polished feel and a satisfying sound, while the Bsun Hutt provides a more resonant auditory experience accompanied by pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches are designed to deliver enjoyable typing sensations, albeit in different ways. Selecting between them will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback—if you prioritize a smoother typing experience, the Everfree might be the better choice, whereas if a stronger tactile feel is what you're after, the Hutt could be ideal. Regardless, both switches will offer satisfying and engaging experiences for any newcomer to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize smoothness and a minimalistic sound profile, and you enjoy the snappy yet polished feel that the Everfree Cedar offers, this switch would be an excellent choice for fast-paced typing or gaming. Its smooth and snappy response ensures a streamlined experience, making it particularly appealing for those who prefer a clean and quiet environment without tactile distractions. On the other hand, if you appreciate pronounced feedback during your typing sessions and desire a more textured experience, the Hutt switch is the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force, coupled with a sharp tactile bump, creates an invigorating and engaging typing sensation that many find satisfying, especially for prolonged typing tasks. This switch's resonant sound profile adds to the auditory experience and can make each keypress feel more impactful. Ultimately, consider whether you lean towards the refined smoothness of linear switches with minimal noise or favor the tactile engagement and sound of tactile switches when making your selection.
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