Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can make a significant difference. On one hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, offering a cost-effective option with a satisfying, poppy sound profile. This linear switch is designed to provide a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, making it a great choice for those who prefer a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg, a product from a relatively new manufacturer, stands out with its impressive smoothness and a two-stage spring that contributes to a fulfilling feel. Although it shares the linear design with the Everfree Cedar, the Iceberg is recognized for its clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a different auditory experience during use. Each switch presents unique qualities that cater to various preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Aflion Iceberg switches feature notable similarities, particularly in their top housing, which is made of polycarbonate. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, a material renowned for its stiffness, translucency, and capacity to enhance the sound profile. The use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound, providing a crisp auditory experience that many users appreciate, especially in setups with RGB lighting. The aesthetic advantage of a clear housing also means that both switches can beautifully showcase any integrated lighting, creating a visually engaging experience. Therefore, users can expect similar acoustic qualities from both switches in terms of the sharper resonances produced when typing.
Contrasting the top housings, the bottom materials of both switches are composed of nylon, a classic choice in mechanical switch design that contributes to a different auditory characteristic. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This specific material choice allows both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Aflion Iceberg to create a more rounded and slightly muted auditory experience compared to the top housing. Although both switches exhibit the same advantageous nylon properties, the overall acoustics when typing will still be affected by the combination of both housings, as sound absorption occurs primarily in the bottom portion of the switches.
In conclusion, the similarity in top housing materials across both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Aflion Iceberg leads to a shared brightness in sound, while the nylon bottom housing introduces a contrasting, fuller auditory experience. This combination highlights the duality of sound dynamics in mechanical switches—where the top housing produces crisp sounds upon releasing a key and the bottom housing influences the overall bottom-out experience with its deeper tones. Users looking for a switch that combines the clarity of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon will find both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and Iceberg to be comparable options, delivering distinct yet harmonious results.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences among users. The Everfree Cedar features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, making it a sturdier choice for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Iceberg has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions, particularly for those who prefer less resistance. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Everfree Cedar is unknown, whereas the Iceberg has a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while the Everfree may provide a consistent actuation experience, users of the Iceberg can expect a lighter and more forgiving feel upon bottoming out. Overall, if one prefers a heavier switch for a more tactile experience, the Everfree Cedar would be the appropriate choice, while those leaning towards a lighter and more fluid feel should opt for the Iceberg.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Iceberg features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Iceberg offers more depth and potentially a fuller typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Everfree Cedar may cater to gamers and others seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you value speed and a more abrupt actuation or prefer a more robust feedback associated with deeper travel.
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 Aflion Iceberg has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iceberg for $3.07.
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 switches are noted for their satisfying, poppy sound profile, which contributes to an appealing acoustic experience while typing. This sound can complement the tactile feedback of the switch, providing users with auditory reinforcement that enhances their overall enjoyment. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg switches are characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound. The sharp, bright, and percussive noise produced by the Iceberg adds a different auditory element, making the typing experience feel more dynamic and lively. Ultimately, while both switches deliver distinct sound profiles, the choice will largely depend on personal preference for auditory feedback as well as the keyboard and keycaps used, which can significantly influence overall sound quality.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switches provide a smooth and reliable typing experience, focusing on the effortless glide of each keystroke. While specifics are not fully detailed, their design seems to favor consistent performance, making them comfortable for prolonged use. On the other hand, the Iceberg switches excel in responsiveness and comfort, featuring elements like a snappy actuation and a feathery touch, which makes them exceptionally light to press. The subtle resistance of the Iceberg switch adds a unique blend of responsiveness and ease, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and fast-paced typing. The significant distinction lies in the Iceberg's dual-stage spring design, which enhances the overall responsiveness and reduces finger fatigue during intensive typing or gaming sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Aflion Iceberg linear switches offer appealing features for those seeking linear switches in a mechanical keyboard. While the Everfree switches emphasize reliability and consistency in their acoustic profile and smooth feel, the Iceberg switches bring a lively, high-pitched sound and a more dynamic tactile experience with their innovative spring design. Depending on what qualities resonate more with an individual's preferences—whether that be the poppy sound and smooth action of the Everfree Cedar or the responsive and lightweight feel of the Iceberg—users will find satisfactory options in either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Aflion Iceberg linear switches, you should consider your personal preferences and typing or gaming style. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience with a satisfying sound profile and are looking for a cost-effective option, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice. Its responsiveness and reliable performance make it suitable for those who prefer a more understated auditory and tactile experience, perfect for shared workspaces or long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you favor a switch that offers a lively, snappy feel, coupled with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Iceberg linear switch would be the way to go. Its dual-stage spring design provides an engaging and fulfilling typing experience, making it ideal for gaming enthusiasts seeking quick actuation and satisfying feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth and subtle experience or a more dynamic and responsive feel, so consider what aspects are most important to you before making your final decision.
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