Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can often seem overwhelming, especially with options like the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Ink Yellow, both popular linear switches. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, providing a satisfying tactility combined with a poppy sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective yet enjoyable typing experience. Conversely, the Ink Yellow switch is characterized by a shorter travel distance, offering a typing experience that bridges the gap between a laptop and a traditional mechanical keyboard, with a pleasant smoothness and a distinct clacky sound. While both switches cater to different preferences—whether it's the cost-effective reliability of the Everfree Cedar or the polished tactile feedback of the Ink Yellow—it’s essential to consider what you value most in your typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Ink Yellow differ significantly in their housing materials, which directly influences their sound profiles. The Everfree features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which results in a sharper and crisper sound. This clarity is particularly beneficial when using RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively, enhancing the visual experience of the switch. In contrast, the Ink Yellow utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which, while also producing a pointed and high-pitched sound, lacks the same level of clarity and resonance attributable to polycarbonate. Instead, it is characterized as being satisfying and clacky without becoming overly sharp, making it more approachable for those sensitive to high-pitched sounds.
Looking at the bottom housings, the differences continue to play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The Everfree's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties. This leads to a rounder, less pronounced bottom-out sound, offering a comfortable tactile experience. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow’s proprietary INK blend bottom housing continues the theme of high-pitched characteristics, providing a consistent clacky sensation throughout the switch’s travel. Although both switches feature high-pitched sound profiles, the juxtaposition of the Everfree's absorbing nylon against the Ink Yellow's INK blend creates unique auditory experiences when pressed.
Ultimately, while both the Gateron Everfree Cedar and Ink Yellow switches utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they can yield similar results in terms of high-pitched sound profiles. The Everfree’s polycarbonate top enhances clarity and brightness, while its nylon bottom introduces a more rounded character. Conversely, the Ink Yellow maintains a consistent clacky sound with its INK blend housings, both top and bottom. Therefore, users seeking high-pitched auditory feedback will appreciate either switch, though their tactile responses and overall sound quality will vary due to the specific materials used, proving that the subtleties in housing composition can significantly alter the feel and sound of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, we find that the Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it lighter than the Ink Yellow, which has a higher actuation force of 60 grams. This lighter force of the Everfree Cedar may appeal to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for long hours at work or during extended gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, while the Ink Yellow features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This suggests that while the Everfree Cedar may feel easier to actuate, the Ink Yellow provides a more substantial feel when bottoming out, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Therefore, the Ink Yellow is overall heavier in both actuation and bottom out criteria, whereas the Everfree Cedar offers a lighter actuation but lacks known metrics on its bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is evident that both options cater to different preferences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the Ink Yellow, which measures at 3.5 mm. This means that if you prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the Everfree (EF) Cedar may be the better choice for you. Conversely, the Ink Yellow can provide a quicker response time due to its slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who favor rapid key presses. Ultimately, while the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can influence your overall typing or gaming experience based on your preference for response or depth.
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 Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 is known for delivering a satisfying, poppy sound profile. This characteristic can add a pleasant auditory experience to typing, making it a good choice for users who enjoy feedback through sound without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is both crisp and bright. While the Ink Yellow offers a more pronounced acoustic signature, its neutral profile also makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether at home or at work. Overall, while both switches provide auditory feedback, the Everfree Cedar leans toward a smoother sound, whereas the Ink Yellow is characterized by its more vibrant clackiness.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch promises a smooth and reliable typing experience, though specific descriptors for its tactile qualities are absent. It can be inferred that the general smoothness will appeal to users looking for a consistent linear feel. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch offers a mild experience that strikes a balance between gentleness and responsiveness—ideal for those new to mechanical keyboards or users who prefer a less aggressive tactile feedback. Additionally, the Ink Yellow's polished nature contributes to a refined and sleek typing experience, reducing friction for smooth key travel. This suggests that while the Everfree Cedar offers a smooth operation, the Ink Yellow is tuned for a more nuanced and delightful touch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Ink Yellow linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Everfree Cedar presents a smoother, poppy sound profile, making it suitable for those who enjoy a softer auditory experience, while the Ink Yellow stands out with its clacker sound and versatile, mild tactile feedback. If you opt for the Everfree, you can expect a reliable and satisfying experience, whereas the Ink Yellow offers a polished feel with noticeable acoustic dynamics. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize subtle sound and feel or a more pronounced auditory engagement.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switches, your choice should depend largely on your individual typing style and preferences. If you value a smooth, reliable performance and are looking for a cost-effective option, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice, especially if you prefer a more muted sound profile that balances well for both work and casual use. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly more tactile and responsive typing experience with a discernible clackiness, the Ink Yellow would likely suit you better. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and clacky sound make it ideal for users who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback and want a switch that feels both polished and engaging while typing. In summary, choose the Everfree Cedar for smoothness and quiet reliability, and opt for the Ink Yellow if you're after an energetic typing experience that is reminiscent of both laptop and traditional mechanical keyboards.
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