Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Jupiter Banana each offer unique experiences catering to different typing preferences. The Everfree Cedar, known for its smooth and reliable performance, provides a linear feel that is ideal for those who favor a seamless keypress without the interruption of tactile bumps. This makes it a great choice for gamers and typists seeking quick, uninterrupted action, all while enjoying a pleasing, poppy sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana stands out as a tactile switch that offers a distinct feel with its enhanced two-stage springs, ensuring a satisfying back-and-forth motion during typing. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate audible feedback and the “bump” sensation, seeking a more engaging and dynamic typing experience. Both switches have their appeal, with the Everfree Cedar emphasizing speed and smoothness, and the Jupiter Banana highlighting tactile feedback and consistency. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches showcase a striking similarity in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice in material fosters a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks in part to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the auditory feedback produced during typing. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making both switches visually appealing when lit. As both switches employ identical top housing materials, users can expect a consistent auditory experience with pronounced highs, ensuring that sound characteristics remain largely unchanged between the two models.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Jupiter Banana share another similarity, as both utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile, which is a direct result of its softer composition. Nylon effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a warmer and rounder auditory feedback compared to harder materials. This consistent use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switch designs provide a satisfying typing experience characterized by a pleasant resonance and sound cushion that will please users who appreciate a slightly muted yet rich sound.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing leads to complementary sound profiles for both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches. While the top housing contributes to the clarity and high-pitched auditory feedback when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing deepens the overall sound profile, particularly during the key bottom-out phase. This division of acoustic qualities results in a nuanced yet harmonious typing sound that remains consistent across both models, making them ideal choices for users seeking a refined auditory experience while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we observe a difference in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is currently unknown. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it the lighter of the two switches, which can be advantageous for users who prefer to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana requires a slightly stronger push with an actuation force of 59 grams, indicative of a heavier feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the Jupiter Banana has a defined bottom out force of 69 grams, suggesting that users will experience more resistance as they press the key all the way down. Overall, while the Everfree Cedar offers a lighter typing experience, the Jupiter Banana presents a medium-heavy feel that may satisfy those seeking a firmer response.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Everfree Cedar provides a bit more depth when pressed, which can enhance the tactile feedback and overall typing experience for those who prefer a fuller press. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana’s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or users who favor quick response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the Jupiter Banana would be the better choice, while the Everfree Cedar would be ideal for those who enjoy a more substantial key press.
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 Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch delivers a satisfying, poppy sound profile that leans towards a mellow but engaging auditory experience. It’s well-suited for users who prefer a relatively quieter typing environment, as linear switches are known for their smooth activation without any audible click. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stands out with its high-pitched and resonant sound. This switch produces a sharp and crisp auditory response when pressed, creating an immersive typing experience. Those who favor a more vibrant acoustic feedback would likely appreciate the Jupiter Banana's clean and distinct sound, while users of the Everfree Cedar might enjoy its more subdued nature.
When assessing feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar boasts a smooth and consistent experience, characteristic of linear switches, which typically allow for fluid key presses without the tactile bump. This results in a seamless typing experience, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions or gaming where quick, uninterrupted keystrokes are beneficial. Conversely, the Jupiter Banana is praised for its polished and creamy feel, providing a smooth and luxurious typing experience. The tactile feedback of the Banana switches adds an engaging layer, which can be particularly satisfying for those who appreciate the sensation of a tactile bump during keystrokes.
Overall, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Everfree Cedar focuses on providing a smooth and balanced experience with a softer sound profile, while the Jupiter Banana offers a more pronounced tactile sensation and lively acoustic feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will hinge on whether you value a linear and subdued typing experience or seek the engagement and sparkle of a tactile switch with a high-pitched auditory signature.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a smooth and reliable experience, especially for tasks that require high-speed typing or gaming, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice due to its linear nature and consistent key feel. It provides a satisfying sound profile that leans towards a more subtle auditory experience, making it ideal for those who prefer minimal distraction while working or gaming. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and a vibrant sound when typing, the Jupiter Banana will likely appeal to you. Its medium-heavy actuation force offers a deliberate and stimulating typing experience, complemented by a high-pitched, resonant sound that may enhance your overall interaction with your keyboard. The creamy, polished feel of the Banana switch can also add a layer of enjoyment to your typing, particularly for leisure writing or casual gaming sessions. In this way, your personal preferences—whether you favor the smoothness of linear switches or the tactile delight of a pronounced actuation—will guide your decision in selecting the switch that best fits your mechanical keyboard needs.
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