Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between Gateron's Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches presents distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Everfree Cedar, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and consistent keystroke, making it an excellent option for those who crave uninterrupted performance, whether in gaming or typing. Additionally, its cost-effective nature suggests an appealing value for budget-minded enthusiasts. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, providing a more dynamic typing experience that highlights feedback with every press. This added tactile sensation can enhance typing accuracy for users who enjoy a more engaged interaction with their keyboard. Both switches boast Gateron's commitment to quality craftsmanship, including high-precision molds and appealing sound profiles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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 the Gateron Jupiter Brown both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a remarkably similar sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Given the translucency of the material, both switches also benefit aesthetically from enhanced RGB lighting effects, as the light can pass through freely. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sound profile when comparing the two switches due to the shared top housing material and its properties, which emphasize clarity and brightness in keypress sounds.
In contrast to their identical top housings, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, which significantly influences the auditory characteristics of each switch. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which absorbs sound better than harder materials. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, enriching the overall typing experience when a key is pressed down. Although they share the same bottom housing material, the merit of nylon creates a rounder sound that complements the sharper notes provided by the polycarbonate tops. As a result, while the top and bottom housings possess different sound characteristics, their combination allows for a well-rounded auditory experience.
Ultimately, the synergy of materials in both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron Jupiter Brown means that while one switch may have a crisper peak sound during the release (due to polycarbonate), it will also maintain depth and fullness from the nylon housing when pressed down. While users might find variations in feel or slight differences in sound nuances based on designs or actuation points, the core auditory properties remain harmoniously balanced due to the strategic use of both nylon and polycarbonate in their respective housings, resulting in a cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 55 grams, which means they require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. This similarity allows typists to experience a consistent feel when pressing the key down to the actuation point, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where rapid keystrokes are essential. However, the bottom out force differs significantly between the two switches. The Jupiter Brown has a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a heavier feel when fully pressed down, while the bottom out force for the Everfree (EF) Cedar is unknown. This may suggest that the Cedar switch could potentially be lighter or might not have as pronounced a bottoming out experience, appealing to users seeking a softer feel. Overall, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Jupiter Brown due to its higher bottom out force, while users who enjoy a lighter touch might find the Everfree Cedar more preferable, assuming its bottom out force aligns with their desires.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch present a notable difference in travel distance. The Everfree switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Jupiter Brown switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and offers a deeper press. This distinction is essential for users to consider based on their preferences: those who enjoy a more responsive feel and quicker actuation might gravitate towards the Everfree Cedar's shorter travel, whereas users who appreciate a more robust and satisfying typing experience may prefer the Jupiter Brown's longer travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on individual preferences for response versus depth in keypress.
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 Brown 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
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is characterized by a satisfying, poppy sound profile that enhances the typing experience without being overly disruptive. This auditory signature is part of what makes it attractive to users seeking a smooth, unobtrusive sound while they type. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a more traditional sound profile, which can be defined as quieter and more muted compared to the Cedar linear switch. This subtlety is particularly beneficial in quiet office environments or shared spaces, where the sound level is a consideration, making both switches suitable options, albeit for users with different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar excels in providing a smooth and reliable typing experience that allows for fluid keystrokes. Users can expect a consistent and effortless action without any tactile feedback along the way, appealing to those who favor a linear switch for speed and fluidity. The Jupiter Brown, on the other hand, presents a blended approach with its mild tactile feedback, offering a gentle typing experience. This switch is polished, which contributes to a smooth keystroke, while its stepped design allows for a more pronounced engagement point without being abrupt, making it ideal for users who appreciate a tactile indication without excessive resistance.
In conclusion, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches both provide distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Cedar's poppy sound and smooth actuation cater to enthusiasts looking for speed and unobtrusive noise. Meanwhile, the Jupiter Brown offers a mild tactile feel and softer sound, making it suitable for those who prioritize a classic typing experience with gentle feedback. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying outcomes, whether you lean towards the linear fluidity of the Everfree Cedar or the tactile engagement presented by the Jupiter Brown.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you're looking for an incredibly smooth and satisfying experience, particularly for typing and gaming, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice. Its linear design allows for uninterrupted key presses without tactile bumps, offering a seamless feel that can enhance your performance, especially for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional typing experience that provides subtle feedback, the Jupiter Brown is the way to go. Its medium-heavy actuation weight gives you a grounded feel, while the mild tactile response and polished finish ensure comfort without being overly abrasive. This makes it ideal for both typing and programming tasks where you want to feel each keystroke without the noise or disruption of clicky switches. Therefore, consider whether you value smoothness over tactile feedback, and let that guide your choice!
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