Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Jupiter Red stand out as two notable linear options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar is renowned for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a cost-effective choice without compromising on the satisfying, poppy sound profile that many users appreciate. This switch utilizes Gateron's trusted mold design, ensuring quality and consistency. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red excels in providing an uninterrupted keystroke with its single-stage spring, offering a medium-heavy actuation that many find appealing for a seamless typing experience. Enhanced by high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red is perfect for those who favor a polished and creamy feel during use. Both switches have their unique advantages and cater to distinct user preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Red switches share a remarkable similarity in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate. This commonality leads to an identical sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper effect. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows it to resonate clearly, enhancing the auditory feedback when typing. Furthermore, the clear nature of the polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, making both switches visually appealing in illuminated setups. This uniformity in top housing material ensures that users who prioritize brightness and clarity in sound will find similar results when using either switch.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The softer characteristics of nylon contribute to a sound profile that is more muted compared to the sharper notes produced by polycarbonate. This difference in material design means that while users will experience a bright and clear sound during key releases from the polycarbonate top, they will also enjoy a rounder and deeper sound upon key presses due to the nylon's sound absorption capabilities. As a result, the feel and acoustic experience of the switches are enhanced by the distinctive contributions of their bottom housings.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and Jupiter Red means that while the switches may produce differing overall sound experiences, they contribute collectively to a unique typing experience. The clarity from polycarbonate counterbalances the warmth from nylon, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of both materials. Therefore, despite minor differences in feel and sound depth, anyone using either switch will experience a well-rounded auditory profile that is equally engaging, making them suitable choices for both gaming and typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force. The Everfree Cedar requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference means that the Jupiter Red will likely suit users looking for a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, making it a more comfortable option for those worried about finger fatigue. Conversely, the Everfree Cedar, with its heavier actuation force, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Regarding the bottom-out forces, specific data for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable; however, the Jupiter Red has a bottom-out force of 60 grams. As such, users seeking feedback and tactile response might prefer the Jupiter Red due to its defined bottom-out force. Overall, the Jupiter Red is the lighter switch, whereas the Everfree Cedar is heavier, appealing to different user preferences in the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a contrast in key feel and responsiveness between the two switches. The Cedar, with its shorter travel distance, may provide quicker response times, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster actuation. However, some users might find the Cedar's travel distance a bit abrupt. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red, with its traditional 4 mm travel distance, offers a deeper feel that many enthusiasts appreciate for a more substantial keystroke. Thus, those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience may gravitate toward the Jupiter Red, while gamers or users looking for immediate feedback might opt for the Everfree Cedar for its slightly shorter and more responsive action.
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 Red 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 switch produces a satisfying poppy sound profile that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing experience. This characteristic can make typing more enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate a bit more feedback from their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is noted for having a neutral sound profile, which strikes a balance that caters well to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. This moderate sound output makes the Jupiter Reds versatile, ensuring they blend seamlessly into various environments, whether at home or in an office.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is appreciated for its smooth and reliable performance, but specific descriptors regarding its tactile experience are not provided. In contrast, the Jupiter Red switch offers a notably polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. This combination suggests a switch that minimizes friction while maximizing comfort, allowing for effortless key travel and a smooth, buttery sensation during use. The luxurious feel of the Jupiter Reds ensures that typists will find pleasure in every keystroke, making them especially well-suited for extensive typing sessions.
In summary, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Jupiter Red switches offer distinct qualities that can appeal to different user preferences. The Everfree's engaging poppy sound might attract those looking for a more tactile auditory feedback, while the Jupiter Red's neutral sound and silky feel cater well to those seeking a smooth and consistent typing experience. Each switch’s unique attributes ensure that whether you choose the Cedar for its satisfying auditory feedback or the Jupiter Red for its luxurious typing feel, you can expect a high level of performance in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the context in which you will use them. If you seek a cost-effective switch that delivers reliable performance with a satisfying poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar might be your go-to option. It's particularly well-suited for casual typing or gaming, where you prioritize smoothness and an enjoyable auditory feedback without needing a specific actuation force weighing down your fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a more structured feel with a consistent, medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Red is an excellent choice. With its polished, creamy, and silky typing experience, this switch caters to those who desire a more refined feel, making it perfect for extended typing sessions at work or gaming marathons. Overall, consider how each switch aligns with your type of work or play; if you favor smoothness and subtle sound, go for the Everfree Cedar, while if you appreciate a bit of weight and refined feedback, the Jupiter Red is your best bet.
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