Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Kailh BCP are two standout linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth, reliable performance and cost-effectiveness, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a polished and snappy feel paired with a satisfying poppy sound. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP reimagines the classic Black Cherry Pie switches with a unique design that delivers a creamy, elastic, and bouncy typing experience, characterized by a clacky sound profile that adds a bit of fun to each keystroke. While both switches excel in creating a dynamic typing experience, their distinct sound and feel cater to different tastes, whether you prioritize smoothness or bounce in your typing rhythm. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar to the Kailh BCP switches, the most significant distinction lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This characteristic not only enhances the clarity of the sound produced when the key is released but also benefits from the material's translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting applications. In contrast, the Kailh BCP uses a nylon top housing, known for its classic role in switch design. The softness of nylon lends itself to a deeper, fuller sound, absorbing more sound than its harder counterpart, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both switches can be appreciated for their sound profiles, they offer quite different auditory signatures owing to the unique properties of their top housing materials.
When considering the bottom housing of the two switches, however, the comparison reveals a notable similarity. Both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Kailh BCP utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material contributes similarly to the typing experience, as the softer nature of nylon results in a deeper and more resonant sound profile for both switches when bottoming out. Since the bottom housing plays a critical role in shaping the overall sound and feel of a switch during actuation, users can expect a degree of consistency in that aspect regardless of the differences in the top housing. Hence, while the top housing materials produce distinct auditory characteristics, the nylon bottoms provide a common ground that can create a sense of harmony between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of the top and bottom housing materials in both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Kailh BCP ultimately determines the overall sound experience. The stiffer polycarbonate in the Cedar’s top housing produces a brighter sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom offers a grounded and rich bottoming out feel. Meanwhile, the BCP's nylon top housing diminishes high frequencies, resulting in a muted sound profile that feels fuller during typing. These contrasting qualities highlight the importance of housing materials in keyboard switches, as they influence not just the auditory output but also the tactile experience of use. Whether one prefers the clarity of polycarbonate or the warmth of nylon, understanding these differences can help users choose switches that align with their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The EF Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the BCP is slightly lighter at 52 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the BCP, as it requires less force to actuate. However, the EF Cedar does not have a specified bottom out force, whereas the BCP has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which indicates a medium-heavy resistance when pressing the key all the way down. This substantial bottom out force of the BCP delivers a more solid typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a firmer feedback under their fingers. Overall, the Kailh BCP is the heavier switch in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, positioning it as a better choice for typists seeking a more substantial feel, while the Gateron Everfree offers a lighter actuation force but lacks information on its bottom out resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, the Everfree measures 3.6 mm, while the BCP has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the BCP switch offers a marginally quicker response time, appealing to gamers and users who prefer rapid key presses. Conversely, the Everfree's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience while typing. Both switches are close in distance, making them suitable for users who prefer a balanced feel between depth and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between them may come down to individual preference for either slightly more travel or a quicker engagement.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 known for their engaging and satisfying poppy sound profile. This quality can enhance the typing experience, providing a rewarding auditory feedback as each key is pressed. The Kailh BCP switches, on the other hand, produce a sharp and snappy clacky sound. This crisp, bright, and percussive noise adds an energetic character to each keystroke. While both switches can create enjoyable soundscapes during typing, the Everfree switches lean more towards a smooth pop, while the BCPs deliver a pronounced clack, each catering to different preferences depending on the user’s tastes and the overall setup including the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switches are characterized by their snappy responsiveness and polished finish. This combination makes for a typing experience that feels alive and fluid, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Kailh BCP switches are renowned for their bouncy, elastic feedback, as well as a creamy and buttery sensation during use. The bounce provides a lively interaction with each keystroke, while the creamy texture contributes to a smoother motion. Users may feel a distinct difference when typing on the two, as the Everfree allows for a snappy and refined experience, whereas the BCP offers an elastic and silky typing sensation.
In summary, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Kailh BCP linear switches present unique qualities that appeal to different typing preferences. The Everfree switch provides a smooth and polished feel alongside a satisfying poppy sound, while the BCPs offer a lively bouncy response with a crisp clacky auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more refined and responsive feel or a lively, creamy typing experience combined with a pronounced sound profile. Both switches have their own merits, ensuring that newcomers to the mechanical keyboard community can find something that resonates with their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Kailh BCP linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and responsive experience, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is the ideal option with its polished and snappy feel. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter touch and a more cost-effective solution, making it great for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a medium-heavy feel and a unique tactile experience, the Kailh BCP is your go-to. Its bouncy, creamy texture paired with a clacky sound profile provides a satisfying sensory feedback that caters well to both enthusiasts and those who appreciate a lively soundscape while typing or gaming. In summary, choose the Everfree (EF) Cedar for smoothness and responsiveness, and opt for the Kailh BCP for a robust, tactile experience with heightened auditory feedback.
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