Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Keygeek Keylin offer compelling options for enthusiasts and casual users alike, particularly for those who prefer a linear feel. The Everfree Cedar, a product from Gateron's sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth, reliable performance and cost-effectiveness, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious users who still desire a satisfying typing experience with a unique poppy sound profile. On the other hand, the Keylin switches from Keygeek promise a premium typing experience, boasting rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, perfect for users seeking a more upscale feel and sound. While both switches cater to linear switch aficionados, they offer distinct benefits that can suit different preferences and priorities. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Keygeek Keylin present interesting contrasts, particularly in their top housings. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness. This property contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it particularly suitable for users who prefer a more clear and resonant audio feedback when typing. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate facilitates enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visual layer to its functionality. In contrast, the Keylin utilizes a nylon top housing that, while regarded as classic, tends to yield a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a more muted auditory experience that some users may find appealing for a quieter typing environment.
Both switches, however, share similarities in their bottom housing material, which for both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and Keylin is nylon. This consistency results in a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon’s inherent qualities. The softness of nylon allows for greater sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder profile that can be beneficial for the bottom-out experience while typing. The key takeaway is that users will feel the smoothness and sound between both models during the act of pressing down a key, as both bottom housings contribute to the tactile and auditory feedback that users seek when selecting a mechanical switch.
Ultimately, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar and Keygeek Keylin demonstrate a clear differentiation in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—both switches leverage nylon in their bottom housings to create a shared quality of sound and tactile feedback. This duality illustrates how the combination of different materials can lead to a nuanced typing experience. Users looking for sharper sounds may lean towards the Everfree, while those preferring a softer touch and quieter operation may gravitate towards the Keylin, showcasing how individual preferences in sound profiles can guide the selection of a mechanical switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar remains unknown. The Everfree Cedar requires an actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier and likely more suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Keylin switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, which could enable longer typing sessions due to its reduced effort requirement. The Keylin also features a bottom out force of 48 grams, reinforcing its position as the lighter option overall. Given that the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable, we cannot compare it directly; however, it can be inferred that the Cedar is designed for different user preferences, especially for those favoring a firmer key feel. Thus, users looking for a lighter, more effortless typing experience might prefer the Keygeek Keylin, while those who appreciate a heavier switch may opt for the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch share an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar depth of key press when using either switch. This equivalence in travel distance ensures that the tactile feedback and overall feel when typing or gaming are consistent across both switches, providing a uniform experience for users who prioritize linear switches. Thus, whether one chooses the Everfree or the Keylin, they can expect the same travel distance and resulting performance.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 offers a satisfying, poppy sound profile, which can add an enjoyable auditory layer to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is noted for its rich acoustics, suggesting a depth and fullness that could enhance the overall experience further. While both switches provide an engaging sound, the Everfree Cedar leans towards a more playful tone, while the Keylin likely provides a more premium auditory experience, making it appealing for those who appreciate nuanced sounds while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is renowned for its smooth and reliable performance, indicative of a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is designed to deliver exceptional smoothness, hinting at a refined tactile quality that could elevate typing comfort. Both switches are aimed at providing a seamless experience, but the Keylin may offer a slight edge in terms of luxury and comfort, making it suitable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Keygeek Keylin linear switches present appealing sound and feel characteristics. While the Everfree Cedar has a poppy sound and is known for its reliable performance, the Keylin excels with rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. Depending on your preferences, you may find that either switch caters to your needs, but the Keylin might be better suited for those seeking a more premium experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cedar or the Keylin, both switches promise to provide a delightful typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches, it’s important to consider your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities of each switch. If you prioritize a cost-effective option that provides a smooth and reliable performance, along with a satisfying poppy sound profile, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is the better choice for you. This switch is especially suitable for casual users or those new to mechanical keyboards who desire an enjoyable experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you seek a more premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, the Keygeek Keylin switch may be more aligned with your needs. This switch, with its slightly heavier bottom out force of 48 grams, is ideal for users who prefer a tactile feedback that enhances their typing rhythm and overall engagement. Thus, your decision should ultimately reflect not just the characteristics of these switches, but your own typing style and sound preferences, ensuring you select the best switch that complements your needs.
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