Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Durock Koala present two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists who seek a seamless tactile experience with a satisfying, poppy sound profile. Its cost-effective nature and polished feel make it appealing for those who prioritize consistency during high-speed typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock Koala offers a tactile experience that strikes a balance between a pronounced bump and a smooth keystroke, providing just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. Known for its stepped tactility and muted resonance, this switch is perfect for users who enjoy a responsive typing experience but prefer a more controlled sound profile. While both switches have their merits, the selection ultimately depends on whether you value the fluidity of a linear switch or the enhanced feedback of a tactile one. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Durock Koala switches, an immediate parallel emerges in the materials used for their top housings. Both switches are constructed with polycarbonate, a plastic known for its rigidity and clarity in sound production. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, allowing for a more resonant auditory experience when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches, making them ideal for setups that utilize RGB lighting, as the light can shine through and illuminate the switch beautifully. This common choice in top housing material suggests that users can expect a similar, crisp auditory experience from both switches when pressed.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Everfree Cedar and Koala are both made from nylon, a traditional choice for switch bottoms. Nylon is characterized by its softer nature, which leads to a fuller and deeper sound profile compared to harder plastics. This property allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience when typing. Thus, while the top housings of both switches create clear and bright sounds, the bottom housings contribute a more muted and rich sound, balancing the overall auditory experience. In this respect, both switches maintain a uniformity in their construction, establishing a foundation for consistent performance traits that enthusiasts often seek.
The combined effect of these materials illustrates how each housing contributes uniquely to the overall sound profile of the switches. With polycarbonate top housings enhancing clear sounds and nylon bottom housings providing a fuller auditory experience, users can expect a cohesive typing feel. The blend of these materials ensures that, despite being different models, both the Everfree Cedar and Koala switches offer a satisfying combination of sharpness and richness in their sound profiles. Consequently, when using either switch, typists will likely find that the tonal qualities they experience during typing are harmoniously balanced, leading to similar results in terms of both sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Everfree Cedar has a specified actuation force of 55 grams, while the Koala's actuation force is unknown. However, the Koala does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy. Since the bottom out force of the Everfree Cedar is unknown, it limits direct comparison regarding how both switches feel when fully pressed down. In this scenario, the Everfree Cedar can be considered the lighter switch due to its defined actuation force of 55 grams, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Koala's bottom out force indicates a heavier resistance, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel when typing. Thus, if you seek a lighter typing experience, the Everfree Cedar would be the preferable option, while the Koala would cater to users looking for a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, notable differences arise. The Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Koala features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This suggests that the Koala switch offers a more pronounced feel when pressed, appealing to users who prefer a deeper response with each keystroke. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Everfree Cedar provides a snappier and potentially more responsive action, which may be particularly beneficial for gamers looking for quicker key presses. Ultimately, those who favor a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Durock Koala, whereas gamers or users who appreciate quick response times might prefer the Gateron Everfree Cedar.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 offers a satisfying, poppy sound profile, making it a pleasant auditory experience for those who enjoy a bit of feedback with their keystrokes. This switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow sound that can be soothing for typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock Koala switch possesses a more neutral sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a moderate auditory experience. Its resonance adds character without overwhelming the user with excessive noise. Overall, while the sound from the Everfree Cedar may be more pronounced and engaging, the Koala offers a balanced experience suitable for various environments.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch delivers a snappy and polished typing experience. Its design includes longer or dual-staged springs, resulting in a responsive feel that elevates the typing experience by making each keystroke lively and engaging. Users can expect a smooth key travel, thanks to the refined finish. The Durock Koala switch, on the other hand, is also polished, providing a similarly smooth typing experience with reduced friction. It stands out with its stepped tactility, which offers a prominent bump that is neither overly strong nor subtle, making it a perfect option for users seeking a balanced tactile experience. Overall, both switches excel in smoothness, but the Koala introduces a unique tactility that differentiates it from the Everfree Cedar.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch present their unique strengths, making them appealing to different preferences. The Everfree Cedar stands out with its smoother, snappy responsiveness and satisfying poppy sound profile, while the Koala offers a balanced experience with a more neutral sound and a distinct tactile response. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a polished and enjoyable typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on whether one prefers the engaging dynamics of a linear switch or the nuanced tactile feedback of a stepped tactile switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch should reflect your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you’re inclined towards smooth and buttery key presses with a snappy response and plan to use your keyboard primarily for typing or gaming, the Everfree Cedar is likely the better fit for you. Its polished feel, combined with a cost-effective price point, makes it an excellent option for a seamless typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile bump to help you register key presses more distinctly and prefer a balanced actuation force that feels satisfying without being overwhelming, the Koala would be your go-to switch. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and accented, stepped tactile feedback can enhance your overall typing experience, making it suitable for both work and leisure without being overly loud. Therefore, consider your typing style, sound tolerance, and the context in which you will be using your keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.
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