Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different types to suit their preferences and typing styles. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, known for its smooth and reliable performance, is a linear switch that delivers a consistent keypress without any tactile feedback. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who value a quiet work environment and prefer the fluidity of uninterrupted keystrokes, all while being a cost-effective option from Gateron's sub-brand. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a tactile experience that is both snappy and polished, boasting a higher-pitched sound profile alongside its satisfying tactile bump. This makes it ideal for users who enjoy sensory feedback while typing, providing both satisfaction and a delightful auditory experience. Both switches cater to distinct preferences—linear for those seeking smoothness and minimal sound, and tactile for users who thrive on feedback and a lively typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both showcase the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, which contributes to their sound profiles. The polycarbonate material is characterized by a stiffer composition, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound that is notably crisp and resonant. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them excellent choices for RGB lighting setups, as they allow light to pass through effectively, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. Thus, users can expect a similar auditory experience regarding the keypress engagement with both switches due to their identical choice of top housing material.
On the bottom end, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer and more absorbent nature. When typing on these switches, the nylon bottom housing contributes a rounder and duller sound which contrasts with the sharper tones of the polycarbonate top. This means that while both switches share similarities in terms of their top housing, they maintain a unique character due to the influence of their nylon bottom housings, offering a balanced auditory experience, particularly when bottoming out.
Overall, the combined housing materials of both switches create a rich listening experience that engages various sound qualities. While the polycarbonate top boasts crispness and clarity, the nylon bottom softens the impact for a fuller bottom-out sound. Users can expect a consistent performance across both switches, as both rely on the same fundamental materials leading to similar sound profiles. However, the distinctions between the top and bottom housing materials illustrate how each contributes to the overall typing experience, with the combination of sharper highs from the polycarbonate and deeper lows from the nylon resulting in a harmonious audio signature.
Weight
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, with the Everfree Cedar requiring a force of 55 grams compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's lighter 45 grams. This means that the Everfree Cedar is the heavier option, making it potentially more suitable for individuals who favor a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottoming out forces, the Akko switch has a measured bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable. Consequently, while both switches may offer distinct actuation forces, the lack of information regarding the Cedar’s bottom out force leaves some uncertainty. Those seeking a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might prefer the Lavender Purple Pro, whereas the Everfree Cedar may appeal more to users who enjoy a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, we find that the EF Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm places the Everfree Cedar as the shorter option and the Lavender Purple Pro as the longer one. For gamers who favor quicker responses, the shorter travel distance of the Everfree Cedar may be more appealing, providing a more immediate actuation. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress might opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, which offers a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation feel and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, distinct characteristics emerge. The Everfree Cedar offers a satisfying, poppy sound that exudes a smoothness associated with linear switches. This sound signature creates a quieter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer discreet keystrokes. In contrast, the Lavender Purple Pro presents a higher-pitched, more pronounced sound due to its tactile bump. This combination produces a delightful auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate that tactile engagement. It's worth noting that the sound output can be influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so an ideal audio experience may vary from user to user.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Everfree Cedar is smooth and straightforward, embodying the typical characteristics of linear switches without any tactile feedback. Users can expect a fluid typing experience without any bumps or interruptions, making it suitable for those who prefer a seamless touch. Conversely, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is rich in tactile qualities, described as accented and bouncy. This switch provides a medium tactile experience that balances responsiveness with comfort, ensuring that each keypress is met with a distinct but non-overwhelming tactility. The snappy nature of the Lavender Purple Pro contributes to a responsive and lively feel, while the polished finish results in reduced friction, reinforcing smooth key travel throughout the typing process.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro present unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Everfree Cedar excels in delivering a quiet, smooth typing experience ideal for minimal distractions, while the Lavender Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced sound profile and tactile feedback, appealing to those who appreciate an engaging typing experience. Whether you lean toward the smoothness of the Cedar or the tactile joy of the Lavender Purple Pro, each switch provides a distinct experience that can fulfill varying typing desires.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you're looking for a switch that offers a smooth and fluid typing experience without any tactile bumps, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice. Its poppy sound profile and reliable performance make it suitable for both casual typing and gaming where rapid key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a more dynamic typing feel complemented by a distinct tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be ideal. Its medium-light bottom-out force and pleasantly higher-pitched sound contribute to an engaging experience that many keyboard enthusiasts appreciate. The tactile feedback of the Lavender Purple switches can enhance your typing accuracy and satisfaction, making them a great option for extended writing sessions. Ultimately, analyzing your typing style, sound preferences, and the overall feel you desire will guide you in making the best selection for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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