Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Light Sakura 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 Bsun Light Sakura both present compelling options, each tailored to different user preferences. The Everfree Cedar, a linear switch from Gateron's economical sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, accompanied by a satisfying poppy sound that can enhance the tactile experience for gamers and typists alike. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura also offers a linear feel but emphasizes discretion and comfort; designed as a silent switch, it boasts an ultra-light action that makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions and a quiet work environment. While the Everfree Cedar might appeal to those who enjoy a more audible feedback during use, the Light Sakura caters to users prioritizing a stealthy, fatigue-reducing 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Bsun Light Sakura switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which evidences similarities in their sound profiles and aesthetic characteristics. The polycarbonate material in both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the keys are typed upon. This is largely due to its stiffer nature, which fosters a more resonant sound experience. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting, ensuring that both switches provide an engaging auditory and visual experience that is well-suited for customizable keyboard setups.
In contrast, the bottom housings reveal a significant divergence between the two models. The Everfree (EF) Cedar opts for a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer material that cultivates a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's ability to absorb sound means that it yields a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Light Sakura switch. With more pronounced absorption properties, the nylon bottom on the Cedar emphasizes the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a unique tactile experience. This divergence in material choices impacts the overall auditory feedback and tactile sensation derived from each switch when pressed.
When combining the distinct characteristics of their bottom and top housings, each switch delivers a unique typing experience. The Everfree (EF) Cedar benefits from its nylon bottom housing, producing a more rounded sound when bottomed out, contrasted with the Light Sakura's crisp, high-pitched overall sound profile driven by its polycarbonate bottom housing. The differences in material attributes imply that typing on the Alameda Everfree will be a more subdued experience, whereas the Bsun Light Sakura will present a sharper auditory feedback. Despite these distinctions, both switches can still yield comparable results through their polycarbonate top housings, aligning their sound profiles in terms of clarity and brightness when releasing the keys. This means that while each switch offers a unique combination of sound profiles due to their differing bottom housings, the typing experience can still be enhanced through the shared attributes of their polycarbonate tops.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force stand out. The Everfree Cedar has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, making it a heavier option that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Light Sakura is significantly lighter with an actuation force of only 37 grams, catering to users who enjoy a softer touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. While the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable, the Light Sakura's bottom out force is recorded at 43 grams, further emphasizing its lighter overall feel. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that offers a more tactile push, the Everfree Cedar may suit your needs, whereas the Light Sakura is ideal for those who favor lighter, easier keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when pressed down, they will provide a similar tactile feedback as they move from the top to the bottom. This equivalence in travel distance ensures that users can expect a comparable experience in key feel and keystroke depth with both switches. Therefore, if you choose either switch, you'll enjoy the same level of travel distance during your typing or gaming sessions.
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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch offers a distinct sound profile characterized by a satisfying, poppy quality, making it appealing to those who appreciate audio feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is a silent switch, designed explicitly for quiet operation, making it suitable for environments where noise reduction is paramount. Both switches will produce sound, but the Everfree Cedar provides a more audible typing experience, while the Light Sakura remains discreet and unobtrusive. Thus, if you prioritize sound, the Everfree Cedar would be your go-to, while the Light Sakura excels in silent settings.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar delivers smooth and reliable performance, enhancing the typing experience with a responsive action that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura boasts an ultra-light feel, designed to reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. This switch allows for effortless keystrokes, making it a great choice for users who prioritize comfort and extended use. While both switches are linear, the Everfree Cedar may impart a slightly more engaging tactile experience, whereas the Light Sakura feels feather-light and gentle under the fingers.
In summary, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Bsun Light Sakura linear switches cater to different user preferences, with the former focusing on a more pronounced sound and engaging feel, while the latter emphasizes silence and comfort for prolonged typing. Your choice between these switches will largely depend on whether you value auditory feedback or quiet operation. Both will deliver smooth linear action, but their distinct sound and tactile experiences will guide your selection based on your specific needs and typing environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches and Bsun Light Sakura linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing environment and personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth, satisfying experience and enjoy a poppy sound profile that provides a tactile feedback while typing, the Everfree Cedar switches are a fantastic option. This switch is ideal for users who like a little auditory feedback and don’t mind the potential for noise, making it great for home or personal setups where sound isn’t a concern. On the other hand, if you are seeking a quieter typing experience that reduces fatigue and is suitable for office use or shared spaces, the Bsun Light Sakura is the better choice. Their ultra-light feel and silent operation make them perfect for long typing sessions where comfort and discretion are paramount. Therefore, consider your specific needs—whether it's an engaging auditory experience or a gentle, silent touch—to decide which switch will best enhance your typing journey.
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