Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between options like the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Lucky can greatly enhance your typing experience. The Everfree Cedar stands out for its smooth and reliable performance, coupled with a satisfying poppy sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate let industry-leading manufacturing from Gateron. Its cost-effective nature adds to its allure, positioning it as a strong contender for budget-conscious typists seeking quality. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches feature soft, glittery nylon housings that provide a neutral, lightweight typing experience characterized by subtle satisfaction, perfect for users who prefer a touch of elegance and a softer feel. Both switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch category, appealing to a range of typists from gamers to writers. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your typing needs.
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
3.80 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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Lucky, notable differences arise in their top housings, which significantly influence the auditory experience. The Everfree (EF) Cedar utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that is characterized by a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its rigidity, resulting in a more resonant sound when a key is pressed and released. In contrast, the HMX Lucky features a nylon top housing, which is traditionally softer than polycarbonate. As a result, the nylon top produces a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more of the sound energy and yielding a mellower auditory experience. Therefore, users seeking a clear and energetic typing sound may gravitate towards the Everfree (EF) Cedar, while those desiring a more muted, rounded sound would likely prefer the HMX Lucky.
In examining the bottom housings, both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Lucky share the same material: nylon. This similarity leads to comparable auditory results in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is consistent across both switches. Given that the bottom housing plays a crucial role in how the switch sounds when pressed down, users of either switch will experience this signature softer, rounder sound associated with nylon. Consequently, regardless of the differences in top housing, the nylon bottom housing ensures a unified auditory experience in terms of the bottom-out feel.
Overall, while the top housings of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Lucky present contrasting sound characteristics, their shared nylon bottom housing fosters a deeper sound profile that enhances the typing experience. This duality in housing materials allows for distinct auditory results when keys are pressed, but a similar quality when they bottom out. Thus, users may find that they can achieve a satisfactory typing experience by choosing between the energetic clarity of the polycarbonate top and the softer, deeper tone provided by nylon, with the bottom's sound profile remaining consistent between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics. The Everfree Cedar features an actuation force of 55 grams, which is significantly heavier than the Lucky's actuation force of 37 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may find the Lucky to be more suitable. However, the Everfree's bottom out force is not specified, making it challenging to draw full comparisons in that aspect. In contrast, the Lucky switch has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which adds to its overall lighter feel. Consequently, if the Everfree were to have a bottom out force similar to its actuation force, it would likely be much heavier, reinforcing the Lucky switch as the lighter option overall. For those seeking a more substantial typing experience and are comfortable with a bit more resistance, the Gateron Everfree might be the better choice, while the Lucky is preferable for users looking for a less strenuous typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lucky linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights a distinction in the feel and responsiveness of the switches; the shorter travel of the Everfree Cedar may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation for faster response times, while the longer travel of the Lucky switch could be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes. Overall, the EF Cedar provides a more rapid engagement, while the HMX Lucky offers a more substantial feel, making the choice between the two a matter of personal preference.
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 HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 is characterized by a satisfying, poppy sound profile. This auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, creating a lively atmosphere when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch is notable for its softer sound, which is complemented by its glittery nylon housing. While the Everfree's sound is more pronounced, the Lucky offers a quieter, more subdued auditory experience. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound can vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, meaning that with the right setup, one might achieve a similar auditory feel with either switch.
When it comes to the feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch offers a smooth and reliable performance that many users find satisfying during long typing sessions. Its linear design ensures that there is no tactile bump or click, allowing for a seamless keypress from top to bottom. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch provides a lightweight and neutral typing experience, which many users may find deeply satisfying as well. While both switches focus on a linear feel, the difference lies in the lightness and overall responsiveness, which can affect personal preference and typing speed.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and HMX Lucky linear switches present unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Everfree showcases a lively and poppy sound, while the Lucky leans towards a softer auditory profile paired with a lightweight feel. Each switch promises a smooth typing experience; however, the choice ultimately depends on whether one prefers a more responsive and pronounced feel or a subtler, quieter typing environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Lucky linear switches should ultimately depend on your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you prioritize a cost-effective switch that provides smooth and reliable performance, alongside a satisfying sound profile, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent option. Its unique characteristics can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy a responsive feel without a defined bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lightweight switch that offers a neutral typing experience with a hint of softness, the HMX Lucky is your go-to choice featuring its glittery nylon housing that adds a playful aesthetic alongside functionality. Therefore, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's the poppy sound and smooth action of the Everfree Cedar or the lightweight, satisfying feel of the Lucky switches—before making your final decision.
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