Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Macchiato, both linear switches that promise an enjoyable typing experience. The Everfree Cedar stands out as a cost-effective choice, providing smooth and reliable performance thanks to Gateron's proprietary mold, and features a satisfying, poppy sound profile that adds character to every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, caters to enthusiasts seeking a silky smooth feel with a brighter sound profile, perfect for those who prioritize acoustics in their typing experience. Each switch offers unique benefits that cater to different preferences: the Cedar is ideal for budget-minded users who do not want to sacrifice quality, while the Macchiato appeals to those who desire an elevated, luxurious sensation while typing. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Macchiato, we see a distinct contrast in their top housing composition. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency. This material contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile when typing. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for a clear and resonant auditory experience, especially effective in setups where RGB lighting is employed, as the clear housing allows light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing, which, being softer and more absorbent, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamentally changes the auditory feedback one receives when typing, leaning towards a more muted and rounded sound.
Both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housings, where the similarity extends across their structures. In this case, both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Macchiato capitalize on nylon’s classic qualities, which tend to absorb sound and create a deeper auditory experience. Given that nylon is recognized for contributing a duller sound profile, users of either switch will enjoy a richer bottom-out sound that complements the typing experience. This shared material for the bottom housing means that both switches will likely offer similar tactile feedback and sound characteristics when the key is fully pressed down, reinforcing the feeling of a fuller typing sound as the key hits the base.
Overall, while both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Macchiato share nylon in their bottom housing, it is the distinction of the top housing material that dictates their unique sound profiles. Users will experience a sharper and more resonant sound with the polycarbonate top of the Everfree (EF) Cedar, while they will instead enjoy the warmer, subdued tones offered by the nylon top of the Macchiato. This contrast highlights how housing materials affect both sound and feel in switches, encapsulating a fundamental aspect of the typing experience: the interplay of stiffness and softness in the construction of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch to the HMX Macchiato linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Everfree Cedar boasts an actuation force of 55 grams, which makes it a heavier option compared to the Macchiato's 42 grams. This heavier actuation force can provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push feel. In contrast, the Macchiato is considered lighter, making it a better choice for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to activate. Notably, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is not provided, meaning we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. However, the Macchiato features a bottom out force of 50 grams, reinforcing its position as the lighter choice overall. Thus, if a softer touch is desired, the Macchiato is the preferable option, while those seeking a stronger feedback experience might lean towards the heavier Gateron switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key distinction in the design and intended usage of each switch. The shorter travel distance of the Everfree Cedar may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, allowing for faster actuation during gameplay. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, with its longer travel distance, could provide a more substantial typing experience, potentially favored by users who appreciate a deeper feel with their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding feedback and actuation, with the Cedar being the shorter option and the Macchiato offering a more pronounced travel experience.
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 Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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
The sound profile of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a satisfying, poppy quality that resonates well during typing, making it an enjoyable auditory experience for users. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato linear switch offers a bright sound profile, which can create a more lively atmosphere while typing. Both sound characteristics are influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, but you'll find that the Everfree switches provide a warmer tone compared to the higher-pitched brightness of the Macchiato.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is recognized for its smooth and reliable performance, giving users a consistent typing experience that many find quite satisfying. The HMX Macchiato, on the other hand, is designed specifically for a silky smooth typing experience, which emphasizes fluidity and ease of key travel. While both switches offer a pleasant tactile experience, the trading point lies in the emphasis—the Everfree's reliability versus the Macchiato's smooth elegance.
Overall, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Macchiato linear switches present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Everfree provides a warm, poppy sound and a dependable feel, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize consistent performance. In contrast, the Macchiato's bright sound and incredibly smooth action appeal to typists looking for a more luxurious typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal priorities, either favoring the reliability of the Everfree or the silky experience offered by the Macchiato.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Macchiato linear switches, your specific preferences and typing style should guide your choice. If you're looking for a cost-effective option that prioritizes smooth and reliable performance, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is an excellent choice. Its poppy sound profile adds an engaging auditory experience, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming sessions. However, if you're someone who values a silky smooth typing experience combined with a bright sound profile, the HMX Macchiato will likely serve you better. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams, it strikes a balance that can provide satisfying feedback without being overly taxing on your fingers, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your individual preferences in sound and feel will dictate which switch is the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard. Consider experimenting with both options, if possible, to discover which aligns best with your typing habits.
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