Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Magnetic Jade each present unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Everfree Cedar is praised for its smooth, linear action and dependable performance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet satisfying typing experience. Its poppy sound profile adds a layer of auditory enjoyment without being overly distracting. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switches take a more advanced approach with their hall effect technology, providing a bright and clacky sound that can elevate the acoustics of your keyboard, particularly if you’re looking to upgrade a Wooting Hall Effect setup. These switches are ideal for users desiring a superior tactile experience and optimal sound quality. While both switches have their merits, your ultimate choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth linear feel or an engaging, clacky auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Gateron Magnetic Jade both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a shared acoustic characteristic that is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, stemming from polycarbonate's stiffer nature. This rigidity enhances sound clarity and resonance, making the switches pop with brightness when struck. Furthermore, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects, as light can pass through the housing to create brilliant illumination. Thus, users of either switch can expect similar auditory experiences when it comes to the tactile feedback and sound profile generated by the top housing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches diverge in how they impact the overall sound experience. Both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Magnetic Jade utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which brings a different dimension to the sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate tops. This combination facilitates a sound profile that balances the crispness of the top housing with the duller, rounder qualities of the bottom. Consequently, while the top housing gives a noticeable clarity to keystrokes, the bottom housing plays a key role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel, enriching the overall typing experience.
When considering the cumulative impact of these materials, users of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Magnetic Jade can expect a cohesive auditory experience despite their material contrasts. The synergetic relationship between the stiffer polycarbonate top and the softer nylon bottom leads to a layered sound profile where each housing contributes its unique characteristics. While the top housing enhances brightness and clarity, the bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. This dual-material approach allows users to enjoy the combined benefits of both sound qualities, resulting in a dynamic and enriched typing atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of preferences in keyboard use.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch to the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Magnetic Jade is significantly lighter at 30 grams. This difference suggests that the Everfree Cedar may provide a more substantial typing experience, favored by those who prefer a heavier push feel, whereas the Magnetic Jade's lower actuation force might be more comfortable for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for users seeking a lighter touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade has a definitive bottom out force of 55 grams, which aligns with its actuation force, whereas the bottom out force of the Everfree Cedar is unknown. This uncertainty makes it difficult to directly compare bottoming out characteristics. However, if the bottom out force of the Everfree Cedar were to match or be close to the 55 grams of the Magnetic Jade, users could expect similar results in terms of how the switches feel when fully depressed. Overall, the Everfree Cedar is the heavier switch, while the Magnetic Jade is the lighter option, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Magnetic Jade boasts a slightly shorter distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Everfree Cedar the longer option, offering a deeper feel for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as it allows for quick actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference: those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience might opt for the Magnetic Jade, whereas those favoring a more hearty depth in their key presses may lean towards the 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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch produces a satisfying, poppy sound profile that is both pleasant and unobtrusive, making it a great choice for those seeking smooth acoustics without being overly distracting in quiet environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound that adds a layer of auditory feedback that many typists find engaging. This distinction suggests that while both switches can provide a pleasant auditory experience, the Everfree Cedar leans towards a more subdued sound, whereas the Magnetic Jade caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced sonic experience during typing.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch delivers a smooth and reliable performance, offering a linear experience that is ideal for users who prefer a consistent keystroke without tactile bumps. This makes it particularly appealing for gamers and typists alike, as it allows for rapid key presses without any interruption. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade switch enriches the typing experience with its hall effect technology, likely offering a unique cushion or soft landing feel that can elevate the overall typing satisfaction. The tactile difference here caters to distinct preferences, one leaning towards a streamlined, uninterrupted motion and the other providing a more dynamic feel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Magnetic Jade switches offer their own unique qualities that appeal to different users. While the Everfree Cedar is favored for its cost-effective, smooth, and poppy auditory experience along with a linear feel, the Magnetic Jade captivates with its bright, clacky sound and intriguing tactile feedback. Depending on your needs, both switches can easily provide a rewarding typing experience; however, your choice may ultimately hinge on whether you prefer a more subdued sound with a smooth keystroke or a vibrant auditory response coupled with a potentially unique feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches and Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches ultimately depends on the specific typing experience and sound profile you desire. If you're seeking a smooth and reliable performance that’s budget-friendly, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice. Its light actuation makes it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke while maintaining a satisfying tactile experience, perfect for general typing and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you want a more premium feel and sound, the Magnetic Jade switches are a superior option. Their medium-light bottom-out force provides a satisfying actuation, coupled with a bright and clacky auditory feedback that can enhance your gaming sessions or typing experiences, especially if you're using a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize gentle, cost-effective linear satisfaction or a more advanced, acoustically pleasing typing experience.
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