Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Mars each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, delivering a satisfying poppy sound profile without breaking the bank. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a dependable, budget-friendly option that enhances their typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mars boasts an innovative design, incorporating a POK stem and a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM. This combination not only enhances durability but also offers a distinct tactile feel, appealing to those who prioritize build quality and unique switch mechanisms. Both switches are linear, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or click, but their material compositions and sound profiles set them apart. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Mars feature contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their auditory profiles. The EF Cedar utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's acoustics. In contrast, the Mars employs a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon tend to absorb sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. If a similar sound profile is desired, it would be necessary to alleviate the impact of the different top materials through careful typing techniques or by modifying bottom housing materials to achieve a balance between clarity and depth.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a notable difference as well. The EF Cedar features nylon in its bottom housing, contributing to the switch's overall sound profile by adding a deeper, fuller tone that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Mars is equipped with a POM bottom housing. POM, or polyoxymethylene, provides a unique and pleasing acoustic result that leans towards a deeper and somewhat muted quality. While both switches use variations of nylon and other materials, the thematic difference lies in the EF Cedar's ability to create a more resounding bottom-out sound thanks to its nylon bottom versus the more muted yet pleasant characteristics of the Mars's POM bottom, which could modulate the overall auditory experience of each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in both the Everfree Cedar and Mars creates distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top of the EF Cedar contributes to a brighter release sound, enhancing the clarity during key release while the nylon bottom softens the impact upon bottoming out. Conversely, the combination of a nylon top and POM bottom in the Mars results in a sound experience that is more subdued and rounded at both the actuation and release stages. Although the switches could be optimized for similar auditory results through various typing techniques or housing modifications, it is the inherent properties of these materials that define their unique interactions and ultimately influence the user's experience with each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the actuation force reveals distinct preferences in typing experience. The Everfree Cedar requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Mars has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Mars switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel might opt for the Everfree Cedar. However, both switches lack specific bottom out force values, which prevents a direct comparison in that regard. Thus, while the Cedar switch is heavier in terms of actuation force, the undefined bottom out forces for both switches leave a gap in understanding their final pressing resistance. Overall, for a lighter typing experience, the Mars is the better choice, whereas the Cedar offers a firmer feel for those who prefer it.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch both exhibit a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this regard. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of either switch, as they both require the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Since their travel distances are equal, individuals looking for a consistent feel in their keystrokes will find both switches to deliver equivalent performance in this aspect.
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 Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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, which can create a pleasant auditory feedback when typing. This makes it a favorable option for users looking for a little zest in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switch does not have a specified sound description; however, the switches' unique design with a POK stem potentially influences the acoustic properties, making it likely to have a distinct sound signature of its own. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also rely heavily on the keyboard's chassis and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is noted for its smooth and reliable performance, delivering a consistent and seamless typing experience that many users appreciate in linear switches. The feel complements the switch's sound characteristics, providing an engaging overall experience. The Mars switch, while lacking explicit feedback on its tactile characteristics, features a distinctive blend of Nylon and POM in its housing, which could suggest an enhanced smoothness or durability. However, without detailed information on its feel, it's difficult to make a direct comparison.
Combining the available information, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Mars linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar stands out with its poppy sound and smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lively yet reliable switch. The Mars, with its innovative materials, holds promise for an intriguing feel and sound, although specifics are lacking. Users considering either switch will likely find satisfaction in their performance, but those seeking a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience may lean toward the Everfree (EF) Cedar for its known characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Mars linear switches, your choice will largely depend on your preferences for sound and feel during typing. If you're looking for a switch that offers smooth, reliable performance with a distinctive, poppy sound profile, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is a solid option, especially if you appreciate a more cost-effective choice. Its design focuses on delivering a satisfying typing experience that is both comforting and enjoyable for long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you are drawn to innovative designs and materials, the Mars switch, with its unique POK stem and housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, may be more appealing. This switch emphasizes a different tactile sensation and could be ideal for those who prioritize a specific typing feel or are looking for something distinct from traditional choices. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how each switch aligns with your typing style and sound preference, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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