Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro present two compelling options for enthusiasts who favor linear switches. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, paired with a cost-effective price point, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a solid typing experience without breaking the bank. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro stands out with a more substantial feel and a sharper bottom-out that provides satisfying tactile feedback, perfect for typists and gamers who enjoy a more resonant and engaging keystroke. While both switches are linear in nature, the distinct sound profiles and feedback experiences they offer cater to different user preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro share a significant similarity in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced during typing. In both switches, the translucent polycarbonate top allows light to pass through effectively, making it especially suitable for setups featuring RGB lighting. Consequently, users of both the Everfree Cedar and V3 Matcha Green Pro can expect a crisp, high-pitched auditory experience when typing, thanks to the characteristics of polycarbonate that elevate the overall sound profile.
Conversely, the bottom housings of these switches differ, with both utilizing nylon, a classic choice in the keyboard switch industry. The nylon's softer composition means that it absorbs sound more efficiently than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches with nylon housings. This material choice contributes to a more rounded and warmer acoustic quality when typing. The synergy of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches helps create a balanced auditory experience, where the crispness of the top complements the fullness of the bottom, albeit through different sound characteristics.
In terms of the overall performance and typing experience, the unique blend of materials yields differentiated results based on their sound profile contributions. For example, when typing on the Everfree Cedar, one would feel the effects of the nylon bottom housing more prominently on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing would influence the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro delivers a comparable experience with its plastic housing configuration. Therefore, even though the top housings share the same material and resulting sound qualities, the variations created by the housing's dual-material design lead to an engaging typing experience that highlights the strengths of both materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, both models exhibit the same actuation force of 55 grams. This means that users will experience a similar keystroke trigger, making either switch well-suited for extended typing sessions, as the lighter actuation helps reduce fatigue during prolonged use. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly; the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a measurable bottom out force of 63 grams, which suggests a firmer feel when pressing the switch all the way down. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar's bottom out force is not specified, leaving a gap in the comparison. As a result, while both switches share the same actuation force, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is clearly the heavier option overall due to its defined bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you are looking for a more responsive switch, the Everfree Cedar may suit you better, as its shorter travel distance can facilitate quicker actuation, which is often preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel while typing, providing a more traditional tactile experience. Therefore, if you want a quicker response, the Everfree Cedar would be the better choice, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a more pronounced depth.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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
When considering the sound profile of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, players can expect a satisfying, poppy sound that embodies smoothness and reliability. The design emphasizes a pleasant auditory experience, though specific descriptions of its sound characteristics are lacking. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro delivers a sound profile described as clacky and resonant, producing sharp, crisp, and percussive notes that enhance the overall typing experience. This switch is characterized by a higher-pitched sound, which can immerse users in a more vibrant auditory landscape, offering a stark difference between the two options.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar does not have an explicit description, leaving some ambiguity in its tactile feedback. However, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is known for its bouncy and creamy attributes, providing a spring-like sensation with a lively rebound on keystrokes. The typing experience is enhanced by a silky smoothness due to either factory lubrication or the quality of the materials used in construction. This results in a refined, polished feel that minimizes resistance, creating an overall enjoyable typing experience that many users appreciate.
In conclusion, if you're choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, the sound profiles differ significantly, with the Matcha Green Pro providing a clacky resonance compared to the smooth, straightforward sound of the Everfree Cedar. The tactile feedback of the Matcha Green Pro is also notably more dynamic, offering a lively and creamy feel, whereas the Everfree Cedar's tactile response remains undefined. If you value a distinct auditory and tactile experience, the Matcha Green Pro may be the preferable choice, while the Everfree Cedar remains a reliable option for those looking for smooth and consistent performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, your choice will depend on your typing preferences and usage style. If you prioritize a smooth and reliable feel without the distraction of a pronounced sound profile, the Everfree Cedar switch is an excellent option, particularly for those who may be looking for a budget-friendly solution. Its poppy sound and cost-effectiveness make it suitable for daily use, particularly in quieter environments like an office setting where sound levels are a consideration. On the other hand, if you seek a more tactile and auditory experience while typing or gaming, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the switch for you. Its medium bottom-out force provides a substantial feedback sensation that enhances the keystroke with a satisfying clack and resonates with a lively action that many find enjoyable. Therefore, your ultimate choice should reflect your specific preferences, whether that be the understated reliability of the Everfree Cedar or the engaging feedback and auditory delight offered by the Matcha Green Pro.
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