Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. PH Studio Milk Tea

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the PH Studio Milk Tea both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Everfree Cedar, a product from Gateron's sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, providing a satisfying poppy sound profile that appeals to those seeking a cost-effective yet enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch, manufactured by BSUN, showcases a unique auditory blend that features a high-pitched sound complemented by a muted essence, achieving a refined balance that caters to users who appreciate both clarity and subtlety in their keystrokes. While the Everfree Cedar focuses on delivering a more straightforward yet delightful tactile feel, the Milk Tea switch emphasizes a marbly, polished quality that enhances the typing experience with every keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar Linear

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$2.99

$2.75 per 10

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and PH Studio Milk Tea switches employ different materials for their top housings, which significantly affects the acoustic characteristics of each switch. The Everfree (EF) Cedar utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is partly due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Milk Tea features a POM top housing, which is associated with a deeper and more muted sound profile. Although these materials serve the same function in switch design, their unique qualities result in differing auditory experiences: the Everfree tends to emphasize brightness, while the Milk Tea leans towards a warmer tone.

When examining the bottom housings, both switches utilize materials that create similar sound profiles based on their physical properties. The Everfree (EF) Cedar relies on a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its relatively softer nature. Nylon absorbs sound more effectively, contributing to a duller sound experience. Meanwhile, the Milk Tea features a POM bottom housing that also yields a muted sound profile, albeit with its own distinct characteristics. Both materials work synergistically with their respective top housings to create harmonious auditory results; however, the overall experience will differ based on the contrasting properties of the top materials used in each switch.

Ultimately, the combined impact of the differing top and bottom housings leads to unique sound profiles for each switch. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar’s polycarbonate top provides a bright, resonant clarity, while its nylon bottom enhances depth and fullness, resulting in a well-rounded audio experience. Conversely, the PH Studio Milk Tea's POM top and bottom collaborate to produce a cohesive sound that is richer and more subdued. Despite their material differences, users may find that if seeking similar sound results, they can opt for switches that prioritize sound quality over individual housing materials. By strategically choosing switches based on bottom-out sound and release tone, enthusiasts can achieve a satisfying acoustic experience catered to their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Everfree Cedar requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Milk Tea is significantly lighter at 37.5 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions would likely find the Milk Tea more suitable, as it allows for less fatigue over long periods. In terms of bottom out force, the Milk Tea also has a defined bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it a clearer option for users who appreciate feedback when bottoming out their keys. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, making a direct comparison challenging. However, since the actuation force of the Everfree Cedar is higher, it suggests that it may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Overall, the Milk Tea is the lighter switch and may appeal to typists and gamers looking for a more effortless experience, whereas the Everfree Cedar's heavier actuation may attract those seeking a firmer keystroke.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch are both 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable keypress feel when utilizing either switch, as both require the same distance to actuate from the top to the bottom. Consequently, whether one opts for the Everfree or the Milk Tea, the experience of pressing down on the keys will yield similar results, providing a consistent tactile experience across both switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is characterized by a satisfying, poppy resonance, offering a balanced auditory experience that feels pleasant without being overly intrusive. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch presents a more complex sound, leaning toward a fairly high-pitched note that retains a muted essence; this creates a unique auditory blend that balances presence and subtlety. The Milk Tea is noted for its clacky, marbly, and resonant characteristics, resulting in a crisp and bright sound when keys are activated, making it distinct from the Everfree's poppy signature.

When examining the feel of these two switches, the Everfree (EF) Cedar's specifics are not detailed in the information provided, leaving its tactile experience a bit of a mystery. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch impresses with a polished and silky feel. This ensures a smooth, refined typing experience with minimal resistance, potentially leading to a more enjoyable and effortless interaction with the keyboard. The high-quality materials and construction contribute to a luxurious typing sensation that many users may favor.

In conclusion, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar switches provide a pleasing sound experience, their tactile feel remains unspecified, making it challenging to provide a full comparison. The Milk Tea switches, however, offer a remarkable auditory experience paired with a silky and polished feeling that stands out in its category. If you're looking for an engaging auditory experience with a smooth typing sensation, the Milk Tea is likely the better option, while the Everfree may appeal to those seeking a more cost-effective switch with a unique sound profile.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and usage context. If you're seeking a smooth, reliable typing experience with a cost-effective option that delivers a satisfying, poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar could be the right fit for you. Its smooth key travel and dependable performance make it ideal for everyday typing or gaming sessions where you need a reliable and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more character-rich auditory experience, the Milk Tea switch offers a unique blend of clackiness, high-pitched tones, and a polished, silky feel that is particularly pleasing for enthusiasts. This switch might be better suited for those who appreciate a more dynamic sound when typing or gaming and who enjoy the nuances in auditory feedback. Ultimately, consider the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard and whether you value a smoother, quieter profile or a more resonant and lively auditory experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar Linear

$2.99

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more