Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches make for an intriguing comparison. The Everfree Cedar, recognized for its smooth, reliable performance, provides users with a satisfying, poppy sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the noise typically associated with tactile switches. This switch offers a cost-effective option from Gateron's sub-brand, appealing to budget-conscious consumers seeking quality. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro delivers an impressively smooth typing experience adorned with a low-pitched, pleasing "thock" sound that enhances the overall feel of the keyboard. Known for its buttery keystrokes, this switch caters to users who desire a seamless typing experience. Both switches serve distinct preferences, allowing users to choose based on the auditory and tactile feedback they desire. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
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
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), a notable difference arises in their top housing construction. The Everfree Cedar utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for clearer resonance when typing. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the dissimilarity in the top housing means that users can expect different sound characteristics when pressing and releasing the keys.
Both switches share nylon in their bottom housing, leading to a similar acoustic result where sound is absorbed, producing a rounder and deeper tone. This shared material enhances the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience, making both switches feel relatively muted compared to those with a stiffer top housing. The impact of the nylon in each switch ensures that, regardless of the top housing material, the bottom housing will consistently provide that signature depth and fullness while typing. Therefore, when you bottom out on either switch, the deeper sound experience remains comparable, allowing for a shared quality within this aspect.
However, the contrast between the top housing materials highlights how each switch's overall sound profile differs significantly during the act of releasing a key. The polycarbonate top of the Everfree Cedar delivers a pronounced and clear piercing sound when keys are released, while the nylon top of the Milky Red Pro ensures a more subdued acoustic output. Thus, while both may offer an enjoyable typing experience rooted in their shared nylon bottom housing, the variation in top housing materials creates distinct auditory characteristics, allowing keyboard enthusiasts to choose based on their preferred sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on whether a user favors the bright clarity of polycarbonate or the deeper fullness of nylon in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it the heavier option, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference in actuation force means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch and easier key presses may gravitate toward the Milky Red Pro, which can facilitate longer typing or gaming sessions with less fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree switch is unknown, while the Milky Red Pro has a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorized as medium-light. If the bottom out force of the Everfree were available and equal to that of the Milky Red Pro, users would experience similar results in terms of pressing down the key. Without this information, it's unclear how the bottom out experience would differ between the two switches. Thus, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar is heavier in actuation force, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a lighter touch, potentially suited for different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the Everfree measuring at 3.6 mm and the Milky Red Pro at 4.0 mm. This means that the Milky Red Pro provides a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Everfree, catering to users who favor a more substantial keypress feel. Gamers who prioritize responsiveness may gravitate towards the Everfree, given its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker actuation. In contrast, users who prefer a more pronounced tactile depth may appreciate the Milky Red Pro for its traditional travel length. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding keypress response and overall feel.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 switch offers a satisfying poppy sound profile that enhances the typing experience, making it enjoyable yet not overpowering when in use. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3), on the other hand, delivers a deeper, bassy sound characterized by a low-pitched “thock” that is rich and resonant. This results in a more immersive auditory feedback during each keystroke. Both switches can produce pleasing sounds, though the Everfree focuses more on a crisper pop, whereas the Milky Red Pro leans into a more profound, thocky tone.
Regarding feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar remains somewhat ambiguous in its descriptions, leaving most attributes understated. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is well-regarded for its buttery smooth keystrokes, which lend themselves to a seamless and fluid typing sensation. The effortless action of the Milky Red Pro creates a delightful tactile experience that can foster prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. Although the feel of the Everfree Cedar isn’t explicitly characterized here, many users may find it reasonably smooth due to its linear design, resulting in a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches cater to different audio and tactile preferences. The Everfree provides a lighter poppy sound with an unspecified feel, perfect for those seeking a more traditional linear switch experience. Conversely, the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a rich, thock sound with a smoother keystroke, ideal for users favoring a more buttery typing experience. Choices may ultimately depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, as both can achieve satisfying results in the right keyboard configuration.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are looking for a switch that offers a smooth and cost-effective option for both gaming and typing, the Everfree (EF) Cedar could be your go-to. Its appeal lies in its reliability and satisfying sound, which makes it a great pick for a budget-conscious user who still wants a quality experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth keystroke and a deeper, thocky sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) should be your switch of choice. With a medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams, it provides a comfortable typing experience without being overly demanding, which can enhance prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the poppy nature of the Everfree Cedar or the rich acoustics of the Milky Red Pro, both switches deliver excellent performance tailored to different typing experiences.
Mentioned in this article
