Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly impact your typing experience. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and KTT Mint switches both offer linear performance but cater to slightly different preferences. The Everfree Cedar, a cost-effective option from Gateron's sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth, reliable action and satisfying poppy sound profile, making it an inviting choice for budget-conscious typists looking for performance without compromise. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch stands out with its notably light and fleeting feel, enhanced by a long pole stem that contributes to a distinct poppy "thockiness", appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile auditory response while maintaining linear smoothness. While both switches deliver excellent linear characteristics, your choice may hinge on factors such as sound preference and typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Mint share notable similarities, especially in their top housing, which is made of polycarbonate. The polycarbonate casing lends both switches a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to its clearer resonance, making it an excellent choice for users seeking pronounced auditory feedback. This is further amplified by the clear translucence of the polycarbonate, which not only provides an aesthetic appeal but also enhances the visual effects when RGB lighting is applied. As a result, users of both the Everfree and the Mint can expect a comparative auditory experience due to the identical material choices in their respective top housings.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Everfree (EF) Cedar and KTT Mint are both made of nylon, which serves as a classic material in mechanical switch design. Nylon contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, resulting from its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This quality leads to a rounder and more muted auditory experience, particularly during the bottom-out action when the key is fully pressed down. Both switches will exhibit this characteristic, providing a cohesive feel in typing experience despite their different brands. This duality of top and bottom housing materials means that while both switches may sound similar during actuation due to their polycarbonate tops, the overall auditory and tactile feedback will still be influenced by their nylon bottoms.
When pressing either the Everfree (EF) Cedar or the KTT Mint, the nuanced qualities introduced by their respective housings come into play distinctively. The polycarbonate top's sharper auditory feedback merges with the nylon bottom's deeper sound to create a well-rounded typing experience. However, the distribution of sound characteristics between the two materials will differ subtly— users will notice the impact of the nylon more during bottoming out, while the polycarbonate will shine more during key releases. Thus, while both switches exhibit similarities in sound profile and aesthetic thanks to their shared materials, the interplay between the two different housing materials guarantees a unique experience inherent to each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Everfree Cedar has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the 45 grams of the Mint, making the Cedar the heavier option. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Cedar more suitable for their needs. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable, making it difficult to assess how it compares in that aspect to the Mint, which has a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Mint’s medium-light actuation force may appeal to users looking for a lighter switch, making it easier for extended typing sessions or for gaming. Overall, users seeking a heavier switch experience would lean towards the Everfree Cedar, while those favoring a lighter feel might prefer the KTT Mint.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we find that the EF Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint measures 4 mm. This indicates that the Mint switch offers a longer travel distance compared to the Cedar switch. The Mint's 4 mm distance aligns with more traditional key switches, which often provide a more satisfying depth for users who appreciate a fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the Everfree Cedar's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those seeking speed and responsiveness, particularly desirable in gaming scenarios where quicker key presses are advantageous. Ultimately, if you're inclined towards a deeper feel with a longer travel, the KTT Mint would be the better choice, whereas the Gateron Everfree Cedar is more suited for users who favor a lighter touch and faster actuation.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch offers a satisfying, poppy sound profile, making it engaging for typists who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, which tends to deliver a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, along with a neutral sound profile that suits a variety of environments. While the Everfree Cedar provides a distinct auditory experience, the Mint’s focus on a balanced and subdued sound makes it a versatile choice for both home and office use. Ultimately, the sound of each switch will be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap material, but generally, users can expect a different listening experience between the two.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has not been specified in detail but is known for its smooth and reliable performance. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is described as offering a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users. Its polished finish contributes to a sleek typing sensation, resulting from reduced friction and smooth key travel, likely enhancing overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Therefore, while both switches demonstrate smoothness, the Mint stands out for its refined touch, catering to users seeking a gentle yet enjoyable typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and KTT Mint linear switches present distinct auditory and tactile qualities, which will cater to varying user preferences. The Cedar is favored for its engaging, poppy sound, while the Mint combines a low-pitched, neutral sound with a mild and polished feel. Deciding between the two will largely depend on whether you prefer a more active auditory feedback or a softer typing sensation; however, both options strive to deliver smooth performance for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you're looking for a switch that embodies smoothness and reliability while remaining cost-effective, the Everfree (EF) Cedar may be the right fit for you. It offers a satisfying sound profile that is poppy and potentially more suited for a relaxed or casual typing environment. This could be an attractive option if you work from home or prefer a quieter workspace without compromising performance. On the other hand, if you appreciate a light, fleeting feel with a touch of thockiness that enhances your typing experience, the KTT Mint switch is a compelling choice. Its low-pitched and neutral sound profile makes it versatile for various contexts, whether you're typing for leisure or at the office. Furthermore, the Mint’s polished finish promises a refined and smooth action, adding to the enjoyment of each keystroke. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you—smoothness, sound, or feel—and let that guide your switch selection.
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