Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Cherry MX Red stand out as two notable linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Everfree Cedar, a cost-effective choice from Gateron’s sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance while delivering a satisfying, poppy sound profile that can enhance your typing experience without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is a longstanding favorite among enthusiasts, known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper, "thocky" sound, providing a robust typing experience that’s both responsive and highly textured. While the Cedar may appeal to those seeking an economical switch with a light and airy feedback, the MX Red may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and resonant auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s perfect 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
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 switches and the Cherry MX Red switches, significant differences become apparent between their top housings. The EF Cedar employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer composition that results in a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. This characteristic not only enhances the clarity of the audio feedback but also contributes to a more resonant typing experience. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches designed to accommodate RGB lighting, allowing the lighting effects to shine through more vividly. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing is softer and more absorbent, yielding a deeper and rounder sound profile. Thus, while both switches serve a similar purpose, the choice of top housing material distinctly influences the auditory feedback each switch produces.
On the bottom housing front, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Cherry MX Red utilize nylon, which is a common and reliable material in switch construction. The durability and sound characteristics of nylon are leveraged in both cases to provide a deeper, fuller auditory experience when the key is bottomed out. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute similar qualities to the typing experience, resulting in sound absorption that leads to the characteristic duller feedback. Consequently, in this aspect, users can expect a comparable sensation and sound profile when pressing keys on both the EF Cedar and the MX Red switches, as the softness of nylon minimizes high-frequency sounds.
Ultimately, the combination of highly contrasting top housing materials and similar bottom housing materials results in a unique interplay of sound and feedback between the two switches. For instance, the Gateron EF Cedar produces a bright and resonant sound at key release due to its polycarbonate top, while the key engagement remains rounded and full due to its nylon bottom. Meanwhile, with the Cherry MX Red, the softer nylon top contributes a muted response which melds with the fuller sound produced at bottom out. This analysis highlights that while the two switches originate from different design philosophies, their combination of materials creates an overall diverse typing experience. For users, the choice between the two may ultimately hinge on preference for the sharper sound profile of the EF Cedar versus the deeper tones of the MX Red when typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, both actuation forces reveal interesting insights into their overall feel and suitability for different users. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Cherry MX Red is lighter, requiring only 45 grams to actuate. This difference indicates that the Cherry MX Red may be more appealing for those who prefer a lighter touch, as it would allow for less finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier 55-gram actuation force of the Everfree Cedar may provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience, which some users find preferable. Unfortunately, details regarding the bottom out force for both switches were not available, so we cannot compare this aspect directly. However, the actuation forces suggest that the Gateron Everfree Cedar is the heavier switch compared to the Cherry MX Red, which makes the latter a favorable choice for those who prioritize a lighter keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference means that the EF Cedar offers a shorter travel distance, which can lead to a more responsive feel, particularly appealing for gamers looking for quicker actuations. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced keystroke, which some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Thus, if you're after a faster response, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is the better choice, whereas the Cherry MX Red caters more to those who appreciate a deeper keypress.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 known for its satisfying, poppy sound profile, providing a clean auditory experience that many users appreciate. This makes it a refreshing choice for those who enjoy a distinct audio feedback without being overly loud. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch has a deeper and more robust sound profile, often described as "thocky" and low-pitched, which adds a rich auditory depth to each keystroke. This heavier bass emphasis conveys a sense of weight and immersion in the typing experience, creating an atmosphere that many typists find appealing. Both switches cater to different auditory preferences; if one values a more noticeable pop versus a deeper thock, either choice will deliver a sound that complements the typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar leverages a smooth and reliable linear mechanism that is favored by many who seek an uninterrupted, fluid typing experience. Users can enjoy a consistent keystroke without the distractions of tactile bumps or resistance. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Red, although also a linear switch, is noted for its slightly heftier feel. Some users might perceive it as having a level of texture, akin to a gentle friction that could be classified as scratchy. This nuanced texture can provide subtle feedback during typing, which can be either preferred or avoided, depending on individual preference.
In conclusion, selecting between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Cherry MX Red switches often comes down to personal preference in both sound and feel. While the Everfree switch excels in delivering a smooth and poppy auditory experience, the MX Red offers a deeper, more resonant typing sound that some might find more satisfying. Additionally, the Everfree emphasizes smoothness while the MX Red presents a slightly more textured experience. Ultimately, both switches will serve well within a mechanical keyboard setup, allowing users to choose based on their specific sound preferences and tactile sensations while typing.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you seek a smooth, reliable performance with a satisfying poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent and cost-effective choice, especially if you prioritize a less textured feel in your typing experience. This switch is great for those who enjoy a lightweight and seamless keystroke when gaming or typing for extended periods. Conversely, if you prefer a more robust typing experience characterized by a deeper, thocky sound and textured feedback, the Cherry MX Red will likely suit you better. Its slightly heftier feel may provide the auditory satisfaction and tangible feedback that some users enjoy, making it an ideal option for those who appreciate a deeper sound and a bit of character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s the smoothness of the Everfree Cedar or the more substantial auditory profile of the Cherry MX Red—to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
