Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Neptune each offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Everfree Cedar, from Gateron's sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it an excellent cost-effective choice for those seeking a dependable linear switch. Its poppy sound profile adds an engaging auditory dimension to typing, providing a satisfying tactile feedback that many users enjoy. Conversely, the TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure, delivering a uniquely frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance that evokes the sensation of chewy mochi or tapioca pearls. Its ultralight weight facilitates swift and effortless typing, while the thocky sound signature offers a muted but satisfying acoustic experience. Both switches have their own merits; the Everfree Cedar appeals to users looking for a reliable and engaging sound, while the Neptune is perfect for those who prioritize a lightweight and smooth typing experience. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Neptune reveals distinct differences in housing materials that significantly affect their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound profile. In contrast, the TTC Neptune utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which generates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials serve to create a unique auditory experience, the stark difference in tonal quality is noteworthy; the polycarbonate of the Cedar leans more towards brightness, while the Neptune's POM imparts warmth and depth.
The bottom housing materials of the two switches further accentuate their differences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound than harder materials. This results in a rounder and less intrusive typing sound. Conversely, the TTC Neptune's bottom housing is made of polycarbonate, mirroring the characteristics of its top housing to an extent. This paring results in a sharper bottom-out sound profile, thereby blending the clarity associated with polycarbonate with the lower tones contributed by the POM on the top side. Thus, the sonic experience during use is distinctly affected by the materials of the bottom housing as well as the top.
In summary, while both switches utilize different combinations of housing materials, the resulting typing experiences vary considerably. The Everfree (EF) Cedar's housing setup promises a bright and sharp sound profile ideal for users seeking clarity, particularly accentuated during the release of the keys. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune offers a richer soundscape that combines deep and muted tones, creating a more subdued yet pleasant typing experience. The interaction of the different housing materials allows each switch to offer a unique auditory feedback; however, should one desire to achieve similar results between them, it would involve leveraging the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune to pair with a nylon top housing if designed, or utilizing similar techniques for sound dampening.
Weight
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation forces, with the former requiring a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 41 grams of the Neptune. This means that users will experience a more substantial push feel with the Everfree, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger typing experience. In terms of bottom out forces, the Neptune has a specified bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Everfree is unknown. This uncertainty leaves it unclear how the two switches compare in that regard. Ultimately, while the Gateron Everfree is the heavier option, making it potentially less suitable for long typing sessions, the TTC Neptune with its lighter actuation force may be more comfortable for extended use, especially in work or gaming contexts.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we find that the Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Neptune offers a slightly longer travel distance at 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm means that the Everfree Cedar is the shorter switch, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who favor quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Neptune's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feeling, appealing to users who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, choosing between them will come down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth; those who desire a snappier response should opt for the Everfree Cedar, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced action may prefer the Neptune.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is characterized by a satisfying, poppy sound profile that can be pleasing to the ear while typing. This sound tends to be more prominent than the TTC Neptune, which offers a low-pitched, muted sound that is also thocky and subdued. The Neptune's sound signature minimizes the typical mechanical keyboard noise, making it a great choice for quieter environments, while the Everfree Cedar provides a more vibrant auditory feedback, which may appeal to those who enjoy hearing their keystrokes more distinctly.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar delivers a reliable performance, though specific descriptors for its tactile experience are not provided. In contrast, the TTC Neptune is noted for its buttery smoothness, offering a frictionless keystroke that creates a seamless typing experience. It's further described as having a gummy quality that provides a unique sensation when bottoming out, similar to the buoyancy of a trampoline. This makes the Neptune quite enjoyable for extended typing sessions, as it delivers a gentle yet engaging tactile feedback that keeps typing lively and fun.
In summary, if you prefer a switch that delivers a clear auditory feedback, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is a suitable choice with its poppy sound profile. On the other hand, if you favor a quieter experience with a smooth, nearly frictionless keystroke, the TTC Neptune switch will provide that soothing, thocky feel. Both switches have their unique advantages, ensuring that newcomers can find something that suits their personal typing preferences, whether for sound or feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you're looking for a cost-effective option that delivers reliable performance along with a satisfying, poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar may be the right choice for you. Its design is perfect for those who appreciate straightforward, smooth keypresses and are perhaps newer to mechanical keyboards, making it a great starting point. On the other hand, if you desire a typing experience that combines an innovative, frictionless glide with a springy, chewy resistance, the TTC Neptune is an excellent option. This switch not only offers a muted, low-pitched thock sound, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience, but its ultralight weight also promotes swift, effortless typing that can enhance productivity, especially during long typing sessions. Therefore, assess your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as consider whether you want a beginner-friendly experience or something a bit more advanced and textured. Both switches have their unique qualities; it’s all about what resonates with you the most.
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