Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Haimu Orange Sea 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 Haimu Orange Sea both stand out as excellent linear options, each offering unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar is renowned for its smooth and reliable performance, providing a satisfying poppy sound profile that makes typing a joy, while also being a cost-effective choice from Gateron's sub-brand. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea delights with an impeccably smooth typing experience and a neutral sound signature, making it a stealthy option suitable for both work and play. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on your sound preferences and desired tactile feedback; the Cedar excites those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback, whereas the Orange Sea appeals to those who prefer a quieter experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Haimu Orange Sea both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a remarkably similar auditory profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that many users find appealing for typing and gaming. Both switches take advantage of this material's translucency, making them particularly well-suited for setups with RGB lighting, as the light can pass through the clear housing, creating a visually striking effect. This shared characteristic not only enhances the aesthetic of the switches but also ensures that users will experience a crisp and resonant sound profile regardless of which switch they choose.
In contrast to their similarities in top housing, the bottom housings of the Everfree (EF) Cedar and Haimu Orange Sea also share a common material: nylon. This classic material is softer than polycarbonate, which dramatically affects the sound profile of the switches. When typed on, nylon absorbs more sound waves compared to its harder counterparts, leading to a deeper and fuller sound that rounds out the sharper qualities introduced by the polycarbonate top. As both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a similar auditory depth, contributing to a balanced typing experience that combines the clarity of the top housing with the richness of the bottom.
Overall, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar and Haimu Orange Sea share the same fundamental materials for both their top and bottom housings, the interplay between these two components means that users can enjoy a distinctly tailored sound profile. The top housing's polycarbonate lends itself to brightness and clarity, whereas the nylon bottom housing helps round out that sound with richness and depth upon bottoming out. This duality ensures that no matter which switch is chosen, the combination will consistently deliver an engaging and enjoyable tactile experience suitable for various typing and gaming scenarios.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Everfree Cedar has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, making it the heavier option, while the Orange Sea requires a lighter actuation force of just 37 grams. This difference can significantly impact user experience; the lighter Orange Sea may appeal to those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier Everfree Cedar might appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel with each keystroke. As for the bottom out forces, the Orange Sea has a measured bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown. This factor may further differentiate their tactile feedback and overall feel when typing. Consequently, users should consider their preferences for actuation feel and typing comfort when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this regard. This means that users can expect the same keypress experience when using either switch, resulting in a similar tactile feel and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they offer equivalent performance in terms of depth and feedback during use.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches produce a satisfying, poppy sound profile, which can add a lively character to your typing experience. This auditory feedback can enhance the overall enjoyment of using the keyboard. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches provide a neutral sound signature. While this means that they are quieter and less distinct than the Everfree, the sound produced is not jarring and can create a more subdued typing environment. It’s worth noting that the sound of either switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, meaning that a user's final auditory experience may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switches are recognized for their smooth and reliable performance, offering a pleasant typing experience that is satisfying for both casual and serious users. This smooth operation can make long typing sessions more comfortable. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are touted for delivering an impeccably smooth type feel, which could indicate a superior tactile experience that may appeal to users who prioritize a fluid typing motion without any distraction from the keypress. Both switches emphasize smoothness, suggesting that users looking for a seamless experience will be pleased with either option.
In conclusion, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches each cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Everfree stands out with its poppy sound profile, while the Orange Sea offers a more neutral auditory experience. Comfort and smoothness are prominent features in both switches, making them reliable choices for new mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between them will hinge on personal preference toward sound characteristics, while users can expect a pleasing touch experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a satisfying poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent option; it’s designed to deliver reliable performance at a cost-effective price, making it suitable for long typing sessions or casual gaming. The absence of a specified bottom-out force indicates that these switches may feel lighter and more responsive, which could appeal to those who favor a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, if you are seeking a highly refined typing sensation with an impeccably smooth feel and a neutral sound signature, the Haimu Orange Sea might be the better choice for you. The 45 grams bottom-out force provides a light touch, making it ideal for fast-paced typists or gamers who prefer precision without feeling fatigued. Both switches excel in their own right, so consider what aspects—be it sound, feel, or responsiveness—are most critical to your typing or gaming experience before making your final decision.
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