Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Outemu Dustproof Black stand out as compelling options in the world of linear switches. The Everfree Cedar, a cost-effective choice from Gateron's sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance alongside a satisfying, poppy sound profile that appeals to many gamers and typists alike. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Black emphasizes durability and a solid build quality, aiming to provide an uninterrupted user experience free from debris and dust. Both switches offer a linear mechanism that allows for swift keystrokes without tactile feedback, making them perfect for users who prefer smooth actuation over clicky sounds. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Outemu Dustproof Black, it is apparent that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality leads to a similar sound profile and overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing contributes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Both switches benefit from this property, making them suitable for users who prefer a clear and resonant auditory feedback while typing. The translucency of the polycarbonate further enhances the visual appeal for those using RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through more vibrantly, a feature shared across both switch types.
On the other hand, the bottom housings diverge in their effects on sound. Both the EF Cedar and the Dustproof Black employ nylon for their bottom housings, which offers a contrast to the top housing's polycarbonate. This material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, since nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, when users press down on either switch, they will experience a rounded bottom-out sound and feel due to the nylon bottom housing. The combination of the top and bottom housing materials thus creates a balanced auditory experience, enriched by the softer qualities of the nylon paired with the crispness of polycarbonate.
In summary, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Outemu Dustproof Black both utilize polycarbonate and nylon in their housings, their shared materials contribute distinctively to their overall sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches results in a sharper and more resonant sound, making them well-suited for vibrant RGB setups. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing in both contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when bottoming out. This combination ensures that, despite the identical materials, users will find certain tonal qualities enhanced or softened depending on the housing they are interacting with, leading to a quality typing experience that can be appreciated in both models.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The EF Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it lighter than the Outemu Dustproof Black, which has an actuation force of 60 grams. This lighter actuation force of the Everfree switch can make it more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as less effort is required to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the EF Cedar does not have a specified value, while the Dustproof Black has a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Black switch provides a more substantial feel when fully pressed down, which could appeal to users who prefer a stronger tactile sensation. Overall, if a lighter typing experience is important, the Gateron EF Cedar is the preferable choice, while those who appreciate a heavier switch for added feedback might lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Black.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, we find that they differ notably in their measurements. The Everfree (EF) Cedar switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Black comes in at a more traditional 4.0 mm. This makes the Everfree switch the shorter option, offering a snappier response that is often favored by gamers for its quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black's longer travel distance can provide a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your personal preferences regarding responsiveness and depth in key presses.
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 Outemu Dustproof Black comes in at $3.10 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
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a satisfying, poppy sound profile that adds a pleasant auditory experience when typing or gaming. This sound characteristic, combined with its smooth operation, appeals to users looking for a switch that not only performs well but also sounds enjoyable. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch lacks a defined sound profile, making it difficult to draw specific conclusions about its auditory qualities. When considering sound, users can expect a distinct difference between the two, with the Everfree switch offering more engagement while the Dustproof Black may showcase a more neutral, less prominent acoustic presence.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is known for its smooth and reliable performance, which makes it a favorable choice for those who appreciate a consistent typing experience. The linearity of this switch ensures that there is no tactile bump, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the feel of the Dustproof Black switch is not explicitly described, which leaves uncertainty regarding its touch responsiveness and overall typing experience. As a result, while the Everfree Cedar offers a clear and consistent tactile feedback, potential users of the Dustproof Black may need to consider other factors or seek more information to fully understand its feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch stands out for its pleasing auditory profile and smooth feel, making it an attractive option for users seeking both performance and enjoyment from their mechanical keyboards. The Outemu Dustproof Black, while this switch appears to lack defined sound characteristics and feel description, could still provide a satisfactory experience, albeit without the engaging sound signature of the Everfree Cedar. Ultimately, users seeking a reliable and pleasing switch will find the Everfree Cedar to be a compelling choice, while those with the Dustproof Black may need further experimentation or additional feedback to determine its suitability for their typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style. The Everfree Cedar is ideal for you if you’re looking for a smooth and reliable typing experience with a satisfying poppy sound, making it great for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions without strain. Its lighter actuation force allows for quicker key presses, which can enhance your responsiveness in games or speed in typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience and can handle a heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams, the Outemu Dustproof Black is a solid choice, particularly if you value durability and a robust construction. Its heavier feel can provide more feedback, making it suitable for those who enjoy typing with more resistance, potentially reducing the chance of accidental key presses. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing habits—whether you favor a lighter, more effortless touch or a firmer, more deliberate actuation.
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