Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and KTT Phalaenopsis offer two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Everfree Cedar, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, providing a seamless keystroke without tactile interruptions. Its cost-effective design from Gateron’s sub-brand makes it an appealing option for users seeking simplicity and consistency, all while delivering a satisfying poppy sound profile that can enhance the auditory experience of typing. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis stands out with its tactile feedback and beautiful translucent aesthetics. With a light actuation force of just 37g, it minimizes finger fatigue, making it an excellent choice for those who type for extended periods, while its 50g tactile force ensures that each keystroke is both enjoyable and tactilely responsive. Both switches cater to unique user needs, with the Everfree Cedar emphasizing smoothness and quiet operation, while the Phalaenopsis focuses on tactile feedback and comfort. 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
37g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the KTT Phalaenopsis, one can observe a striking similarity in the materials used for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for this purpose, which inherently produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This parallel leads to a similar transmittance of sound characteristics, resulting in clear and resonant auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes both switches particularly well-suited for RGB lighting applications, ensuring that light diffusion remains effective and vibrant in aesthetic setups.
However, the contrast arises in the bottom housing materials of each switch. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a nylon bottom housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This results in a more muted and rounded auditory experience, particularly noticeable when the switch bottoms out. In stark contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which retains the sharper and clearer profile typical of polycarbonate. This difference in material properties means that the overall sound experience of the Phalaenopsis is brighter and more resonant throughout the key press compared to the warmer, bass-heavy sensation from the processed nylon of the Cedar.
Ultimately, the differing materials of the Everfree (EF) Cedar and KTT Phalaenopsis lead to unique typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Cedar softens the auditory impact during bottoming out, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis maintains a consistent high-pitched clarity. Users seeking a richer, bass-oriented sound would likely prefer the Everfree (EF) Cedar, while those who favor a more vibrant and resonant audio experience will gravitate toward the KTT Phalaenopsis. Despite their similarities in the top housing material, the overall character of the switches diverges significantly due to the contrasting bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, distinct differences emerge. The Everfree Cedar boasts an actuation force of 55 grams, which is significantly heavier than the Phalaenopsis's actuation force of 37 grams. This means that for typists who prefer a lighter feel, the Phalaenopsis would be more suitable, especially for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable, which makes direct comparisons to the Phalaenopsis’s bottom out force of 50 grams impossible. Nevertheless, the known forces indicate that the Everfree Cedar is the heavier option overall, providing a more substantial push feel. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis, with its lighter actuation force and specified bottom out force, would likely appeal to those who prioritize a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Everfree switch the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers and users who prioritize responsiveness, allowing for quicker actuation with each press. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis, with its deeper 4 mm travel distance, provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, if you opt for the Everfree switch, you will enjoy faster response times, but if you lean towards the Phalaenopsis, you will appreciate the depth and feedback that come with the longer travel distance.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 and poppy sound profile. This sound quality aligns well with the characteristics of linear switches, which are generally quieter and less pronounced compared to tactile or clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a richer auditory experience as described by its bassy and thocky sound profile. The deep, resonant "thud" associated with each keystroke can make typing feel more engaging and satisfying, especially when paired with a suitable keyboard. Ultimately, while the cedar switch provides a clean linear sound, the phalaenopsis stands out with its more dynamic auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a pleasant option for typists who prefer a linear experience without tactile feedback. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch introduces a more complex tactile sensation with its 50g tactile force and stepped design. This means users can enjoy a discernible tactile bump that can enhance typing precision, especially for those who prefer the feedback during typing. The stepped feel provides a nuanced typing experience, contrasting with the straightforward glide of the cedar switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct experiences in both sound and feel. The cedar provides a smooth and quiet performance with a poppy sound, making it ideal for users seeking a minimalist typing experience. In contrast, the phalaenopsis delivers a more textured, engaging feel with its tactile bump and richer sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, as each provides a unique typing experience suited to different tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you value a smooth, linear experience where each keystroke feels unencumbered, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice. Its reliable performance makes it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming, providing a seamless feel without the distraction of tactile feedback. In contrast, if you appreciate a more tactile feedback during your typing and seek a richer auditory experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis might be more to your liking. Its satisfying tactile bump and deeper sound profile enhance the feedback you receive with each stroke, making it a wonderful option for both spirited typing sessions and calmer writing. Moreover, if you’re concerned about finger fatigue during extended use, the lighter actuation force of the Phalaenopsis can help you type comfortably for longer periods. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits; your decision should reflect the balance between whether you prefer a smooth linear response or the engaging tactile sensations that the KTT Phalaenopsis provides.
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