Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and the specific experience you seek while typing or gaming. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch stands out as a cost-effective option, offering smooth and reliable performance with a satisfying poppy sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prioritize affordability without sacrificing quality. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch brings a lively, crisp auditory experience to the table, thanks to its long pole design, elevating the overall typing experience with its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation. While both switches are linear in nature, catering to those who prefer seamless keystrokes without tactile bumps, they each offer unique sound and performance characteristics that could influence your decision. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Piano Pro utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the auditory characteristics experienced while typing. The Everfree's polycarbonate top housing is engineered for clarity, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances the resonance of the sound produced when keys are pressed. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro opts for a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, rounder sound. Nylon absorbs sound more effectively than its polycarbonate counterpart, leading to a softer auditory experience. Thus, while both switches may be favored for different auditory preferences—one for a bright sound and the other for a mellow tone—the variation in housing materials results in notable differences in the acoustic results produced during typing.
When examining the bottom housings of the switches, both the Everfree Cedar and the V3 Piano Pro share the same material: nylon. This commonality means that the bottom-out sound and feel, which are significantly influenced by the bottom housing, will likely evoke similar experiences for users of both switches. Since nylon is characterized by its softness and sound absorption properties, the bottom housing in both switches contributes to a fuller sound profile, ensuring that typists encounter the muted thud associated with deeper sound produced from a softer material. In this respect, both switches maintain a consistency in the auditory experience at the bottom of the keypress, allowing users who prefer a more muted keystroke to find satisfaction in both options, despite their contrasting top housings.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Piano Pro feature different materials for their respective top housings, their nylon bottom housings create a unifying acoustic experience when pressed. The differing characteristics of the top housings cater to varied preferences—either sharper and crisper from polycarbonate or deeper and fuller from nylon—while the shared nylon material in the bottom housing ensures similar auditory outcomes upon bottoming out. Therefore, users can expect a consistent tactile feedback from both switches, despite the variance in sound produced when keys are released. Ultimately, this blend of materials creates a distinctive interplay of auditory sensations that satisfy different user preferences in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, noticeable differences arise in their specifications. The Everfree Cedar features an actuation force of 55 grams, which provides a firmer push for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams, making it more suited for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, where less physical effort is needed. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is not disclosed, which leaves an important aspect of its performance unknown. The Akko V3 Piano Pro, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 55 grams, aligning with its actuation force to create a balanced feel but indicating that it may provide a slight resistance once fully depressed. Overall, the Gateron Everfree Cedar is the heavier switch, potentially favored by those seeking a firmer tactile feedback, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a lighter touch that may appeal to users who value comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Everfree Cedar offers a bit more depth in its keypress, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro’s shorter travel distance could be preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times, as a more shallow travel can facilitate faster actuation. The difference of just 0.1 mm may seem marginal, but it can significantly influence the overall typing experience. Those who value a soft, deeper press might gravitate towards the Everfree Cedar, while the V3 Piano Pro could win over individuals who favor the rapidity associated with shorter distances. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is characterized by a satisfying, poppy sound that enhances the auditory enjoyment of each keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a clacky and resonant sound, delivering a sharp, snappy auditory experience that feels lively and crisp. While both switches can produce engaging sound signatures during typing, the Everfree Cedar leans towards a more subtle, pop-oriented tone, while the V3 Piano Pro focuses on a brighter and more percussive auditory presence. It's essential to remember that sound can vary based on the keyboard construction, keycap materials, and other factors.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is designed for smooth actuation, prioritizing a fluid typing experience, although specific descriptors for its tactile feedback are not provided. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches present a combination of bouncy responsiveness and creamy smoothness, providing a spring-like feel that enhances typing enjoyment. The Piano Pro's silky and polished attributes contribute to a refined experience, with a seamless glide across the keys. This dynamic variety in tactile feedback means that while the Cedar provides a straightforward smoothness, the Piano Pro promotes a more enlivened and luxurious touch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches offer appealing qualities, yet they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel. The Everfree Cedar emphasizes a poppy sound and smooth actuation, making it a reliable choice for those who appreciate a straightforward typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro excites with its crisp auditory signature and dynamic tactile feedback, perfect for users who enjoy a livelier and more tactile feel. Ultimately, if either switch aligns with your preferences, you'll undoubtedly find satisfaction in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, you'll want to consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing force. If you lean towards a smooth, reliable performance and appreciate a cost-effective option, the Everfree Cedar is a great choice, especially if you prefer a quieter and less invasive typing experience. Its poppy sound profile allows for a pleasant auditory feedback without being overly pronounced, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a more lively and engaging typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro might be your go-to. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams and clacky sound signature provide a fun and energetic feel with every keystroke, perfectly matching those who enjoy a playful yet responsive switch. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize a serene typing experience with the Everfree Cedar or a bouncier, more resonant feel with the V3 Piano Pro. Choosing the right switch will greatly enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, so take into account not just how they sound, but how they feel under your fingers.
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