Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing the characteristics and performance of various options to suit their typing style and preferences. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, a linear switch, is well-regarded for its smooth and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fluid keystroke without any tactile interruptions. With a satisfying poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar stands out as a cost-effective solution for gamers and typists who prefer a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switch offers a tactile experience that appeals to users who appreciate a crisp and light tactile bump, accompanied by a deeper, resonant sound due to its meticulously designed nylon housing. The Quinn switch delivers a rich auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy a more engaging interaction with their keyboard. While the Everfree Cedar excels in smoothness and ease, the Quinn adds a layer of tactile enjoyment and character to each keystroke. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Quinn, a key distinction lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Everfree (EF) Cedar utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's rigidity, which fosters a clear and resonant vocal quality. Its translucency also makes it particularly appealing for RGB lighting setups, as the light can pass through effectively, illuminating the switch aesthetically. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn features a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and smoother sound profile. The use of nylon tends to yield a rounder tone, offering a more muted auditory experience when typing. This fundamental difference showcases how the material choices significantly impact the acoustic characteristics of each switch.
Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings, which is nylon. This creates a consistent experience in terms of sound and feel during key presses, as typing on both switches will result in a deep and full sound profile due to nylon's inherent properties. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory output. Thus, regardless of the differences in their top housings, players can expect similar tactile and acoustic sensations when bottoming out on either the Everfree (EF) Cedar or the Quinn. This shared material allows both switches to deliver comparable feedback during key presses, creating a unified experience in terms of the impact felt at the bottom of the switch.
Ultimately, the interaction between the differing top housing materials and the common nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall experience of using these switches. The contrast between the polycarbonate and nylon top housings allows users to choose between a vibrant, sharper sound or a more subdued and rich auditory feel when releasing keys. However, both switches will consistently produce a deeper, fuller sound upon bottoming out due to their nylon bottom housings. Therefore, while the overall sound and feel during actuation may vary, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing provide a foundational aspect that remains constant across both switches. This balance ensures that users can tailor their typing experience according to their preference, whether they lean towards a brighter sound or a more muted and rounded auditory profile.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we see some notable differences in their actuation forces. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Quinn has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams. This means that the Everfree Cedar is the lighter option between the two, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Quinn offers a more substantial push feel, which may appeal to those who favor a heavier switch for a more tactile typing experience. Regarding the bottom out force, the Quinn’s is specified at 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar remains unknown. If both switches had the same bottom out force, users could expect similar feedback when fully depressing the switch, but the Quinn provides a defined force that contributes to its tactile profile. Overall, the Everfree Cedar is likely more comfortable for prolonged use due to its lighter actuation force, while the Quinn is suited for those who enjoy a heavier, more substantial feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, a notable distinction arises. The Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Quinn features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Everfree Cedar offers a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, which can provide a more reassuring tactile feedback for users who prefer a hearty feel. On the other hand, the Quinn, with its shorter travel distance, may offer more responsiveness and quicker actuation, catering to gamers and those who favor rapid key presses. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for depth versus responsiveness—go for the Everfree Cedar if you appreciate a deeper feel, or opt for the Quinn if you favor a quicker response.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 switches are known for delivering a satisfying, poppy sound profile, providing an engaging auditory experience without being overly harsh. This makes them appealing for users who prefer a more subtle yet enjoyable sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switches stand out for their unique sound characteristics, featuring a deep, resonant quality that adds depth and richness to each keystroke. They produce a combination of clacky and bassy sounds, allowing for a bright, sharp auditory response but also an immersive experience that can be described as both clean and sharp. The interplay between these sound profiles suggests that users may favor the Everfree Cedar for a less pronounced auditory experience, while the Quinn offers a more dynamic sound presence in their keyboard setup.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is recognized for smooth and reliable performance, enabling a fluid typing experience that many users find appealing. However, the specifics of its tactile response are not detailed, leaving some aspects of its feel open to interpretation. Conversely, the Gateron Quinn tactile switches present a pronounced tactile feedback through their snappy and polished characteristics. Users can expect a lively, bouncy sensation with a refined, effortless touch, making each keystroke feel engaging and responsive. This distinct tactile quality enhances the typing experience, providing a clear separation between each actuation while ensuring comfort during long typing sessions.
In summary, the Gateron Everfree Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch present two distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Everfree Cedar offers a pleasant and subtle sound experience with a smooth feel, while the Quinn switches stand out with their resonant sound profile and lively, tactile feedback. For users looking for an engaging typing experience, the Quinn may be preferable, while those who value smooth operation without excessive auditory feedback might lean toward the Everfree Cedar. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience based on their unique tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth, seamless experience with a satisfying auditory pop, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent option. This switch's focus on reliability and smoothness makes it ideal for those who engage in extensive typing or gaming marathons, where a consistent feel can enhance comfort over prolonged use. On the other hand, if you crave tactile feedback and a rich auditory experience, the Quinn switch is your go-to. The medium-heavy bottom-out force combined with its unique sound profile—featuring both clacking and bassy tones—delivers an immersive typing experience that many users find enjoyable and engaging. In essence, if you're looking for a more pronounced tactile sensation and appreciate a character-filled sound, opt for the Quinn. Alternatively, if you desire smoothness and ease of use, the Everfree Cedar will serve you well. Choose based on the qualities that matter most to you, whether that’s auditory richness or a fluid typing experience.
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