Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options emerge: the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HC Studio Roselle, both of which are exemplars of linear switch design. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it an affordable choice within Gateron's sub-brand lineup. This switch not only boasts a satisfying, poppy sound profile, but also ensures a consistent typing experience, appealing to those who prioritize functionality without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Roselle stands out with its unique material blend that inherently delivers an impressively smooth feel, devoid of any need for additional lubrication. Its low-pitched, subtle sound signature adds an ethereal quality to the typing experience, making it an intriguing option for users seeking a distinctive tactile sensation. While both switches embody the characteristics of linear designs, their different sound profiles and feelings may cater to varying preferences among typists. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HC Studio Roselle differ not only in their materials but also in the resulting sound profiles produced by their respective housings. The Everfree Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The material's stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize clear auditory feedback, especially in setups utilizing RGB lighting. In contrast, the Roselle employs a POM top housing that results in a deeper and more muted sound. POM, while still a high-quality material, does not project sound in the same vibrant manner as polycarbonate, indicating that users of the Roselle might appreciate a more subdued typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the differences become even more pronounced. The Everfree Cedar's nylon bottom housing, a staple material in the keyboard switch industry, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the relatively muted quality of the Roselle's POM bottom housing. Nylon's softer properties enable it to absorb sound more effectively, allowing for a rounder and more engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Roselle’s POM bottom housing also produces a unique sound, albeit leaning towards the muted side, which means that the character of the bottom-out sound might be less impactful than that of the Everfree Cedar.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, the combination of top and bottom housing materials is essential in defining their sound profiles. With the Everfree Cedar's polycarbonate top enhancing the clarity and brightness, paired with a nylon bottom delivering a fuller tone, users will experience a well-rounded auditory environment that emphasizes both the sound when key presses are released and when bottoms are hit. Conversely, the Roselle's pairing of POM housing on both the top and bottom creates a cohesive but more subdued sound signature, lending itself to a more muted typing experience. Thus, depending on the effect users seek, the difference in materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of each switch, even if they both aim to deliver pleasing auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, we can observe notable differences in actuation force that influence their respective typing experiences. The Everfree Cedar requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Roselle is lighter with an actuation force of just 45 grams. This lighter actuation force in the Roselle may appeal to users who prefer fatigue-free typing during extended sessions, making it ideal for both work and casual gaming. Meanwhile, the Cedar switch's heavier actuation force might cater to those who favor a more substantial feel, providing greater tactile feedback during use. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, while the Roselle has a bottom out force of 52 grams. Thus, while the Everfree Cedar is heavier regarding actuation force, the Roselle offers a medium-light bottom out experience, contributing to a softer keystroke overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will hinge on personal preference for typing feel and intended use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, resulting in similar actuation performance and keystroke feel. Since both switches share the same travel distance, enthusiasts can enjoy uniformity in their typing experience regardless of their choice, making them equally suitable for various applications such as gaming or typing.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 linear switch is characterized by a satisfying poppy tone. This gives it a lively and more dynamic auditory experience compared to more subdued switches. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch presents a deeper, low-pitched sound that is often described as bassy. This low-frequency signature creates a rich audio backdrop, resulting in a sound that is both mellow and grounding during use. While the Everfree switch offers an energetic sound, the Roselle's bass-heavy qualities may appeal to those who favor a more subdued yet rich auditory experience when typing.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is noted for its smooth operation, making it a reliable choice for users. However, specifics about its tactile feedback are less detailed. On the other hand, the Roselle switch shines with its frictionless design, providing an incredibly smooth and almost effortless typing experience. This switch delivers a fluid keystroke without noticeable resistance, while also being described as mild, making it approachable for users of all experience levels. This combination of characteristics contributes to a distinctly elegant typing feel that can enhance productivity and comfort.
In summary, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer compelling but distinct experiences for users. The Everfree excels with a lively, poppy sound, while the Roselle boasts a rich, deep auditory signature. Although the feel of the Everfree is smooth, the Roselle surpasses it with an effortlessly frictionless typing experience. Overall, those seeking a vibrant sound might prefer the Everfree, while users looking for a more refined auditory and tactile experience may gravitate towards the Roselle. Ultimately, both switches can deliver an enjoyable experience, but personal preference will play a significant role in the choice between the two.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HC Studio Roselle linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you seek affordability and a smooth, dependable typing experience, the Everfree Cedars may be the way to go. They offer a satisfying, poppy sound profile, making them a good match for casual use and for those who prioritize cost-effective solutions without sacrificing performance. On the other hand, if you find yourself leaning toward a more luxurious typing sensation, the Roselle switches stand out with their frictionless feel and ethereal smoothness, providing an exquisite experience that is perfect for long hours of typing or gaming. The Roselle's low-pitched and bass-heavy sound signature further adds an elegant auditory dimension that might appeal to those who appreciate a richer acoustic experience. Therefore, your choice should align with your preferences for sound, feel, and your intended use—whether you prioritize a reliable, economical switch or desire a premium, smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, catering to different styles and sensibilities, so consider what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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