Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Huano Sakura both present enticing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The Everfree Cedar excels with its smooth and reliable performance, providing a poppy yet satisfying sound profile that adds a unique character to each keystroke while remaining an affordable choice within Gateron's lineup. Conversely, the Huano Sakura switches are designed for those who prefer a feather-light touch, complemented by medium acoustics that make them particularly appealing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. While both switches cater to linear switch aficionados, their distinct characteristics—cost-effectiveness versus light tactile response—offer different advantages depending on user preferences. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Huano Sakura switches employ distinct materials for their top housings but share a common construction choice for their bottoms. The Everfree Cedar utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is celebrated for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it aesthetically appealing for users who want visually striking keyboard setups. In contrast, the Sakura features a top housing made from POK (polyketone), which is known for its smoothness and a slightly higher coefficient of friction. While both materials aim to foster a unique auditory experience, polycarbonate focuses on clarity and brightness, whereas POK emphasizes smooth action and durability in performance.
On the other hand, both the Everfree Cedar and the Huano Sakura utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a shared characteristic that significantly influences their sound profiles. Nylon is recognized for creating a fuller and rounded sound, as it absorbs more sound waves than harder plastics. This shared use of nylon results in deeper and more resonant bottom-out sounds across both switch types, resulting in a consistent tactile experience. Therefore, when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar auditory experience stemming from the nylon bottom housing, even though the top housing contributes contrasting sonic qualities.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings results in unique sound profiles, yet they retain certain overlapping characteristics due to their similar nylon constructions. While the Everfree Cedar’s polycarbonate top provides a crisp and resonant sound on release, the POK top of the Sakura may yield a smoother feel, both of which can be complemented by the rounded, fuller sound of the nylon bottoms. This nuanced interaction between top and bottom materials illustrates how the choice of housing can influence the overall typing experience, allowing keyboard enthusiasts to moderate their key feel and sound to personal preferences. Users looking for robust auditory experiences might gravitate toward either switch based on their top housing material while enjoying the consistent nylon sound profile common to both.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The EF Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it significantly heavier than the Sakura's 35 grams actuation force. This difference means that the EF Cedar will require more effort to press down, which may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the EF Cedar is unavailable, preventing a direct comparison in that area. In contrast, the Sakura's bottom out force is 45 grams, confirming that it is indeed lighter overall and likely more comfortable for prolonged use, suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. Therefore, users looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Huano Sakura, while those who enjoy a firmer feedback might gravitate towards the heavier Gateron Everfree.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this aspect. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This equality in travel distance means that both switches will provide the same feel in terms of key press depth, allowing for a consistent experience across different keyboards utilizing these switches.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 is characterized by a satisfying, poppy sound profile that many users find enjoyable. This pleasant acoustic quality is attributed to its reliable performance, which enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch offers medium acoustics, resulting in a feather-light touch that is designed for comfort during extended typing sessions. While both switches maintain a relatively quiet operation typical of linear types, the Everfree Cedar leans towards a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Sakura's softer, subtler sound.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar provides a smooth and steady keystroke that is supremely reliable, appealing to those who prefer a consistent typing experience without any tactile bumps. The Huano Sakura, on the other hand, also provides a smooth experience but is distinctive for its feather-light touch, making it particularly user-friendly for marathon typing sessions. This subtle difference in actuation force can result in varying typing speeds and comfort levels, with the Sakura potentially allowing for a quicker response while typing.
In summary, while both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Huano Sakura linear switches offer smooth linear characteristics, they cater to slightly different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Everfree Cedar delivers a poppy sound that can enhance the enjoyment of typing, alongside a steady keystroke, whereas the Sakura emphasizes a light touch suited for lengthy typing periods with more subdued acoustics. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on whether one prioritizes a more pronounced auditory feedback or a lightweight, comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you're seeking a smooth and cost-effective option that offers a satisfying, poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar may be the best fit for you. This switch excels in delivering consistent performance, making it a great choice for casual users who appreciate a reliable feel during daily tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light touch and are looking for a switch suited for extended typing sessions, the Huano Sakura is likely the better option. Its medium acoustics create a more subdued sound experience, and the lighter actuation can help reduce finger fatigue during long hours of work or gaming. Therefore, consider your typing habits and comfort level when deciding; the Everfree Cedar leans towards a more traditional feel, while the Sakura delivers a lighter, more effortless experience.
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