Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Everfree (EF) Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, providing a satisfying sound profile that balances poppiness with a cost-effective design. This makes it an attractive option for users who appreciate a dependable switch without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are distinguished by their exceptionally bright and clacky sound, along with a light touch that delivers vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. This energetic response makes the Salt Ice ideal for those who thrive on quick, responsive keystrokes in high-paced environments. While each switch has its strengths, the Everfree Cedar is perfect for those seeking reliable performance, whereas the Salt Ice caters to users who desire an engaging and lively typing experience. 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
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, one notable similarity lies in the material used for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance in sound production. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes these switches particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, allowing for vibrant illumination to shine through the clear tops. This aesthetic appeal is an important consideration for many users who value visual enhancements in their keyboard aesthetics.
However, the bottom housing materials of these two switches diverge significantly, leading to different acoustic qualities. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a nylon bottom housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound, ultimately creating a duller and rounder audio experience. In contrast, the Salt Ice employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well. The result of this choice is a continuation of the sharper sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate, creating a more consistent sound across the entire switch. This disparity means that while the top sound profiles are similar due to the polycarbonate construction, the bottom-out sounds will vary between the two switches, influenced by their respective materials.
The different bottom housing materials of the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Jerrzi Salt Ice ultimately lead to distinguishable tactile and acoustic experiences. With the nylon bottom of the Everfree (EF) Cedar, users can expect a fuller sound that may be more desirable for those seeking a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Salt Ice, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, maintains a crisper sound that aligns with the sound profile of the top housing. As a result, players or typists might choose between the two based on their preference for either a softer, more resonant tone or a sharper and more defined auditory feedback during typing. For those looking for a hybrid experience, where the clarity of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings is desired, the Salt Ice would provide a more uniform sound representation.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the key difference lies in their actuation forces. The Everfree Cedar has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Salt Ice is lighter at 45 grams. This means that for users who prefer a softer touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Salt Ice would likely be the more comfortable choice. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Everfree Cedar. However, both switches have unspecified bottom out forces, making a direct comparison in that regard impossible. Overall, users will find their experience different based on the actuation force, with the Salt Ice catering to those who favor a lighter switch and the Everfree Cedar appealing to those who seek a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Everfree (EF) Cedar boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Salt Ice features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means the Everfree Cedar offers a deeper key press, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice may provide quicker response times, making it a favorable choice for gamers who prioritize rapid key actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Salt Ice would be your go-to, while those who appreciate a heartier depth in their key presses might lean towards the Everfree Cedar.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 switch produces a satisfying, poppy sound profile that many users find enjoyable. This characteristic makes it a great choice for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is noted for its exceptionally bright and clacky sound, giving it a more vibrant and energetic auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities, catering to different preferences: the Cedar for a smoother and more subtle sound, and the Salt Ice for those who enjoy a louder and more pronounced acoustic feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch delivers smooth and reliable performance, allowing for a consistent typing experience without bumps. This makes it appealing for users seeking a straightforward linear feel. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch stands out with its light touch and vibrant feedback, resulting in an effortless actuation that enhances responsiveness. This dynamic feel is particularly prized by typists and gamers who want a more engaging tactile experience, setting the Salt Ice apart in terms of how it responds under fingers.
In summary, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer distinct sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cedar provides a smooth and poppy sound with a consistent typing experience, while the Salt Ice excels with its bright and clacky auditory presence, paired with a light and responsive touch. Depending on your personal taste, either switch can deliver satisfying results; if you appreciate a lively, energetic typing experience, the Salt Ice is an excellent choice, whereas for a more subdued and reliable performance, the Everfree Cedar is highly commendable.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value smooth, reliable performance with a satisfying auditory profile, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is an excellent choice. Its cost-effectiveness and reputation for dependable action make it suitable for both work and casual use, providing a comfortable experience for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer an energetic and responsive typing feel with bright, clacky sound characteristics, the Salt Ice switch could be more your style. Its lively feedback and effortless actuation cater to gamers or users who enjoy a more dynamic keystroke. By considering the atmosphere you want to create, whether it’s steady and efficient or vibrant and expressive, you can make an informed decision that enhances your overall typing experience.
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