Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches, both options stand out for their unique characteristics suited to different typing experiences. The Everfree Cedar, a product of Gateron's reputable sub-brand, is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, coupled with a satisfying poppy sound profile, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking an enjoyable typing experience without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 is renowned for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, which appeals to a broad audience of users, from enthusiasts to professionals, thanks to its exceptional comfort and precision. While both switches offer distinct advantages, the Everfree Cedar leans towards providing an engaging auditory experience, whereas the Sky V3 prioritizes a balanced feel across various typing styles. 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
40g
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
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Dareu Sky V3 share notable similarities in their housing materials that influence both the acoustic and tactile experience of the switches. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, high-pitched sound profile that many enthusiasts prefer for its clarity and resonance. The inherent qualities of polycarbonate as a stiffer plastic allow for a more distinct sound when keystrokes are released, making these switches ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, their clear housings not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the switches but also make them particularly suited for RGB lighting applications, as the translucency allows light to pass through beautifully.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is crafted from nylon, a material known for its unique sound properties. This choice leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile during key presses, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Consequently, while both the EF Cedar and the Sky V3 deliver similar auditory characteristics in their top housings, the nylon bottom housing tends to soften the overall experience with a duller, rounder sound. This combination allows for a well-rounded acoustic response, where the high-pitched clarity from the top seamlessly blends with the smooth tonal quality from the bottom.
The interplay between the two housing materials significantly influences the overall typing experience. While the polycarbonate top provides a crisp sound on release, giving a sharp response, the nylon bottom helps to dampen impacts and enrich the sound on bottoming out. Therefore, even though both switches share identical materials at the top and bottom, the nuances in sound and feel can lead to a distinctive typing experience. Understanding that the qualities of each housing contribute differently to the keystroke experience is crucial for users looking to maximize their enjoyment of these switches. For users interested in recreating a similar sound profile, utilizing both nylon and polycarbonate in their builds will yield comparable auditory results, regardless of the specific switch model.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Sky V3 is lighter at 40 grams. This suggests that the Everfree Cedar will provide a more substantial push feel, which may appeal to users looking for a heavier typing experience, whereas the lighter Sky V3 might be more suitable for extended usage, such as long work periods or gaming sessions, due to its lower resistance. Both switches, however, have unknown bottom out forces, limiting our ability to draw further comparisons in that regard. Overall, those who favor a lighter switch should opt for the Dareu Sky V3, while those who prefer a more robust feel would likely gravitate towards the Gateron Everfree Cedar.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have distinct travel distances that cater to different user preferences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the Sky V3 has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns more closely with traditional switch specifications. This difference highlights a key contrast in their designs: gamers and users seeking quicker responsiveness might prefer the Cedar's shorter travel distance for its potential for faster key presses, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial feel and depth may favor the Sky V3’s longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether one values speed or the traditional tactile experience.
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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is known for its satisfying, poppy sound profile, which adds a lively auditory experience while typing. This quality is likely enhanced by the smoothness and reliability of the switch itself, making each keystroke feel impactful. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 features a more neutral sound signature, aiming for a balance suitable for various environments, whether you're using it at home or work. This switch has a subdued acoustics that results in a dampened sound when pressed, making it less intrusive than many louder switches while still providing feedback. Therefore, while both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Everfree is more vibrant and poppy, whereas the Sky V3 is gentle and balanced.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar’s characteristics are not explicitly described, but one can expect the smooth operation typical of Gateron's linear switches, which facilitates a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is categorized as having a mild feel, making it approachable and gentle for all types of typists. This mildness allows it to appeal to a broad audience, from beginners to experienced users, by offering a balanced tactile response that encourages effortless typing. Thus, the Everfree likely provides a smooth, linear experience, while the Sky V3 leans into a more gentle and mild approach.
In summary, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch provides a poppy sound and a smooth feel, making it a gratifying option for users looking for lively feedback during typing. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V3 brings a neutral and subdued sound with a mild tactile experience, catering to those seeking comfort in their typing without excessive auditory distractions. Both switches aim to deliver pleasant experiences but target different preferences; hence users can choose according to their specific sound and feel inclinations. If you’re looking for a lively auditory profile, the Everfree may be ideal, while the Sky V3 is more suited for a nuanced and versatile overall experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and use cases. If you're looking for a cost-effective switch that provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a poppy sound profile, the Everfree Cedar might be the right choice for you. Its performance is reliable and caters well to users who enjoy an engaging auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound signature with a balance of comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 is an excellent option. This switch is especially suitable if you require versatility for both intensive work tasks and casual typing, as its mild characteristics appeal to a wider audience without being overwhelming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not just your typing style but also the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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