Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie both offer unique attributes that can cater to different typing preferences. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, presenting itself as a cost-effective choice from Gateron’s sub-brand and delivering a satisfying poppy sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Smoothie features an all-POM design that excels in providing a thocky sound signature alongside remarkable smoothness and a lightweight touch, making it an enticing option for users seeking an incredibly smooth typing experience without the premium price tag. Both switches offer linear characteristics, thus demanding consideration for various typing styles and user experiences. 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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie switches, the most notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is due in part to the material's stiffness, resulting in a clearer and more resonant acoustic quality. In contrast, the Smoothie's top housing is made of POM, which offers a deeper and more muted sound. This distinction suggests that users who prefer a crisp keystroke will find the Everfree Cedar more appealing, while those seeking a softer auditory experience may favor the Smoothie.
Despite the differences in their top housings, the bottom housing materials of both switches demonstrate some interesting similarities. The Everfree (EF) Cedar utilizes nylon, known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a fuller, deeper auditory experience. The Smoothie, on the other hand, also employs POM for its bottom housing, noted for its unique sound profile that similarly leans toward a muted and deeper tone. This means that while the top housings provide different acoustic characteristics, the nylon in the Cedar creates a specific resonance that contrasts with the muted qualities found in the Smoothie's POM. Consequently, the combination of materials influences the overall feel and sound when actuating and releasing the keys.
Ultimately, the mixed material approach of both switches means that users can achieve varying sound profiles depending on their preferences. The Everfree's polycarbonate top enhances the sound when releasing keys, while its nylon bottom contributes to a fuller sound when bottoming out. Conversely, the Smoothie's POM top retains some warmth and depth in sound, combining with its POM bottom to deliver a consistently muted experience. Therefore, while both switches may cater to different auditory preferences, their specific designs enable them to excel in unique ways, providing distinct but complementary experiences for typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches, there's a notable difference in their resistance. The Everfree Cedar requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Smoothie offers a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a more effortless typing experience may gravitate towards the Smoothie, as its 40-gram actuation force allows for longer typing sessions with less strain. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel under their fingers may prefer the Cedar with its heavier 55-gram force. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, which leaves some ambiguity regarding how they feel when pressed all the way down. However, given their actuation forces, the Everfree Cedar is clearly the heavier option, while the Smoothie is lighter, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance for both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is identical, measuring at 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar keypress experience with both switches, as they both travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. Consequently, the tactile feedback and overall actuation feel will be consistent across both switch types, allowing for a comparable typing or gaming experience. Since the travel distances are equal, there is no shorter or longer option between them.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences. The Everfree Cedar is reported to produce a satisfying, poppy sound profile, which can be engaging and lively during typing. In contrast, the Smoothie offers a low-pitched, thocky sound signature that is deeper and richer, reminiscent of a soft thud or a gentle knock with each keystroke. This results in a more subdued auditory experience, leaning towards satisfying yet understated. Overall, the Everfree Cedar might be more expressive, while the Smoothie leans toward a more hushed, thocky ambiance.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Everfree (EF) Cedar lacks a specific description, leaving its tactile qualities somewhat ambiguous. However, the Smoothie is celebrated for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. This means that typists can expect a seamless and effortless transition with each press, thanks to either the lubed design or the material choices that minimize resistance. Given that the Cedar's feel is not explicitly described, it may lack the refined smoothness that typists can enjoy with the Smoothie, leading to a more classic linear feel.
In conclusion, while both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie are designed for smooth performance, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Everfree Cedar presents a lively sound profile that might appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience, while the Smoothie provides a deeper, thocky sound that emphasizes subtlety and richness. In terms of feel, the Smoothie's creamy and buttery sensation surpasses the less defined characteristics of the Cedar, highlighting a preference for refined keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on whether one prioritizes sound or a nuanced typing experience; if you're after a budget-friendly option with a lively sound, the Everfree Cedar is worth considering, while the Smoothie will deliver superior smoothness and a satisfying thocky sound.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it's essential to think about your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you're seeking a reliable and budget-friendly option that offers a delightfully smooth and responsive experience, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice. It's designed for those who enjoy a poppy sound profile while maintaining reliable performance, making it suitable for general typing and everyday use. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, more satisfying auditory feedback with a thocky sound signature, the Smoothie would be more appropriate. Its buttery, creamy, and silky characteristics offer a premium typing experience that's especially appealing for heavy typists or gamers who value smoothness and sound quality. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on your preferences for sound and feel—opting for the Everfree Cedar for a smooth, cost-effective option, or the Smoothie if you're ready to enjoy a luxurious typing experience with a rich acoustic presence.
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