Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch that fits your typing style and preferences, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both offer distinct advantages despite being linear switches. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a cost-effective option that doesn’t compromise on quality. With Gateron’s proprietary mold, this switch produces a satisfying, poppy sound profile that can enhance the overall typing experience, ideal for those who appreciate subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver stands out with its all-POM construction and short travel distance, allowing for lightning-fast actuation that's perfect for gamers or those who prioritize speed in their typing. Known for its thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Smoothie Silver offers a feather-light touch that can feel effortless under your fingers. Both switches present compelling reasons for selection based on personal 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, we notice significant differences in composition and sound profile. The Everfree (EF) Cedar utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it particularly suitable for setups that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound experience. This difference arises from the inherent properties of POM, which, while still producing a unique sound, does not have the same sharpness as polycarbonate.
Examining the bottom housings reveals an interesting contrast as well. The Everfree (EF) Cedar is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, celebrated for its classic characteristics, delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile through its softer material. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Smoothie Silver’s bottom housing also employs POM, creating a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards a more muted depth similar to that of the nylon housing in the Cedar. Consequently, both switches share a similarity in that their bottom houses contribute to a full and rounded sound experience, although they achieve it through different materials.
The interaction of these materials can affect the overall typing experience when using the switches. The top and bottom housings work in tandem, with the characteristics of each affecting the sound and feel during a key press. For the Everfree (EF) Cedar, the polycarbonate top housing amplifies the crispness during release, while the nylon bottom enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a balanced sound profile. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver combines the POM top and bottom housings, producing a more muted sound throughout the key press cycle. However, despite their distinct materials, both switches deliver richness in the auditory experience, meaning that users can find enjoyment in their unique sound signatures, whether they prefer the sharper clarity of the Cedar or the deeper, more subdued timbre of the Smoothie Silver.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Everfree Cedar requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Smoothie Silver is lighter at 45 grams. This means that for users who prefer a softer touch and potentially longer typing sessions, the Smoothie Silver may be more suitable. However, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might appreciate the firmer feel of the Everfree Cedar. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for both switches is unavailable, preventing a definitive comparison in that aspect. Nonetheless, the clear distinction in actuation force suggests that the Smoothie Silver is the lighter option, making it advantageous for users seeking comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, a clear distinction arises. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Smoothie Silver measures a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.4 mm. For those who favor a more responsive feel, the Smoothie Silver may provide a quicker actuation point due to its shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers for swift response times. Conversely, the Everfree (EF) Cedar, with its greater depth, might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial key press and less abrupt feedback. Thus, choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired typing 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 Gateron Smoothie Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch delivers a satisfying, poppy sound profile that many users find enjoyable and engaging during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch produces a thocky sound that many enthusiasts appreciate for its depth and richness. While both switches have distinct auditory experiences, the Everfree Cedar leans towards a livelier sound, while the Smoothie Silver provides a more mellow and substantial auditory feedback. It's important to remember that the specific sound can be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps, which may enhance or dampen these characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is noted for its smooth and reliable performance, which can provide a satisfying typing experience. Its linear nature ensures minimal resistance during key presses, allowing for a consistent and fluid motion. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver features a feather-light touch alongside its all-POM construction that contributes to unparalleled smoothness. This combination of light actuation force and heightened smoothness makes it feel incredibly responsive, which is especially suited for rapid typing or gaming. While both switches emphasize smoothness, the Everfree Cedar offers a more traditional experience, whereas the Smoothie Silver caters to those who prefer lightning-fast actuation and a lightly tactile engagement.
In conclusion, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch stands out with its satisfying poppy sound and reliable smoothness, making it a compelling choice for a versatile typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is characterized by its thocky sound and feather-light touch, catering to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While each switch offers unique qualities, both provide an enjoyable linear experience, satisfying different preferences in acoustics and tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal taste, as both switches promise smooth operation and solid performance in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are looking for a reliable, smooth typing experience that delivers a satisfying sound profile—characterized by a poppy tone—the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice. It's ideal for everyday typing, gaming, and office work where you appreciate a consistent feel without any distracting noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch designed for speed with a focus on rapid actuation, the Smoothie Silver is the way to go. Its short travel distance and unparalleled smoothness cater to high-paced gaming and situations where every millisecond counts. The thocky sound and feather-light touch make it an attractive option for those who want a more tactile yet quiet typing experience. Overall, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize the satisfying sound and feel of the Everfree Cedar or the Lightning-fast response of the Smoothie Silver for your specific typing or gaming needs.
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