Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Speed Silver stand out as two exceptional linear options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a cost-effective choice for users seeking a satisfying and poppy sound profile while typing. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver excels in providing a fast and precise typing experience, thanks to its reduced travel distance and light-medium resistance, perfectly suited for gamers and typists who prioritize quick actuation and efficiency. Both switches offer unique benefits: the Everfree Cedar appeals to those who value a more tactile sound and consistent performance, while the Speed Silver is designed for speed enthusiasts looking for rapid responsiveness. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Speed Silver switches feature polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, enhances the sharper, higher-pitched sounds that users experience when typing. This material not only contributes to a crisper auditory feedback but is also aesthetically pleasing due to its translucency, making it suitable for RGB lighting applications. Both switches thus provide a visually appealing and acoustically vibrant experience, making them ideal for those who appreciate enhanced illumination and auditory performance from their mechanical keyboards.
When comparing the bottom housings of the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Speed Silver, both utilize nylon, a classic material known for its sound-absorbing properties. Unlike the upper housings, which create a sharp and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more rounded auditory experience. This contrast between the upper and lower housings means that while both switches share the same material characteristics for their top halves, they ensure a complementary acoustic profile when the bottom is engaged, producing a more dynamic range of sound.
In essence, despite being made from different combinations of housing materials, the fundamental acoustic characteristics of both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the TTC Speed Silver allow for a cohesive typing experience. The top polycarbonate housings deliver a bright, crisp sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housings contribute a softer, more muted depth on bottom-out. The synergy between these materials ultimately results in a balanced auditory experience, appealing to those who enjoy both the heard and felt aspects of typing, further confirming that both switches can yield similar results in overall sound and performance profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is heavier compared to the TTC Speed Silver's actuation force of 45 grams, making the Speed Silver the lighter option. However, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, while the Speed Silver has a defined bottom out force of 55 grams. This allows users to better gauge the feel of the Speed Silver as it provides a medium-light push, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Everfree Cedar may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you are looking for a lighter switch, the TTC Speed Silver is the better choice, while the Everfree Cedar caters to users seeking a firmer key feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the two differ, with the Everfree Cedar featuring a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for those who prefer quicker response times, the TTC Speed Silver may be the better choice due to its shorter distance, which can facilitate faster key presses. On the other hand, the Everfree Cedar’s longer travel distance might provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for users who appreciate a pronounced depth in their switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus key feel.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is characterized by a satisfying, poppy sound, making it an enjoyable auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch features a more neutral sound profile, striking a balance that allows it to be suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. While both switches produce distinct sounds, the Everfree's poppiness provides a lively atmosphere, whereas the Speed Silver's neutrality caters to users seeking a more subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar offers a smooth, reliable performance that many find appealing for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches boast a mild sensation, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a broad demographic. Additionally, the polished finish of the Speed Silver enhances its feel, resulting in reduced friction and a smoother key travel overall. While the Everfree may be more straightforward in its linearity, the Speed Silver combines mildness with a polished touch, catering to users who appreciate nuanced performance.
In summary, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and TTC Speed Silver switches provide unique qualities, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Everfree switch offers a more poppy sound and straightforward feel, while the Speed Silver strikes a neutral tone paired with a gently polished experience. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on your sound preference and tactile expectations, as both can deliver satisfying performance in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, the decision largely hinges on your specific typing preferences and intended use. If you value a smooth, reliable performance with a satisfying sound profile, the Everfree (EF) Cedar is an excellent choice; it’s ideal for casual typing and gaming where comfort and sound enjoy a bit more emphasis. Its performance makes it a great option for daily use, especially if you're someone who enjoys a quiet environment without overly pronounced feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver switch would serve you better. With its lighter actuation force and faster travel distance, it caters well to gamers and typists who require quick responses and a balanced feel. Its neutral sound profile also means it won't be disruptive whether at home or in the office. In summary, consider the Everfree Cedar for a smooth, satisfying typing experience, particularly for general use, while opting for the Speed Silver when you are in need of high responsiveness and a polished touch. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal comfort and usage context.
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