Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options among enthusiasts are the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX SU, both of which are linear switches known for their smooth keypresses. The Everfree (EF) Cedar stands out as a cost-effective choice within Gateron’s sub-brand, offering a satisfying, poppy sound profile that appeals to those seeking a blend of performance and affordability. In contrast, the HMX SU features a robust PA12 housing and a T5 stem, boasting a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that may attract users looking for a more understated auditory experience. While both switches deliver reliable performance and pleasant tactile feedback, their design elements cater to different preferences and budgets. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX SU switches present a fascinating contrast in their top housings, which profoundly influences their overall sound profile. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness. This material's clarity allows for a more resonant sound experience, particularly beneficial for setups with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects. In contrast, the HMX SU's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder acoustic experience. This fundamental difference in material characteristics results in distinct auditory experiences when typing on these switches.
Conversely, both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX SU use nylon for their bottom housings, which aligns their sound profiles to some extent. Both switches benefit from nylon’s sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience during key presses. The similar use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a consistent sound quality between the switches, emphasizing the impact of this soft material on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, while the top housings diverge significantly in sound characteristics, their shared nylon bottom housings help create a common foundation in audio output, leading to a synchronized response when actuating the keys.
In summary, when comparing the Everfree (EF) Cedar and HMX SU switches, one observes how the choice of top housing material uniquely shapes the sound profiles of each switch. The crisper, more resonant notes afforded by the polycarbonate of the Everfree (EF) Cedar contrast sharply with the rounder tones produced by the nylon top housing of the HMX SU. However, both switches utilize the same nylon for their bottom housings, allowing for a richer typing experience that is consistent across both models. This duality showcases how the interplay between different materials can yield varied acoustic results, affirming the importance of both top and bottom housing attributes in the overall design of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch present a contrast in their actuation forces, but there is a notable difference in their bottom out forces as well. The Everfree Cedar features an actuation force of 55 grams, which means it requires a stronger push to register a keystroke compared to the HMX SU's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference suggests that the Everfree Cedar may provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feedback while typing or gaming. However, the Everfree Cedar lacks a specified bottom out force, making it hard to compare that aspect directly; conversely, the HMX SU has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it does offer a satisfying resistance when pressed fully down. Overall, the HMX SU is the lighter switch, which may be preferred for prolonged typing sessions, while the Everfree Cedar's heavier actuation force may attract users seeking a more robust feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they have an identical distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. As a result, users can expect a similar feel and performance from both switches, providing a consistent typing experience without noticeable differences in depth during operation. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users who prefer either switch will not sacrifice sensitivity or responsiveness when transitioning between the two.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 linear switch offers a satisfying, poppy sound profile, which tends to make typists feel more engaged with their keystrokes. This sound can be quite appealing for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch presents a more subtle, relatively deep sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience that might be better suited for environments where noise is a concern. While these sound signatures are inherently different, it is essential to remember that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard, plate material, and keycap profile.
When it comes to feel, the EF Cedar switch is known for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a great choice for both typing and gaming. The linear action allows for a consistent experience from top to bottom, which can enhance typing speed and overall comfort. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a T5 stem, which typically provides a different tactile sensation. While the specific feel of the SU switch isn’t detailed, the combination of its PA12 housing and design aims to create a unique sensation, likely favoring a smooth and fluid typing experience as well.
In conclusion, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX SU linear switches both offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Everfree (EF) Cedar provides a more engaging auditory experience, while the HMX SU delivers a quieter, deeper sound. Similarly, both switches are designed to ensure a smooth typing experience, though the nuances in their feel may appeal to different users based on personal preference. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or subtlety in sound, as well as the tactile experience you desire while typing or gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you are looking for a smooth typing experience that provides a satisfying tactile response, the Everfree Cedar may be the ideal option. It is a cost-effective choice that promises reliable performance while delivering a poppy sound profile, making it great for both gaming and general typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a light touch with a more subdued yet rich sound, the HMX SU would be more suitable. With its added heft in the bottom-out force and the PA12 housing that contributes to its subtle sound profile, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more robust feedback while typing or gaming. In essence, your decision should be guided by whether you value a cost-effective, smooth switch or a more pronounced tactile experience accompanied by solid acoustics.
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