Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, players and typists alike often find themselves weighing the merits of various options. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Swift are two linear switches that each offer unique attributes, catering to different user preferences. The Everfree Cedar, hailing from Gateron’s renowned sub-brand, presents a polished and snappy experience, making it a cost-effective choice for those who prioritize smooth and reliable performance with a satisfying poppy sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is distinguished by its deeper sound profile, produced by its full nylon housing, and features a remarkably silky smoothness that, combined with an easy-to-press 42g actuation force, makes it appealing to users who enjoy a lighter touch with a more nuanced auditory feedback. Both switches cater to different aesthetics and functionality, encouraging users to reflect on their typing or gaming 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Swift, two distinct approaches to sound profile and resonance become evident. The EF Cedar features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer composition that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material not only enhances the clarity of the acoustics but also improves light transmission for RGB lighting effects, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy a visually vibrant keyboard experience. In contrast, the Swift employs a nylon top housing, which is traditionally associated with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the EF Cedar's top housing provides a crisp, clear sound ideal for highlighting RGB illumination, the Swift offers a sound that is warmer and more muted.
On the bottom housing front, both the Everfree (EF) Cedar and HMX Swift use nylon, a material recognized for its ability to create a fuller sound due to its softness and sound absorption properties. This similarity means they share a common ground when it comes to the overall sound profile produced when a key is bottomed out. Consequently, users can expect a consistent auditory experience in terms of depth and balance from both switches when they are pressed down. However, since the top housings are different, the impact of the material choice is accentuated when the key is released. The EF Cedar's polycarbonate top housing creates a high-clarity sound when letting go of a key, while the Swift's nylon top makes for a smoother, gentler release. Thus, the contrasting top housing materials yield differing experiences that can significantly shape user preference.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials leads to unique sound dynamics and tactile feedback in both switches. While the EF Cedar aims for a bright and sharp auditory experience with its polycarbonate top housing, the HMX Swift seeks to deliver warmth and depth with its nylon top. Despite their differences in upper housing, the similarity in their lower housings means that the foundational audio quality—specifically the roundness and fullness—remains integral to both switches' character. Therefore, users should consider not only the preferred sound profiles and aesthetic qualities but also how the interplay of housing materials can influence their typing experience. The distinctive sound and feedback produced by both switches make them appealing options for different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, significant differences in actuation force become apparent. The Everfree Cedar has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, making it a heavier switch, while the Swift features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This difference means that typists who favor lighter switches for increased comfort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons may prefer the Swift. However, the bottom-out force for the Everfree Cedar is unknown, whereas the Swift has a bottom-out force of 50 grams, indicating it provides a firmer feel when keys are fully pressed down. Thus, while both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, the Everfree Cedar's heavier actuation suggests a more substantial typing experience, while the Swift's lighter actuation and known bottom-out force cater to those who enjoy less resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Everfree Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Swift features a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. For those who prioritize responsiveness and quicker key presses, the Gateron Everfree Cedar may be the preferable choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, gamers or typists who favor a more substantial key press with a deeper feel might lean towards the HMX Swift, as its longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences regarding key responsiveness versus deeper key travel.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 has a satisfying, poppy sound profile that many users appreciate for its warmth and smoothness. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch features a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housing, offering a contrast to the more high-pitched and sharper characteristics seen in some other switches. The difference in sound quality can largely depend on factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used, so while the Everfree may produce a more pronounced pop, the Swift's richer tones can be more immersive.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch stands out for its snappy responsiveness, thanks to its design that may include longer or dual-staged springs. This results in a polished typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced friction. Conversely, the HMX Swift switch offers a notably easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force due to its 42g actuation force, which makes typing effortless and reduces finger fatigue over long sessions. Additionally, users may experience a feathery touch with the Swift, further enhancing comfort during use. The combination of its light actuation and bouncy feedback creates a lively and enjoyable typing experience.
In summary, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and HMX Swift linear switches provide unique advantages, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Everfree offers a poppy sound with snappy and polished feel, making it a reliable choice for users seeking vibrancy in their keystrokes. Meanwhile, the Swift presents a deeper sound profile with an exceptionally gentle and creamy typing experience, perfect for those prioritizing ease and comfort. Depending on your specific needs in performance, sound, or typing feel, both switches can yield satisfying results, though they cater to slightly different preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Swift linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a switch that offers a snappy and polished typing experience, the Everfree Cedar might be the ideal choice for you. Its responsive feel and satisfying sound profile make it great for typing tasks where feedback and performance are essential, particularly in a more budget-friendly package. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother, almost feathery typing experience, the HMX Swift is likely to be more up your alley. With its low actuation force and deeper sound profile, this switch excels in long typing sessions, providing comfort and reducing finger fatigue, making it a solid option for gaming or other extended use scenarios. In the end, your decision should align with what aspects of the typing experience you prioritize, whether that’s a crisp and lively feel or a softer and buttery touch.
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