Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch is crucial. Two noteworthy options are the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), both linear switches that cater to varying user preferences. The Everfree Cedar stands out for its cost-effectiveness and reliable performance, using Gateron's trusted proprietary mold to provide a smooth, poppy sound profile that many find satisfying. In contrast, the Tomcat Heavy features Ly stems designed for an exceptionally smooth typing experience, accompanied by a resonant sound profile that delivers notable feedback. While the Everfree Cedar might appeal to those looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, the Tomcat Heavy could be the ideal choice for users who prioritize a silky touch and auditory pleasure. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99

$2.75 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share a key similarity in their top housing material, which is polycarbonate. This shared material leads to a distinctly sharper and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is acknowledged for its stiffness, which contributes to the clear resonance of sound when a key is pressed. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for users who plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual effect by allowing light to pass through effectively. Given that both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect a comparable auditory experience characterized by higher-pitched sounds, making them suitable for those who favor a more vibrant typing feedback.

In contrast, the bottom housing material diverges between the two models, with both utilizing nylon but creating differing auditory effects. The nylon bottom housing design in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer nature, which functions to absorb sound and generate a rounder acoustic response. This characteristic allows for a sense of warmth that contrasts with the crispness of the polycarbonate top. Since the bottom housing has a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound upon keystrokes, the combination of a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom in both switches creates a balanced sound experience. This harmonious pairing allows for an appreciation of the tactile feedback while typing, leading to distinctively satisfying auditory cues.

Ultimately, the differences between the two switches lie not just in auditory characteristics but also in the perception of sound based on the key press dynamics. While both switches share similar qualities in the top housing, producing a higher-pitched sound, the nylon bottom serves to create a rich, rounded sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a combination of sharpness upon actuation from the polycarbonate top, blended with a fuller sound from the nylon bottom. This interplay illustrates how different materials contribute uniquely to the overall typing experience, allowing both switches to satisfy varying preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 55 grams, which means they will provide a similar resistance when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out force differs significantly between the two; while the Everfree’s bottom out force is unavailable, the Tomcat has a bottom out force of 64 grams, indicating that it requires a greater force to press the switch all the way down. This difference suggests that the Tomcat offers a heavier overall feel, making it potentially less suitable for extended typing sessions for those who prefer lighter switches. Users who enjoy a stronger push feel might lean toward the Tomcat, while those who seek a lighter touch for long hours of use would benefit from the Everfree switch, especially if its bottom out characteristics were known and comparable. In summary, the Everfree offers a lighter experience in terms of actuation and the potential unknown of its bottom out, while the Tomcat caters to those who appreciate a medium-heavy tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch have identical travel distances of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same amount of switch travel with either option. As a result, both switches will provide a similar feel during typing or gaming, making them great choices for those who prefer a consistent linear response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is characterized by a satisfying, poppy sound profile that adds a pleasant auditory experience to your typing. This can contribute to a more enjoyable and lively typing atmosphere, especially when paired with a suitable keyboard. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provides a resonant sound profile, which may give it a deeper tone, potentially lending to a more impactful auditory feedback when typing. Both switches produce distinct sound signatures that can significantly be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used with them.

When exploring the feel of these switches, the Everfree (EF) Cedar provides a smooth and reliable performance that many users appreciate. This smooth action can lead to a more fluid typing experience, making it easier to rack up long typing sessions without fatigue. The Tomcat (Heavy) switch, with its Ly stems, is designed to offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience as well, suggesting that both switches prioritize a seamless keystroke. This shared emphasis on smoothness implies that users can expect a comfortable typing experience from either choice, although individual preferences may ultimately lead to different user satisfaction.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches shine in their respective qualities, offering distinct sound profiles and smooth feel that cater to varying tastes. While the Everfree (EF) Cedar is poppy in sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) delivers a resonant tone, ensuring that both provide unique auditory feedback. On the tactile side, both switches prioritize smoothness, leading to comfortable typing experiences. Therefore, regardless of which switch you choose, you're poised to enjoy a satisfying combination of sound and feel, tailored to your personal keyboard preference.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches largely depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth, reliable performance with a lighter touch, the Everfree Cedar may be your go-to option. Its cost-effectiveness combined with a satisfying poppy sound profile makes it ideal for casual typing or gaming where speed and ease of actuation are paramount. Conversely, if you enjoy a bit more resistance during keystrokes and are looking for a solid, medium-heavy feedback, the Tomcat (Heavy) would be an excellent fit. Its Ly stems provide a super smooth typing experience, making it suitable for users who prefer a more tactile engagement with their keyboard, coupled with a resonant sound profile that adds to the overall experience. Thus, your choice should be guided by whether you prefer lighter, faster keystrokes or a weightier, more deliberate typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar Linear

$2.99

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more