Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Twilight both stand out as solid linear options, each catering to different preferences among users. The Everfree (EF) Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a cost-effective switch that delivers a poppy sound profile, characteristic of Gateron’s trusted design. In contrast, the HMX Twilight offers a slightly quieter typing experience thanks to its extended 3.85mm travel distance while still maintaining the signature clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. While the Everfree is ideal for users prioritizing an engaging auditory feedback without breaking the bank, the Twilight may be more suitable for those who prefer a subtler sound yet desire a tactile typing experience. 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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Twilight switches, the differences in their top housings stand out dramatically. The Everfree Cedar utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile—qualities that can greatly enhance the auditory experience of typing. Its stiffer composition allows for a clearer resonance that complements the aesthetics of RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate effectively showcases these color effects. In contrast, the HMX Twilight opts for a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its capacity to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The softer nature of nylon provides a darker tone, contributing to a soundscape that is more muted compared to the Everfree Cedar’s pronouncement.
Despite the disparity in the top housing materials, both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This similarity creates an interesting balance in their sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing in both switches generates a deeper and rounder sound signature, firmly impacting the bottom-out feel when a key is pressed. As such, while the top housing configurations might dictate the tonal clarity and brightness during key release, the shared nylon bottom housing helps unify their aural characteristics, ensuring a satisfying result in both typing experiences. Therefore, both switches are equipped to deliver a smooth and pleasant tactile response, albeit expressed differently through their respective top housing materials.
Ultimately, the differences between the Everfree Cedar and the HMX Twilight reflect a juxtaposition in design philosophy. The polycarbonate top of the Everfree Cedar is tailored for those who desire a more pronounced sound experience with sharper notes, likely appealing to enthusiasts of linear and clicky switch types. Meanwhile, the nylon top of the HMX Twilight caters to users who prefer a softer sound profile and a subtler tactile feedback. However, since both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistency in the rounded sound and tactile response that nylon provides, ensuring that regardless of the top housing material, both switches maintain a satisfying experience during use.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Everfree Cedar has an actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a firmer resistance required to trigger a keystroke, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to activate and thus more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unspecified, the Twilight has a bottom out force of 50 grams, further emphasizing its lighter feel overall. Consequently, users desiring a heavier switch experience would lean towards the Everfree Cedar, while those who favor a lighter switch would find the HMX Twilight more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, the two exhibit a notable difference. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Twilight offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Cedar switch has a shorter travel distance, which could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances typically facilitate faster key presses. On the other hand, the Twilight's longer travel distance might provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience when typing or gaming. Therefore, the choice between these two switches largely hinges on individual preferences regarding key responsiveness versus depth.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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 switch produces a satisfying, poppy sound profile that can enhance the overall typing experience with its crisp feedback. This engaging auditory response makes it an appealing choice for those who appreciate pronounced acoustic cues while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch, with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, tends to produce a slightly quieter sound while retaining the characteristic clacky profile associated with HMX switches. This subtle difference means that while the Twilight may be less pronounced in its sound compared to the Cedar, both switches possess unique auditory qualities that can contribute to an enjoyable typing environment, influenced further by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it a pleasure to type on for extended periods. This switch is designed to provide consistent actuation, ensuring that each keystroke feels responsive and effortless. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch, while also smooth in its operation, focuses on an extended travel distance that can provide a different tactile experience. This added travel may result in a more gradual key press, appealing to users who enjoy a leisurely typing rhythm. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying feel, but their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences within the linear switch enthusiasts.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and HMX Twilight linear switches offer unique experiences that cater to varying preferences. The Cedar shines with its poppy sound profile and smooth feel, ideal for those who enjoy pronounced audio feedback during typing, while the Twilight presents a quieter option with a longer travel distance and clacky nuances for a more mellow experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasurable typing experience, and depending on your auditory and tactile preferences, either choice can yield satisfying results tailored to your style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches and HMX Twilight linear switches ultimately comes down to your priorities and preferences in typing experience. If you're looking for a smooth and quiet experience combined with a satisfying sound profile, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a lightweight feel and are budget-conscious. These switches excel in environments where subtlety matters, making them suitable for both casual typing and professional settings. However, if you prefer a more pronounced acoustic feedback during your typing sessions and don’t mind a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the HMX Twilight could be your go-to option. With its extended travel distance and clacky sound traits, the Twilight switches offer a tactile experience that many gamers and typists find invigorating. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages, so consider what aspects matter most to you—comfort, sound, responsiveness—before making your final decision.
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