Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of linear switches against tactile options, leading to a personal choice that aligns with their typing or gaming preferences. The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is an excellent exemplar of linear switches, celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance paired with a satisfying, poppy sound profile. It offers a seamless keystroke experience, making it a fantastic choice for users who prioritize quiet, uninterrupted key presses while benefiting from Gateron's trusted craftsmanship at a budget-friendly price. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch provides a delightful blend of smoothness and a sharp, perceptible tactile bump, fostering a more interactive typing experience. With a neutral sound signature, this switch caters to those who appreciate feedback with each keystroke, ideal for both typists and gamers seeking tactile responsiveness without excessive noise. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile share a significant similarity in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This sound quality arises from the inherent properties of polycarbonate; being a relatively stiff plastic, it enhances clarity and resonance when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting diffusion, producing a visually appealing glow. As such, users of both switches can expect similar auditory experiences, especially in high-contrast lighting conditions, and a vibrant aesthetic when the switches are illuminated.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these switches employ nylon, which fundamentally alters the overall sound profile compared to the top housing. Nylon's softer characteristics absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This distinct quality of nylon contributes a rounded character to the switches, making the bottom-out sound noticeably different from the sound produced when releasing the key. Although both the Everfree Cedar and the WS Light Tactile utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the presence of this material means users will experience a rich combination of sounds: the pronounced sharpness from the polycarbonate top and the warm depth from the nylon bottom.
By combining these housing materials, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile create a nuanced typing experience. The interplay between the polycarbonate top’s resonance and the nylon bottom’s absorbency leads to a unique sound profile characterized by clarity paired with a rounded finish. When utilizing these switches in practice, typists will appreciate the balance of crispness and fullness, with the polycarbonate offering a brighter note and the nylon infusing a warmer sound. Hence, even though the mechanics of sound differ due to the materials used in each housing, the overall experience can still yield similarly satisfying results for the user, combining the advantages of both types of materials effectively.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Everfree Cedar requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, making it feel more substantial compared to the WS Light Tactile, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference could appeal to different user preferences: typists or gamers who enjoy a more resilient feel may gravitate toward the heavier Everfree switch, while those who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions might prefer the WS Light Tactile. As for the bottom out forces, the Everfree Cedar's bottom out force is currently unavailable, while the WS Light Tactile registers a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that for users seeking a more predictable bottoming out experience, the WS Light Tactile might be the better option. Overall, users should weigh these forces according to their individual preferences for typing comfort and keystroke feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Everfree (EF) Cedar has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Light Tactile features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a switch with a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Everfree Cedar may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation which gamers often prefer for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile’s longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced depth and tactile feedback, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, selecting between these switches depends on individual preference: whether one values the quick response of a shorter travel distance or the satisfying depth offered by a longer one.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 per 10 switches.
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 delivers a satisfying, poppy sound profile that is pleasant and engaging. This auditory characteristic makes it an appealing choice for users who enjoy hearing the feedback from their keystrokes, especially in environments where sound is acceptable. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch features a neutral sound signature. This means that while it may not provide the same level of auditory engagement as the Everfree, it does maintain a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings, including workplaces or quieter home environments. Overall, users can expect a more pronounced auditory experience with the Everfree switch compared to the understated sound of the WS Light Tactile.
In terms of feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch is known for delivering a smooth and reliable typing experience, allowing for unimpeded key presses that cater well to fast typists and gamers alike. Meanwhile, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a unique stepped tactile sensation, providing a perceptible bump during activation. This design results in a more dynamic typing experience where users can easily engage with the tactile feedback during their keystrokes. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal effort to activate, which helps to reduce finger fatigue during prolonged use. This makes it particularly appealing for those who value comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches bring their own strengths to the table, catering to different user preferences. The Everfree excels in delivering an engaging sound profile and smooth feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy vivid auditory feedback and seamless typing. Conversely, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a balanced sound with distinct tactile feedback and a comfortable pressing experience, making it suitable for professional environments or lengthy typing tasks. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more spirited auditory experience or a neutral, comfortable feel without sacrificing performance in either case.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you’re seeking a smooth and silent typing experience for tasks that require minimal auditory feedback, such as coding or long hours of writing, the Everfree Cedar linear switch would be an excellent choice, offering a seamless performance with a cost-effective appeal. However, if you prefer the tactile feedback that aids in both typing accuracy and comfort, the WS Light Tactile switch might be more suitable for you with its gentle yet noticeable bump and light actuation force. This switch not only provides a satisfying tactile response but also maintains a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for both quiet office environments and home use. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a smooth, linear experience or a responsive, tactile feel in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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