Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) 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 Xinhai (Heavy) present two distinct experiences for users who prefer linear switches. The Everfree Cedar is celebrated for its smooth and reliable performance, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious users who want a solid typing experience without breaking the bank. It also features a satisfying, poppy sound profile that adds a touch of character to every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai Heavy caters to those seeking a more refined auditory experience and tactile feedback. With its unique PA12 top housing, the Xinhai produces softer acoustics, while the POM stem contributes to a higher-pitched resonance that some might find more satisfying and precise. Both switches have their merits depending on user preferences, whether it’s the cost-effectiveness and smooth performance of the Everfree Cedar or the luxurious feel and nuanced sound of the Xinhai Heavy. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, we observe a notable contrast in their top housing materials. The Everfree Cedar utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates well, making it an excellent choice for RGB setups since the lighting can shine through the clear housing. In contrast, the Xinhai Heavy features a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its ability to absorb sound more effectively. As a result, the sound profile produced by this switch is deeper and fuller, fundamentally altering the auditory experience when typing. This distinction in the top housing material translates into different sound characteristics that can greatly influence user preference based on desired auditory feedback.
Interestingly, both the Everfree Cedar and Xinhai Heavy share a common element in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon in both cases. This similarity contributes to a consistent characteristic across both switches when it comes to the overall typing experience. Nylon's properties, being softer and more sound-absorbent, provide a duller and rounder sound profile, thereby ensuring that regardless of the differing top housings, the bottom-out feel and sound will maintain this deeper quality. Therefore, users can expect a similar tactile feedback when bottoming out, regardless of which switch they are using, since the bottom housing plays a significant role in that aspect of the typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of the Everfree Cedar and Xinhai Heavy switches exemplifies the impact that housing materials have on overall sound and typing experience. The polycarbonate top of the Cedar emphasizes clarity and brightness, while the nylon top of the Heavy enriches it with depth. However, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a familiar and satisfying tactile response across both switches, making them appealing options for different auditory preferences. The diverging qualities of the top and bottom housings highlight the versatility in switch design, catering to a wide spectrum of user preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 55 grams, meaning they require an equal amount of force to register a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users will experience a similar tactile response when pressing the keys. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly: the Xinhai switch has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Everfree switch is unknown. This could indicate that the Everfree switch may offer a lighter feel overall, especially since it does not have a defined bottom out force, which could make it more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, users looking for a heavier or more substantial feel will find the Xinhai (Heavy) switch more suitable due to its increased bottom out resistance. Overall, the Everfree is the lighter switch, whereas the Xinhai provides a heavier keypress experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Everfree (EF) Cedar features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for users seeking a more responsive and quicker actuation, the Xinhai may be preferable due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Everfree provides a bit more depth, which could cater to those who enjoy a fuller keystroke experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize rapid response times for gaming or similar activities, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be the better choice, whereas the Everfree (EF) Cedar might appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing feel.
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 Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) 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
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a satisfying, poppy sound profile that enhances the user experience without being overly loud. This well-rounded acoustic quality makes it an appealing option for typists and gamers alike, providing a pleasing auditory feedback that complements its performance. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a unique acoustic signature characterized by a softer sound profile due to its PA12 top housing, paired with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance from its POM stem. This combination allows for a more refined and sophisticated sound, making it suitable for those who appreciate a subtler auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Everfree (EF) Cedar delivers a smooth, reliable typing experience that is consistent across key presses. This design allows users to enjoy a linear switch that glides effortlessly without any tactile bump, providing a seamless interaction with the keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch is engineered to embody a distinctively crisp feel as well, focusing on precise performance that may cater to users seeking enhanced control and responsiveness while typing or gaming. Both switches, being linear, will allow users to enjoy a smooth keystroke without tactile interruptions.
In summary, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches have different audio profiles—with the Cedar being poppy and the Xinhai offering softer, crisper sounds—they share a focus on smoothness in feel and overall performance. Ultimately, both options are excellent for those new to mechanical keyboards, providing reliable and enjoyable experiences tailored to various preferences in sound and tactile feedback. When choosing between them, personal preference will dictate the best fit for any user's typing or gaming style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing or gaming style. If you prioritize smooth and reliable performance without the need for a heavy bottom-out force, the Everfree Cedar is an excellent option. Its cost-effectiveness and poppy sound profile make it ideal for users who enjoy a lighter, more responsive feel, which can enhance typing comfort during extended sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance and a denser acoustic quality, the Xinhai Heavy is your best bet. With its medium bottom-out force and unique construction, it offers a refined tactile experience that balances sophistication with precise performance. This makes it suitable for users who appreciate a bit of heft in their keystrokes, whether for gaming or typing. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you in terms of sound, feel, and the overall typing experience before making your final decision.
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