Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Gateron CM, a linear switch, offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments such as offices, providing a medium-heavy weight for a satisfying tactile feel without the noise. On the other hand, the CM switches stand out with their full nylon housing and factory lube job, offering a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a rich sound signature. While the Aliaz switches are characterized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the CM switches are known for being 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. These general descriptions give an overview of the key differences between the two switches; 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron CM, one key difference is that the Aliaz features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the CM utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate material in the Aliaz switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which resonates more clearly. In contrast, the nylon material in the CM switch produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Moreover, the aesthetic aspect of the housing materials also differs between the Aliaz and the CM switches. The Aliaz's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting to showcase the colors effectively. On the other hand, the CM's nylon housing is a classic material choice that may not have the same visual appeal as the clear polycarbonate housing. However, both materials have their advantages in terms of sound profile, with polycarbonate offering a sharper tone and nylon providing a deeper sound experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron CM switches, the overall typing experience may yield similar results in terms of keypress feel and sound. While the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing has a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, both switches may offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Aliaz providing a crisper sound profile due to its polycarbonate housing, and the CM offering a deeper sound profile with its nylon housing.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gateron CM linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams. On the other hand, the Aliaz also has a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams, while the CM has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches fall on the heavier side of the spectrum, but the Aliaz is overall heavier than the CM. When it comes to weight preferences, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Aliaz, while those who prefer a lighter touch may prefer the CM. In terms of typing endurance, the lighter actuation force of the CM may make it more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Aliaz could be preferred by users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Aliaz has a longer travel distance compared to the CM switch. The Aliaz switch offers a deeper press and might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. On the other hand, the CM switch provides a slightly shallower press, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer their own unique advantages based on the desired typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Aliaz tactile switch is designed to be muted, providing a softer and quieter typing experience perfect for office environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Aliaz providing a subtle typing sound and the CM offering a more impactful auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing sensation, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction. Both switches offer a refined and effortless typing feel, with the CM switch leaning more towards a creamy and frictionless experience compared to the Aliaz.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aliaz is tailored for a quiet typing environment with its muted and silky typing experience, the CM stands out with its bassy sound profile and buttery, creamy, and frictionless feel. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for, but rest assured that both switches offer high-quality and satisfying performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with subtle feedback, the Aliaz switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bolder sound profile and desire a smoother, bouncy typing experience with a lower bottom out force, the CM switches may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal typing preferences and the ambiance in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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