Gateron CM vs. Jerrzi Coral
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Coral switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Coral, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron CM switch stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer sound signature and a smoother typing experience thanks to its factory lubrication. With a lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switch offers a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Coral switch boasts a crisp typing feel and a lower-pitched resonance, striking a balance between sophistication and performance. While the CM switch is described as 'buttery,' 'bassy,' 'polished,' and 'frictionless,' the Coral switch is characterized as 'low-pitched' and 'silky.' These general pointers can help guide you in choosing 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
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Jerrzi Coral both feature a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Coral's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Coral allows for a more clear and resonant sound, which is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both the CM and Coral have nylon bottom housings, the overall sound profile may differ due to the top housing material.
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron CM and Jerrzi Coral have differing qualities in their bottom housings. The CM's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deep and fuller sound profile, similar to its nylon top housing. In contrast, the Coral's nylon bottom housing also enhances the sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall typing experience may vary between the two switches. The split between top and bottom housing materials can result in unique sound and feel characteristics for each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical keyboard switches. While both the Gateron CM and Jerrzi Coral feature nylon bottom housings, the differences lie in their top housings - with the CM using nylon and the Coral using polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the CM provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Coral produces a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, whether the top and bottom housings are the same or different, each material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the CM switch requires 63.5 grams, while the Coral switch has no available information on its bottom out force. The CM switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, whereas the Coral switch provides a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keystroke. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Jerrzi Coral switch, while those who enjoy a heavier push feel may gravitate towards the Gateron CM switch for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Coral switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users seeking faster response times, particularly gamers. However, some users may find the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches to be noticeable in terms of feel and key responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance and key depth is preferred for an optimal typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
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 CM linear switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more mellow and bass-heavy compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches aim to enhance the auditory experience of typing, with the CM switch delivering a more pronounced resonance with its full nylon housing, while the Coral switch focuses on achieving a lower-pitched and crisp typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The smoothness and fluidity of key presses evoke a sense of effortless gliding across the keys, thanks to the factory lube job and premium materials used in its construction. Conversely, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is described as offering a silky typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing by minimizing resistance during key presses and releases much like the and promoting a refined and sleek typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the CM switch leans towards a deeper, bouncy, and rich sound signature with a smoother typing journey, the Coral switch focuses on achieving a lower-pitched, crisp sound with a silky typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on the individual's preference for sound profile and typing experience, but both switches promise a delightful and satisfying typing journey.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bouncy and smooth typing experience with a deeper and richer sound profile, and a buttery, polished, creamy, or frictionless feel, then the Gateron CM switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctively crisp typing feel, lower-pitched resonance, and a silky smooth typing experience, without a specified bottom out force, then the Jerrzi Coral switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision should come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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