Gateron CM vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Everglide Crystal Violet offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, producing a richer and deeper sound signature. Their impeccable factory lube job ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience, almost as if you are gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switches' lengthened, dual-staged spring provides a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet switches are meticulously crafted with a light operating force of 45g, ideal for those seeking a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. These switches offer a gentle and comfortable feel, with a sound profile leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum for a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. The use of ABS in their housings further enhances their unique characteristics. Overall, both switches offer their own advantages depending on personal preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches offer distinct differences in sound profile and feel. The CM switch features a nylon top housing, which is a classic choice known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Crystal Violet switch utilizes an ABS top housing, a relatively rare choice in switch housings. This material creates a lower-pitched sound profile when typing, providing a unique auditory experience compared to the CM switch.
Moving onto the bottom housing, both the CM and Crystal Violet switches have their own characteristics. The CM switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of its top housing. This nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switch employs an ABS bottom housing, which is unusual for switch housings. Typing on switches with ABS bottom housings results in a relatively low-pitched sound profile, creating a different tactile feedback compared to the CM switch.
When considering the overall impact of the top and bottom housings in a switch, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are distributed differently. The bottom housing holds more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that when you press down on the switch, you will primarily experience the characteristics of the bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the CM and Crystal Violet switches, both offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback, contributing to an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Crystal Violet requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the CM has a heavier force of 63.5 grams compared to the Crystal Violet's 55 grams. This means that the CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push feel, while the Crystal Violet offers a lighter touch for longer periods of typing or gaming. However, it's worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range of forces. So, if you're looking for similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, both switches would provide a satisfactory experience, with the CM offering slightly heavier feedback and the Crystal Violet offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch have different travel distances. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Crystal Violet has a travel distance of 4 mm. The CM offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet provides a longer travel distance, which some individuals may find more satisfying for a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether you prioritize a quicker, more responsive keystroke or a more deliberate, substantial keypress. However, it should be noted that both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall feel.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that it produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is low-pitched, which contributes to a mellow auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch also has a low-pitched sound profile, leaning towards a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It offers a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide similar sound qualities, with the Gateron CM switch offering a slightly deeper and richer sound compared to the Crystal Violet switch.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. They both provide a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, resulting in a uniform feel. This is due to their factory lubrication and the use of specific materials in their construction. The switches glide smoothly, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. It is a safe middle-ground switch that should be approachable for most users. The Crystal Violet switch also features a stepped tactile feel, meaning that it has two stages of tactile feedback. It provides some pre-travel and/or post-travel, making the tactile experience more subdued compared to switches with a larger tactile bump. Overall, both switches offer a creamy and frictionless typing experience, making them a pleasure to type on.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch have their own unique qualities, but they also share similarities in sound and feel. The CM switch stands out for its full nylon housing, delivering a deeper and richer sound signature that is characterized as bassy and thocky. It offers a bouncy typing experience due to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet switch is known for its light operating force and neutral sound profile. Its low-pitched sound and creamy feel provide a relaxed and comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer a buttery and frictionless feel, gliding smoothly with each keystroke. Although there are some differences in their sound and feel, those seeking a deep, rich sound and bouncy typing experience may find the CM switch more appealing, while those looking for a lighter typing experience with a balanced sound may prefer the Crystal Violet switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smoother and more bouncy typing experience with a deeper, bassier sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. The CM's full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job ensure an effortlessly smooth keystroke, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each press. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback. Additionally, the CM switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a deeper and richer auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch would suit your preferences. These switches have a lighter operating force of 55 grams, providing a relaxed and comfortable feel. The Crystal Violet's rare use of ABS in its housing contributes to its low-pitched sound, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. With its creamy and mild characteristics, the Crystal Violet switch offers a smooth and buttery typing sensation, allowing you to effortlessly glide your fingers across the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch depends on your desired typing experience. Consider whether you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bouncy and bassy sound or a lighter switch with a gentle and stepped tactile feel. Both switches offer their unique qualities and are suitable for different preferences and typing styles.
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