Gateron CM vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Jwick Ginger Milk. The Gateron CM switches stand out with their full nylon housing, breaking away from the conventional polycarbonate housings used by many switches. This unique construction not only gives the CM switches a bold appearance but also contributes to a richer and deeper sound signature during typing. Additionally, these switches are factory-lubricated, ensuring an effortlessly smooth typing experience akin to gliding gracefully with each keystroke. With their lengthened and dual-staged spring design, the CM switches provide a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk switches offer a different experience. They are known for their soft and pastel appearance, which reflects the typing experience they deliver. Typing with Ginger Milk switches feels silky smooth and approachable, with a muted yet snappy sound profile. These switches have a neutral and buttery feel. Both switches have their unique features and qualities that make them appealing. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
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 the Jwick Ginger Milk have distinct differences in their housing materials. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ginger Milk features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles depending on their respective top housings.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the CM and the Ginger Milk utilize nylon. As with the top housing, the nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature and sound absorption properties of nylon create a dull and round sound when typing on switches. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will provide similar results due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences between the two switches become apparent. The CM, with its nylon top housing, will deliver a deeper and fuller sound while typing. The sound profile will have a dull and round quality to it, creating a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Typing on the Ginger Milk will result in a crisper and more resonant sound profile. Furthermore, the transparency of the polycarbonate top housing enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and the Jwick Ginger Milk will depend on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the individual.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. However, the Gateron CM has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams, while the Ginger Milk requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ginger Milk may be the more suitable option, as it requires less force for actuation. On the other hand, if someone prefers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they may lean towards the Gateron CM with its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ginger Milk has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron CM switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, it's important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a switch with a more substantial depth, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are seeking.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a unique and bold auditory experience. With its full nylon housing, these switches produce a deeper and richer sound signature. Described as "bassy," the CM switches have a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, they are characterized as "thocky," producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. These switches also have a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a more neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate sound experience suitable for most purposes. It neither leans towards being bass-heavy nor produces a distinct thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CM and Jwick Ginger Milk switches are described as "buttery." This means that they provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The CM switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Their full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job contribute to a sleek and polished feel. The switches are also described as "creamy," further emphasizing their smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switches have a similarly smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Although the specific details of their feel are not provided, being described as "buttery" suggests that they offer a similar level of smoothness and effortless typing.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch and Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switches provide a deeper, richer, and bass-heavy sound profile, while the Ginger Milk switches have a more neutral sound. Both switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, described as "buttery." While the Ginger Milk switches have a muted and snappy sound profile, the CM switches boast a lengthened and dual-staged spring, promising a bouncy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch have their unique advantages. If you prioritize a bouncy typing experience and a rich, deeper sound signature, then the CM switches with their full nylon housing and factory lube job would be a great choice for you. The CM switches offer a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, ensuring smooth and effortless keystrokes with reduced friction. On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and pastel aesthetic, along with a smooth and approachable push feel, the Ginger Milk switches would be more suitable. These switches provide a muted, snappy sound profile and a buttery typing experience. They also have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile for various typing purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM and Jwick Ginger Milk will depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
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