Gateron CM vs. Gateron Glory Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and Gateron Glory Yellow both stand out as exceptional linear options, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Gateron CM is celebrated for its distinctive full nylon housing, which produces a rich, bassy sound profile that enhances the auditory experience while typing. With its expertly applied factory lubrication, the CM switch promises a buttery, frictionless glide that feels luxurious under the fingers, supported by a dual-staged spring that gives a delightful bounce to every keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow is recognized for its heavier touch and smooth keystroke, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a substantial feel while typing. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying, linear experience, the Gateron CM leans towards a richer sound and a polished tactile sensation, while the Glory Yellow emphasizes a firmer feedback and enjoyable travel distance. 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
N/A
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
Nylon
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches both utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components. This choice of material is significant, as nylon is recognized for its properties that enhance the overall auditory experience while typing. In both switches, the nylon’s softer texture contributes to a more subdued sound profile, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when the keys are actuated. This similarity means that users can expect comparable auditory feedback when typing on both the CM and Glory Yellow, as both switches will deliver a distinctively rounder and less abrasive auditory experience.
When examining the housing configuration, the Gateron CM and the Glory Yellow both benefit from using nylon in both their top and bottom housings. This consistency allows for an integrated performance whereby the characteristics of the nylon material carry through each switch. Typing on either switch will yield a similar tactile sensation and sound profile, thanks to the shared material properties. Such design choices suggest that regardless of which switch a typist chooses, the qualities of the sound and feel will remain constant across both options, reinforcing the idea that the nylon construction plays a crucial role in determining the overall experience with these switches.
One interesting point to note is the way the top and bottom housings interact in creating the typing experience. While both the CM and the Glory Yellow feature nylon in each housing, the bottom housing tends to influence the bottom-out sound and feel more prominently, whereas the top housing impacts the sound upon key release. This nuanced interaction means that although the materials are the same, the experience might still feel slightly different depending on the build of the switch itself. Notably, however, since both switches share identical nylon components, users can anticipate a very similar performance throughout their typing experience, ensuring a consistent auditory and tactile result.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch differ in their actuation forces, with the CM requiring a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 50 grams of the Glory Yellow. This means that the CM might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the lighter actuation force of the Glory Yellow makes it more suitable for those who engage in prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in that regard. The CM has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which reinforces its medium-heavy feel. Overall, if users prefer a lighter option, the Glory Yellow would be the better choice, while those looking for a heavier feel might opt for the CM.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, the CM measures 3.6 mm, while the Glory Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Glory Yellow the longer option, offering a more traditional depth that some users may find more satisfying, particularly those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron CM, with its shorter 3.6 mm travel distance, may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and a more rapid actuation, as shorter distances are increasingly favored in gaming settings. Therefore, if you value responsiveness and prefer a lighter touch, the Gateron CM is the better choice, whereas the Glory Yellow caters to those who enjoy a deeper keystroke 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 Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow 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
When it comes to sound characteristics, the Gateron CM linear switch is renowned for its rich and deep audio profile. Its bassy and thocky qualities contribute to a satisfying acoustic experience, producing a low-pitched thud when keys are pressed and released. This distinctive sound, thanks in part to its full nylon housing, enhances the overall typing experience by delivering an engaging auditory feedback that many enthusiasts cherish. In contrast, the Glory Yellow linear switch does not have specific sound properties detailed, leaving its acoustic quality largely unknown. However, users can expect a less pronounced sound signature compared to the CM based on general attributes found in linear switches.
The feel of the Gateron CM switch is where it truly shines, offering a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience. The smooth key travel is further enhanced by an impeccable factory lube job, resulting in frictionless performance that allows for a seamless engagement with each keystroke. This type of fluidity promotes effortless typing, making it an ideal choice for prolonged use. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Glory Yellow, making it difficult to directly compare its tactile qualities. However, given that the switch is noted for its smooth keystroke and enjoyable travel distance, one can infer that it also aims to provide a comfortable typing feel, albeit possibly not at the same level of refinement as the CM.
In summary, both the Gateron CM and Glory Yellow linear switches offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The CM excels in sound quality, with low-pitched, rich tones, while its tactile feel is characterized by extreme smoothness and minimal friction, making it a standout option for enthusiasts seeking auditory and tactile pleasure. The Glory Yellow, while less defined in terms of sound and feel, still promises a smooth keystroke experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to create enjoyable typing experiences, but those who prioritize sound and a refined feel may find the CM more appealing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a more robust and tactile typing sound, coupled with a slightly heavier keystroke, the Gateron CM is an excellent choice. Known for its deep, rich, and thocky sound profile, along with a remarkably smooth action thanks to its nylon housing and factory lube, the CM can make your typing sessions feel both satisfying and luxurious. It's ideal if you appreciate a bouncy, frictionless experience, and if you're looking for a switch that evokes a sense of craftsmanship in both sound and touch. Conversely, if you prioritize a lighter feel and prefer a smooth keystroke with a more pleasant travel distance for quicker typing, the Glory Yellow might be more suited to your needs. Although descriptions of its sound qualities are less emphasized, the focus on a smooth keystroke indicates it is designed for casual and efficient typing without the heft of other switches. Therefore, consider what aspects of typing you value most—whether it’s the rich sound and tactile feedback of the CM or the smooth efficiency of the Glory Yellow—because both switches will cater to different styles of typing.
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