Gateron CM vs. TTC Gold Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Brown. The Gateron CM is a linear switch that stands out with its full nylon housing, which not only gives it a unique appearance but also enhances the sound quality, resulting in a richer and deeper sound signature. These switches also come pre-lubricated, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience, as if you're gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switch provides a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown is a tactile switch that prides itself on balance. It offers a slight, satisfying bump when pressed, giving users tactile feedback while typing. These switches also have a moderate weightiness to them, adding a sense of stability. With its rounded sound profile, the Gold Brown produces softer tones compared to most switches, without being completely silent. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CM and TTC Gold Brown switches differ in their housing materials. The CM switch features a top housing made of nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Gold Brown switch has a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's relatively stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Gold Brown's clear housing, made possible by polycarbonate's translucency, is ideal for RGB lighting.

Both switches, however, share a nylon bottom housing. As a classic switch housing material, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, the bottom housing material ensures a similar acoustic experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings are divided between the two parts of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the sound is influenced by the top housing. So while the Gateron CM and TTC Gold Brown may differ in their materials, understanding the role of each housing allows for a better appreciation of the sound profiles they offer.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, they have some similarities and differences. The actuation force of both switches is 55 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of the initial force needed to register a keypress. However, the bottom out force differs slightly. The Gateron CM linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the TTC Gold Brown switch, which has a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Gateron CM linear switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down.

Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter switch might find the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch more suitable for their needs. Its lighter bottom out force could allow for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Gateron CM linear switch due to its heavier bottom out force. This provides a more solid and satisfying typing experience, making it a preferable choice for those seeking a more substantial feedback while typing. Overall, whether one prefers lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces will determine the switch that best suits their personal preferences and requirements.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM. A switch's travel distance determines the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, resulting in the sensation felt when pressing down on a key. The Gold Brown's 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the CM's 3.6 mm is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances, as it allows for faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority, opting for the CM switch may be a better choice. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a deeper and more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. The lower frequency range of these switches gives them a rich and deep sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This, combined with the full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, creates a sound signature that is both deep and satisfying. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile. While it does have a slight bump and a moderate weightiness, the overall sound is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. It falls into the middle ground, making it suitable for a variety of preferences and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

As for feel, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience. The smooth and fluid keystrokes of these switches give a seamless and effortless sensation, as if you're gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The full nylon housing and factory lubrication contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a mild, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience. With its gentle characteristics, these switches provide a more approachable typing experience to most users. The medium tactility provides a prominent amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. Just like the CM linear switch, the Gold Brown switch also benefits from a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The CM linear switch provides a deep and rich sound signature with a bouncy typing experience. Its smooth and fluid keystrokes create a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. Its typing experience is also buttery and polished, with a mild level of tactility. Both switches have their own unique strengths and can be a great choice depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, it's worth noting that if you're looking for a deep and rich sound with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, you can get similar results with either the CM linear switch or the Gold Brown switch, as they both offer a buttery and polished typing sensation.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a richer, deeper sound signature and a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the CM switch provides a smooth and effortless typing journey, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range and a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. The CM switch is also described as buttery, polished, and creamy, providing a seamless, smooth, and frictionless typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced switch with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a suitable choice. With a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, the Gold Brown switch offers a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches. It is described as neutral, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. The Gold Brown switch is also characterized as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch comes down to personal preference. Consider your desired sound profile, typing experience, and the level of tactility you prefer. Whether you prioritize a deeper and richer sound with a bouncy typing experience or a balanced sound with a gentle and approachable feel, both switches offer their own unique qualities to enhance your typing journey.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more