Gateron CM vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Brown Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it all boils down to personal preferences and typing style. The Gateron CM, a linear switch, stands out for its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, promising a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a rich sound signature. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, offers a more subtle and nuanced feedback with its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, perfect for those who value understated tactile experiences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, it is evident that the CM utilizes a nylon top housing while the Gold Brown Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the CM provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition. The aesthetic difference is also notable, as polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, while nylon typically lacks this feature.
On the other hand, both the CM and the Gold Brown Pro utilize a nylon bottom housing. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer nature enables it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. The similarities in the bottom housing material highlight that these switches may produce comparable sound profiles in terms of depth and resonance. However, the differences in the top housing material between the two switches can lead to variations in sound quality and feel when typing on each respective switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While both the CM and the Gold Brown Pro benefit from the use of nylon in the bottom housing, the distinction in the top housing materials results in distinct sound characteristics. The nylon top housing of the CM offers a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro delivers a clearer and more resonant sound. These differences underscore the importance of housing materials in achieving the desired typing experience and sound profile in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is evident that they both have different actuation and bottom out forces. The CM has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams, making the CM switch require a heavier initial push. However, the bottom out force of the CM is 63.5 grams, while the Gold Brown Pro's bottom out force is not specified. This indicates that the CM switch will have a heavier overall feel when fully pressed compared to the Gold Brown Pro. The difference in forces between the two switches allows for a varied typing experience, with the CM providing a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Despite these differences, users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the preference between the two switches depends on the individual's typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are often favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Gateron CM, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the TTC Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results from either option.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, providing a deep and satisfying sound without being too loud or intrusive. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the CM delivering a richer, deeper sound and the Gold Brown Pro offering a more subdued and understated tone. The choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a bolder or more subtle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keypress sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is noted for its polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped feel, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with a slight tactile bump. Both switches aim to minimize resistance and provide a frictionless typing experience, with the CM focusing on a buttery and uniform feel while the Gold Brown Pro offers a more nuanced and subtle tactility. Depending on your preference for a smoother or more tactile typing experience, either switch would cater to your needs.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The CM provides a richer, deeper sound and a buttery, polished typing experience, while the Gold Brown Pro offers a more subtle and understated sound profile with a silky, mild tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a bold sound and smooth typing experience (CM) or a gentle tactility and subdued sound profile (Gold Brown Pro). No matter which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prioritize a unique typing experience with a full nylon housing, factory-lubed smoothness, and a bouncy feel, opt for the CM switch. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a rich, deep, and thocky sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a more understated and subtle tactile feedback with a polished finish, choose the Gold Brown Pro switch. This switch offers a gentle tactile bump and a subdued sound profile, making it ideal for minimizing distractions during typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a bold and distinctive typing experience with the CM switch or a refined and subtle feel with the Gold Brown Pro switch.
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