Gateron CM vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options to consider are the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Red, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron CM switches set themselves apart from the norm by featuring a full nylon housing instead of the usual polycarbonate. This unique design choice not only delivers a richer and deeper sound signature but also ensures a smoother typing experience thanks to the impeccable factory lube job. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, these CM switches provide a bouncy typing sensation that feels akin to gracefully gliding with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Their snappy sound profile adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, catering to different preferences. However, let's take a closer look beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Red switches have different housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. The CM features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Gold Red has a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Gold Red's clear housing also makes it ideal for RGB lighting.
While their top housings differ, both the CM and Gold Red switches have nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. Thus, both switches will provide a similar sound experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the impact of the top housing will come into play when you release a key, influencing the sound produced.
In summary, the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Red switches have contrasting housing materials in their top housings. The CM's nylon top housing offers a softer and rounder sound, while the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Nonetheless, they share a common material in their nylon bottom housings, ensuring a similar depth and fullness in the sound when pressing down on the switches. It is important to note that the different housing materials in the switches' tops and bottoms will affect the sound profiles in distinct ways when typing or releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, there are notable differences. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is heavier than the Gold Red's 43 grams. This means that the CM switch requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the CM switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is also heavier than the Gold Red's 50 grams. This indicates that the CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer bottoming out sensation. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for extended periods. In terms of weight, the CM switch is considered medium-heavy, while the Gold Red switch is classified as light. Although their forces differ, both switches offer distinct advantages. By choosing the appropriate switch based on their force preferences, users can expect to have a more enjoyable typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch differ by 0.4 mm. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional measurements, 4.0 mm is considered the standard travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the shallowest option available. However, the demand for shorter travel distances has grown in recent years, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you are seeking a more responsive typing experience, opting for the Gateron CM with its shorter travel distance may be preferable. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the TTC Gold Red with its longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for depth and responsiveness.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out with its bassy and thocky characteristics. The deeper and richer sound profile of the CM switches offers a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch also has a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Both switches have a low-pitched sound, which adds a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by the choice of board and keycaps, users can expect a similar deep and rich sound from both the CM and Gold Red switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience. The smooth and fluid keystroke experience of the CM switches provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. With materials used and factory lubing, the CM switches have a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek typing experience. Similarly, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild, silky, and subtle typing experience. The gentle typing feel and exceptionally smooth typing experience of the Gold Red switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of the Gold Red switches also contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a frictionless and smooth typing experience, ensuring a satisfying feel during every keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch share several subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a thocky sound profile, with a deeper and satisfying sound during key presses. They also offer a low-pitched sound, adding a bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing experience. Furthermore, both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing feel, with reduced friction, uniformity, and a refined finish. While the CM switches emphasize a creamier sensation and a bouncy typing experience due to lengthened, dual-staged springs, the Gold Red switches focus on a mild and safe typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Overall, users can expect similar results and a high-quality typing experience from either switch, depending on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a bouncy typing experience, the CM switches might be the right choice for you. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile with a bassy and thocky sound, complemented by their full nylon housing. The CM switches also provide a smooth and polished typing experience, with a buttery and frictionless feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a gentle typing experience, the Gold Red switches would be a suitable option. These switches offer a snappy sound profile with a thocky and low-pitched sound. The Gold Red switches provide a silky and subtle feel, with a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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