Gateron CM vs. TTC Gold Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CM and the TTC Gold Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CM stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a rich and deep sound signature that is complemented by a smooth typing experience thanks to impeccable factory lubrication. With its lengthened, dual-staged spring, users can expect a bouncy typing experience with the CM switch. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel distance, delivering a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. The smooth journey from press to bottoming out adds to the switch's blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. Both switches have their own set of characteristics and benefits, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CM and TTC Gold Silver switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the top housing of the CM is made with nylon, while the Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clear housing of the Gold Silver allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing.

In terms of sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing of both the Gateron CM and TTC Gold Silver switches will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The difference in their top housing materials, nylon for the CM and polycarbonate for the Gold Silver, will result in varying sound profiles. The softer nylon top housing of the CM will create a mellower sound when releasing a key, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Silver will produce a clearer and more resonant sound. Overall, the combination of different housing materials in each switch will create a unique typing experience.

While the housing materials of the Gateron CM and TTC Gold Silver switches bring their own distinct qualities to the typing experience, the overall impact on sound and feel may be similar due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches will provide a deep and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to the absorbing properties of nylon. However, the choice between the softer nylon top housing of the CM for a duller sound or the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Silver for a crisper sound will ultimately come down to personal preference. Whether opting for a more mellow or resonant sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver switch is lighter in terms of actuation force with 45 grams compared to the CM switch's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the CM switch is heavier at 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Silver switch is unknown. This means that the CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Gold Silver switch offers a lighter actuation force for those who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Gold Silver switch, while those who prefer a heavier typing experience may choose the CM switch.

Travel distance

The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their quicker response times, especially among gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users, but those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for increased responsiveness may lean towards the TTC Gold Silver switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth in their key press may find the Gateron CM switch more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a snappy and efficient typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch also provides a thocky sound with a low-pitched and neutral characteristic, making it suitable for most users. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience in terms of sound, with the CM providing a bass-heavy richness and the Gold Silver offering a more moderate sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on personal preference and how the sound complements your setup.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CM switch is described as buttery, polished, and creamy, offering a smooth and frictionless typing experience. This switch ensures seamless and effortless keystrokes, enhancing the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch provides a polished, silky, mild, and subtle feel, emphasizing smooth key travel and a gentle typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and reduced friction, making them suitable for users looking for a refined and comfortable typing feel. Choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a creamier, buttery feel or a more subtle, silky typing experience.

In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch provide exceptional sound and feel qualities, making them excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The CM switch stands out with its bassy sound profile and buttery feel, while the Gold Silver switch excels in providing a thocky sound and polished feel. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound signature and typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a premium typing journey with their distinct characteristics and high-quality construction.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prioritize a bouncy typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile, along with a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation, the Gateron CM switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out feel, and a harmonious blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in every keystroke, then the TTC Gold Silver switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches depends on your individual preferences for typing experience and the sound profile you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more