Gateron CM vs. Huano Grape Orange

Overview

When comparing the Gateron CM and the Huano Grape Orange mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts will find two distinct yet compelling options in the realm of linear switches. The Gateron CM stands out with its innovative full nylon housing, producing a richer, deeper sound signature and an impressively smooth typing experience, thanks to a meticulous factory lube job. Additionally, its lengthened, dual-staged spring contributes to a bouncy feel, ensuring that each keystroke feels both luxurious and delightful. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange caters to users who prioritize lightness and ease, boasting an ultra-low 40g actuation force that makes it an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. Each switch embodies unique characteristics: the Gateron CM offers a polished, thocky sound profile that is satisfying for both typing and gaming, while the Grape Orange provides a feather-light touch that can enhance speed and efficiency. 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

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials used in keyboard switches can dramatically affect the overall typing experience, and there are notable differences between the Gateron CM and Huano Grape Orange switches in this regard. The Gateron CM features a nylon top housing, while the Huano Grape Orange incorporates a polycarbonate top housing. This distinction in materials contributes to divergent sound profiles; the nylon top housing of the Gateron CM is softer, allowing it to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grape Orange yields a sharper and crisper sound, as polycarbonate’s rigid structure enhances resonance and clarity. Therefore, users who prioritize auditory feedback during their typing experience might choose based on their preference for either a thicker, more muted sound or a brighter, more pronounced auditory feedback.

Despite the differences in their top housings, both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing, which results in similarities in how they feel when bottoming out. As both the Gateron CM and Huano Grape Orange have a nylon bottom housing, they will create a fuller sound profile and a cushioned feel when a key is pressed down fully. The soft nature of nylon absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, leading to a comfortable and pleasant typing experience that reduces the harshness often associated with harder plastics. Consequently, while the top housing of the Gateron CM may deliver a different auditory feedback than the Grape Orange, the consistent nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that deeper and more rounded sound characteristics are present when fully depressed.

When it comes to the overall typing experience, the interplay of the housing materials influences the sound produced both when pressing and releasing keys. The Gateron CM allows users to enjoy a rich, full sound upon bottoming out due to its nylon housing, while the sharper and more resonant quality of the Grape Orange is prominent at release thanks to its polycarbonate top. This difference in sound signature can impact user satisfaction based on personal preference for auditory feedback during typing. Ultimately, though the two switches employ different top housing materials leading to distinct sound profiles, their shared nylon bottom housing ties them together, providing a summed experience that features both cushioning and attention to sound quality.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which categorizes it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a much lighter option overall. This variance allows for different typing experiences; those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Grape Orange easier to type on for extended periods, providing less strain during long sessions. Conversely, users who enjoy a more substantial push may prefer the Gateron CM for its heavier feel. As such, the CM's actuation and bottom out forces are greater, indicating a stronger typing experience compared to the lighter, more responsive Grape Orange.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch have identical travel distances of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience the same amount of movement when pressing down on each key. This similarity in travel distance results in comparable tactile feedback and response, making both switches equally suited for users who prefer a consistent keystroke depth. Therefore, whether one chooses the Gateron CM or the Huano Grape Orange, they can expect similar performance in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out with its deep and rich auditory profile. Users will appreciate the bassy and thocky qualities, characterized by a low-pitched sound that offers a satisfying thud upon actuation. This sound signature is enhanced by the switch's nylon housing, which contributes to a mellow tone that echoes beyond what one might expect from traditional switches. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch does not have a described sound profile, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound experience of any switch can be influenced heavily by the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, so users might still find an acceptable sound quality when using Grape Oranges.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CM switch excels with its buttery and creamy sensation, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job. This smooth and polished experience means that typing can feel effortless and fluid, as the key travels with minimal friction, creating an enjoyable tactile journey. The dual-staged spring design adds a bouncy feedback that enhances the overall experience. Meanwhile, the Huano Grape Orange switch is recognized for its extraordinarily light actuation force of just 40g, leading to an incredibly easy-to-press feel which is ideal for long typing sessions, although specific descriptors regarding its tactile feedback and smoothness are not provided. While both switches will offer a pleasant typing experience, Gateron CM's qualities are more explicitly tied to luxury and sophistication in tactile feedback.

In conclusion, while the Gateron CM linear switch offers a rich experience in terms of both sound and feel, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch finds its strength in a remarkably light actuation force ideal for extended use. If you're looking for a deeply satisfying auditory experience combined with luxurious smoothness, the Gateron CM is the clear choice. Meanwhile, if your priority leans towards a feather-light touch for long sessions, you might find the Grape Orange appealing, even if its sound profile remains less defined. Choosing between these two will ultimately depend on your personal preference for sound versus lightness and ease of use.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, robust sound profile, and a touch of bounce, the Gateron CM is undoubtedly the right choice for you. Its 63.5-gram bottom-out force, combined with the buttery and creamy feel, makes it ideal for typists who enjoy a deep, tactile feedback and the satisfying “thock” sound that accompanies each keystroke. On the other hand, if you require a lighter and effortless typing dynamic, particularly for long hours of use, the Huano Grape Orange with its 50-gram bottom-out force would serve you well. Its low actuation force allows for less finger fatigue, making it perfect for those marathon typing sessions or gaming where quick responsiveness is key. Ultimately, assess your typing style and consider whether you favor a more tactile, nuanced experience or an ultra-light, breezy touch. This will guide you in selecting the switch that will best enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more