Gateron CM vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the TTC Honey are two popular options to consider. The CM switches distinguish themselves by breaking away from the conventional polycarbonate housings and instead opting for full nylon housings. This choice results in a richer and deeper sound signature, complemented by an impeccable factory lube job that ensures an effortlessly smooth typing journey. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switches provide a smooth and creamy typing feel, with a deep and pleasant sound profile. Both switches excel in delivering a frictionless and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the TTC Honey switches offer distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The CM's nylon top housing, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Honey's polycarbonate top housing, being stiffer, produces a sharper and crisper sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, whereas nylon does not offer this feature.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the CM and Honey switches differ in material and, therefore, sound profile. The softer nylon bottom housing of the CM contributes to a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey creates a more clear and resonant sound. Like the top housing, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous if the switch incorporates RGB lighting.
When both top and bottom housings vary in material, the characteristics of each material are divided between the two parts of the switch. As a result, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the sound and feel during the keypress, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Despite the differences in materials, the CM and Honey switches share similarities in terms of their influence on the sound profile, depending on the specific housing material used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, there are some notable differences. The CM linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, which means that it requires a medium-heavy force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Honey switch requires less force to activate, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter and more responsive typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the CM linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates that it requires a slightly heavier force when pressing the switch all the way down. On the other hand, the Honey linear switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is lighter in comparison. This means that individuals who opt for the Honey switch can expect a softer and less forceful bottoming out sensation.
Considering the weight of the switches, the Gateron CM linear switch can be considered heavier due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. This may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and do not mind applying more force while typing. Conversely, the TTC Honey linear switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. This makes it a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a lighter switch that requires less effort to type for extended periods of time.
In summary, while the Gateron CM linear switch offers a medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, the TTC Honey linear switch provides a lighter and more responsive typing experience. Both switches have their respective strengths and benefits, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular lately. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron CM with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer a switch with more depth. In this case, the TTC Honey switch with its longer travel distance would be the suitable choice. Overall, the Gateron CM has the shorter travel distance, while the TTC Honey has the longer travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for responsiveness or depth.
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 Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 is best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. This means that it offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, with a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is characterized by a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch is described as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. It offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CM and TTC Honey linear switches are described as creamy and frictionless. This means that they offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, both switches are also described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The Gateron CM switches are also described as buttery and polished, suggesting a sleek typing experience thanks to a smooth and refined finish. However, it's important to note that some of the similar descriptors may be due to factory lubing or specific materials used in the switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and TTC Honey linear switch offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a creamy and smooth typing experience, with reduced friction and effortless key presses. The Gateron CM switches are best known for delivering a richer and deeper sound signature, along with a bouncy typing experience due to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switches are described as having a deep and pleasant sound profile. Overall, both switches promise an enjoyable typing journey, but the choice between them may come down to personal preference regarding specific sound characteristics or the presence of a nylon housing in the CM switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, accompanied by a bouncy typing experience and a richer, deeper sound signature, the CM switch is the one for you. Its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job ensure a smooth and effortless typing journey with each keystroke. The CM switch is best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a deep and satisfying sound profile.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth and creamy typing feel, the TTC Honey switch is the better choice. It provides a deep and pleasant sound profile and is known for its smooth and buttery typing experience. The Honey switch is described as creamy, frictionless, subtle, and polished, offering a silky sensation and minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM and TTC Honey switches depends on your personal preferences regarding bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider the characteristics and descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed choice that aligns with your typing preferences. Happy typing!
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