Gateron CM vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and Gateron Ink Black V2 are two popular options to consider. The CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, providing a deeper and richer sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. Its impeccable factory lube job ensures a smooth typing journey, giving users the sensation of gracefully gliding with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switch features a lengthened, dual-staged spring, resulting in a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has long been favored by the community. It offers a smooth downstroke and a satisfying clack sound. Both switches fall under the low-pitched and bassy sound categories, but the CM switch can also be described as buttery, thocky, creamy, and frictionless, while the Ink Black V2 has a chirpy and mild sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron Ink Black V2 differ in terms of their sound profiles. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the CM switch produces a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While not overly sharp, this thin and higher-pitched sound is often described as being clacky. Therefore, when it comes to sound, the two switches offer distinct experiences.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Gateron CM and the Gateron Ink Black V2 vary in their impact on the overall sound profile. The CM's nylon bottom housing contributes to its deeper and fuller sound, similar to the effect of the nylon top housing. Conversely, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This difference in bottom housing materials influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. While the CM switch produces a duller and rounder bottom-out sound, the Ink Black V2 delivers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing material plays a role in the overall sound experience of the switches.
However, it is important to note that if only the top or bottom housing differs between the switches, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. In terms of tactile feedback, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even if the housing materials may vary for certain switches, they still contribute to similar overall results in terms of sound and feel, depending on which housing material influences a specific aspect of the switch's operation.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have a medium-heavy weight, making them suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the CM switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Ink Black V2's 60 grams. This means that the CM switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the CM switch is 63.5 grams, while the Ink Black V2 switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that the Ink Black V2 switch requires slightly more force to fully press down. Overall, those who prioritize a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Gateron CM linear switch, while those who prefer a heavier and more substantial feel might opt for the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch. Both switches, however, provide similar results in terms of weight and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have different travel distances. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM.
A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered to be the most traditional and is what most people are accustomed to. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.6mm is slightly shorter and more suitable for individuals who value faster response times, such as gamers. Choosing the CM switch with its shorter travel distance would result in a more responsive typing experience.
However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or shallow. For those who prefer a deeper key press, the Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance might be a better choice.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Ink Black V2 having a longer travel distance. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with gamers and those seeking faster response times leaning towards the CM switch, while individuals who prefer a deeper typing experience may favor the Ink Black V2. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but they cater to different preferences.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
The Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile. With a full nylon housing, these switches deliver a deeper and richer sound signature compared to conventional switches. They are often described as "bassy" and "thocky," with a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The CM switches provide a satisfying sound experience during key presses and offer a smoother typing journey due to their impeccable factory lube job. The lengthened, dual-staged spring also contributes to a bouncy typing experience.
On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is a classic community favorite known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. It also falls under the category of "bassy" and "low-pitched" switches, highlighting its bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 switches are described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to materials used or factory lubing, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer unique sound profiles. While the CM switch provides a deeper and richer sound with a bouncy typing experience, the Ink Black V2 switch offers a smooth downstroke with a rich clack. The CM switch has a full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube, while the Ink Black V2 switch boasts a polished finish. If you are looking for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, both switches are excellent options, but the CM switch may provide a slightly more distinctive and pronounced experience. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a switch that offers a bouncy typing experience and a deeper, richer sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch would be the right choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, the CM switch promises a smooth and gliding typing journey. It provides a bassy and thocky sound that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Moreover, the CM switch offers a buttery and polished feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great option for you. This long-time community favorite switch offers a more mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 switch provides a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Whether you prefer a bouncy and bassy typing journey or a smooth and clacky typing experience, both the Gateron CM and Ink Black V2 linear switches offer their own unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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