Gateron CM vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Gateron Ink Red. The CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, offering a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, typing on the CM switch is effortlessly smooth, evoking a sensation of graceful gliding with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switch's lengthened, dual-staged spring provides a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. The Ink Reds are satisfyingly smooth, with a crispy and clacky sound profile, and offer an effortless typing experience. While these general pointers give an overview of the switches, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron Ink Red switches differ slightly, resulting in variations in the sound profile they produce. The CM's nylon top housing is known for its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving typists a more muted and rounder sound experience. In contrast, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing is designed to create a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, without being overly sharp. This results in a satisfying thin and clacky sound that is distinctive to the Ink Red switch.
Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the CM switch contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic material of the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out the keys. On the other hand, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red switch adds to its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It enhances the thin and clacky sound that typists experience when pressing down on the keys.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the typist will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound produced will be influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, while the specific housing materials of the CM and Ink Red switches differ, they ultimately serve the same purpose of providing a unique sound profile during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron CM has a slightly heavier actuation force at 55 grams, compared to the Ink Red's 45 grams. This means that the CM requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Red has a lighter force of 60 grams, while the CM has a force of 63.5 grams. This suggests that the CM provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires a greater force to fully press down keys.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ink Red as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, others may prefer the CM's heavier actuation force for a more satisfying typing experience. The heavier force gives a stronger push feel, providing a sense of solidity while typing.
In summary, while the Gateron CM and Ink Red differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, they still offer similar results. Both switches fall under the medium category, with the Ink Red being slightly lighter overall. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Ink Red has a slightly longer distance compared to the CM. The CM's travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, which is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Ink Red's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Both options offer a different tactile experience, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. The deeper and richer sound signature resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This creates a satisfying and immersive typing experience for users who prefer a deeper and more resonant sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a slight chirpy quality. It does not have the same depth or richness as the CM switch but provides a moderate sound suitable for various typing styles and environments. Ultimately, the sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. These switches have a smooth and fluid keystroke with reduced friction, resulting in seamless and effortless typing. The spring mechanism of the CM switches provides a bouncy feel, adding to the typing enjoyment. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a silky and mild typing experience. The switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance and enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke. They fall into a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable and comfortable for most users. Both switches have a polished finish and smooth key travel, contributing to a sleek and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch have their distinct subjective qualities. The CM switch stands out with its deeper, richer, and bassy sound profile, providing a satisfyingly thocky typing experience. Its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless feel adds to the seamless and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch offers a more neutral sound and silky feel, suitable for those with a lighter typing style. Both switches have a polished finish and smooth key travel, ensuring an enjoyable typing journey. While they have their differences, if you prefer a deeper sound with a smoother feel, the CM switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a lighter sound and smoother typing experience, the Ink Red switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deeper sound profile, then the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a smoother typing experience and a bouncy feel due to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. The CM switches provide a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, creating a richer and deeper sound signature during key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing style and a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the way to go. These switches are known for their satisfyingly smooth feel, crispy and clacky sound, and effortless typing experience. The Ink Reds have a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, and offer a silky and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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