Gateron CM vs. Bsun Jade Rosales
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts are often torn between two highly regarded options: the Gateron CM and the Bsun Jade Rosales, both of which are linear switches designed to provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The Gateron CM stands out with its full nylon housing, which enhances the richness of its sound profile and results in a deeper acoustics. Coupled with an excellent factory lubrication and a unique dual-staged spring, it offers a bouncy, polished feel that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches, developed by XY Studio, have undergone meticulous refinement over the course of a year, incorporating custom housings and lubrication for extreme smoothness. While the CM might appeal to those seeking a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback, the Jade Rosales excel in their seamless performance, perfect for those who value a fluid keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Bsun Jade Rosales switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which leads to distinct auditory characteristics that shape the overall typing experience. The Gateron CM boasts a nylon top housing, known for its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, making the keystrokes feel warm and rounded. In contrast, the Bsun Jade Rosales employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in material ensures that while both switches provide unique aural experiences, the nylon of the Gateron CM absorbs sound to create a more muted effect, whereas the polycarbonate in the Jade Rosales enhances clarity and resonance, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting visibility due to its translucency.
When examining the bottom housing of these switches, both the Gateron CM and the Bsun Jade Rosales take on different characteristics that further complement their sound profiles. The Gateron CM features a nylon bottom housing, which similarly to its top housing, aids in producing that rich and rounded sound output. The Jade Rosales, however, utilizes a proprietary milky material for its bottom housing, making it difficult to directly compare with the nylon. While the specific properties of this custom blend are not fully disclosed, blends like these are often designed to optimize the switch's performance, creating a balanced feel and sound. Consequently, the differing materials in the bottom housings indicate that while both switches may strive for a satisfying bottom-out experience, the outcomes will vary significantly based on the inherent properties of the materials used.
Ultimately, when considering the overall performance and sound profile of the Gateron CM and Bsun Jade Rosales switches, each switch will deliver a unique user experience shaped by the contrasting materials in both the top and bottom housings. Importantly, while the CM's nylon components contribute to a cohesive and warm acoustic profile, the Jade Rosales blends milky custom materials to potentially offer an exciting and crisp typing sound. Typists seeking consistency might prefer the Gateron CM for its enveloping sound, while those who appreciate a defined auditory feedback may gravitate towards the Jade Rosales. Thus, the differences in materials not only create varied auditory textures but also establish the overall tactile experience for the user.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, distinct differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which may be preferred by typists who enjoy a more substantial key feel. In contrast, the Bsun Jade Rosales has lighter specifications, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category and making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming due to its reduced resistance. Consequently, the Gateron CM is the heavier of the two switches, offering a firmer feedback, while the Jade Rosales provides a gentler touch. Since both switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect distinctly different typing experiences based on their preferences for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when utilizing these switches, users will experience a bit more key travel with the Gateron CM, making it potentially more suitable for those who appreciate a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Jade Rosales, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and individuals who prioritize quicker response times in their typing or gaming activities. Ultimately, the Gateron CM offers a greater depth in travel, while the Jade Rosales provides a more responsive option for those who prefer a less pronounced keystroke.
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 Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 stands out with its rich, bassy, and thocky characteristics. The deeper tone produced during key presses creates a satisfying auditory experience, evoking the resonance frequently associated with higher-quality switches. The CM's lower-pitched sound profile enhances the overall typing experience, providing a unique acoustic fingerprint that can be appreciated during use. Conversely, the sound qualities of the Bsun Jade Rosales switches remain unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in this area. Regardless, it's essential to remember that the final sound output of either switch will also depend on factors like the keyboard construction and keycap choice.
When considering the feel, the Gateron CM is exceptionally well-regarded for its buttery, polished, and creamy attributes. Users can expect a seamless and fluid keystroke experience, where the factory lubrication minimizes friction and enhances smooth key travel. The lengthened, dual-staged spring also contributes a bouncy sensation, which many typists find appealing. Unfortunately, details regarding the feel of the Jade Rosales switches are not available, making it challenging to evaluate how they might compare. However, any switch incorporating careful manufacturing and lubrication techniques typically promises a satisfying tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch presents a compelling option for those seeking a robust sound and a luxurious feel during typing. With its deep sound signature and effortless keystroke experience, it has become a favorite among enthusiasts. In contrast, while the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch remains an enigma in both sound and feel, its reputation for being meticulously refined suggests it too may offer a quality experience. If the Jade Rosales shares the qualities of intentional design and lubrication found in the CM, similar positive results may very well be achieved, although confirmation is needed to fully understand its attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CM linear switches and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switches will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and how you intend to use your mechanical keyboard. If you gravitate towards a medium-heavy switch for a more pronounced keystroke feel, then the CM with its 63.5 grams of bottom-out force is likely your best bet. Its low-pitched, thocky sound profile creates a satisfying auditory experience, while the full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube offer a smooth and buttery typing sensation. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a more tactile feedback and bassy sounds in their keyboard experience, making it well-suited for both typing and gaming scenarios where you want a rich audio experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with quick actuation, the Jade Rosales, weighing in at 53 grams, navigates beautifully with its expertly refined mechanisms. These switches excel in delivering a polished feel that is exceptionally smooth, which is perfect for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming where precision and speed are essential. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you desire a more robust and rich sound with the CM or a light, effortless typing experience with the Jade Rosales.
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