Gateron CM vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and HMX Jelly both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, even though they share the linear switch classification. The Gateron CM stands out with its full nylon housing, which not only enhances the acoustics, providing a deeper and richer sound profile, but also contributes to a smooth typing experience thanks to its factory lube and a lengthened, dual-staged spring that adds a delightful bounce. Users who appreciate a buttery, polished feel and a thocky, low-pitched audio feedback are likely to gravitate towards the CM for its distinctive auditory and tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switches deliver an equally smooth typing sensation but are characterized by their lightweight actuation force of 42g, making them a fantastic option for those seeking a more effortless keystroke. With a similarly deep sound signature, these switches can appeal to users who prioritize a quick and nimble typing experience without sacrificing auditory satisfaction. Ultimately, while both switches have their merits, the choice between the Gateron CM and HMX Jelly will depend on your personal typing style and sound preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and HMX Jelly switches share notable similarities in housing materials, both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom components. This choice of nylon, a classic material in switch construction, plays a key role in shaping the acoustic profile of both switches. In particular, nylon's softer plastic composition contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, as it effectively absorbs vibrations and reduces harshness. This means that when typing on either switch, users will experience a rounded and less pronounced sound characteristic, creating a more pleasant auditory feedback during use.
Given that both the Gateron CM and HMX Jelly switches feature nylon housings, the resulting sound profile remains consistent across both models. The shared material choice ensures that users will experience similar acoustic qualities, regardless of the model. As a result, the sound produced when bottoming out a key or releasing it will evoke a soft and muted tone. This consistency in sound is particularly beneficial for typists and gamers seeking a noise-dampened environment, as both switches will deliver a calming auditory experience during use.
While both switches exhibit impressive similarity in housing materials, the impact of their respective housings on key feel and sound could vary depending on their internal mechanisms. If the top and bottom housings were to differ in materials or design, the tactile response and sound emitted during actuation could shift, leading to distinct user experiences. However, since both the Gateron CM and HMX Jelly switches maintain the same nylon composition throughout, users can expect a relatively uniform performance, capturing the essence of typing experience that both switches aim to provide. This shared foundation of nylon ensures that whether users choose one switch over the other, they will still appreciate the depth and fullness of sound characteristic of these high-quality mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch to the HMX Jelly linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM features a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This lower force makes the Jelly switch ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, as it requires less effort to register keystrokes. Consequently, users seeking a lighter touch would find the HMX Jelly more suitable, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel might gravitate toward the Gateron CM. In summary, the CM is the heavier option, while the Jelly offers a lighter experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, we see that the Gateron CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Jelly offers a slightly greater distance at 3.8 mm. This means that the Gateron CM is the shorter option, making it a more responsive choice for gamers who favor quicker key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial feel that some users may find more satisfying, as it allows for a deeper keypress experience. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Gateron CM is best suited for those seeking rapid response times, whereas the HMX Jelly may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.
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 HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 known for its rich and deep audio profile, largely attributed to its unique nylon housing. The CM produces a bassy and thocky sound that resonates pleasantly with each keystroke, offering a satisfying auditory experience characterized by low-pitched, deep thuds. In comparison, the HMX Jelly linear switch features a sound signature that is also low-pitched and thocky, although specific descriptors for its sound profile have not been provided. Both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, though the CM's deeper sound might offer a slightly more resonant quality, while Jelly is expected to deliver a comparable, albeit different, auditory encounter.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM excels with descriptors such as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. This means you can expect a smooth, fluid keystroke that is easy on the fingers and provides a luxurious typing experience, thanks to its excellent factory lube and specially designed long springs. On the other hand, while the specific feel characteristics of the Jelly switch remain unspecified, the factory lubrication suggests it may also be smooth and pleasant to type on. Given the CM's known attributes, if the Jelly delivers a similarly smooth experience, users can expect a comfortable typing journey with both switches, albeit possibly with slight variations.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM and HMX Jelly switches offer unique sound profiles and smooth typing experiences. The CM stands out for its rich, thocky sound and luxurious feel, while the Jelly toggle may provide a similarly enjoyable experience in sound and performance. Depending on personal preferences for sound depth and tactile feedback, either switch could be an excellent choice, making the experience of typing both pleasurable and satisfying. Ultimately, the decision may come down to individual taste in sound and feel, with the potential for similar results in typing comfort across both models.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron CM linear switches and HMX Jelly linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the CM switches will likely cater to your needs. Their rich, deep sound signature and buttery, polished feel make them ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a bouncy action while typing. The impressive factory lube job enhances the overall experience, allowing for a smooth and frictionless journey with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more comfortable actuation force of 48 grams, the Jelly switches are the better choice. Their low-pitched, thocky sound signature provides a satisfying auditory feedback, while their silky-smooth operation ensures you can type quickly and comfortably for extended periods. In essence, select the CM switches if you value heft and depth in your keystrokes, and opt for the Jelly switches for a lighter, more effortless feel.
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