Gateron CM vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with different features that cater to specific preferences. The CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing that produces a richer sound signature and a bouncy typing feel thanks to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch provides a seamless keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation and softer backlight effects for a consistent typing experience. While the CM switch is described as 'buttery' and 'thocky', the Jupiter Red switch is categorized as 'silky' and 'mild'. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on whether you prefer a deeper sound and bouncy typing experience (CM) or a smoother keystroke with softer backlight effects (Jupiter Red). 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
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
Polycarbonate
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Gateron CM and Jupiter Red switches showcase a stark difference in housing materials, with the CM featuring a nylon top and nylon bottom housing, while the Jupiter Red boasts a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in both switches provides a deep and full sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. These differences in material directly influence the sound produced by each switch, catering to different preferences in sound profile.
While the Gateron CM and Jupiter Red switches share a nylon bottom housing, their divergent top housings result in distinct sound profiles. The CM's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, in line with its overall nylon construction. In contrast, the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing elevates the sound profile to be sharper and clearer, especially when coupled with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite sharing a common bottom housing material, the switches offer unique auditory experiences based on their top housing choices.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron CM and Jupiter Red switches play a significant role in the typing experience. The split between the nylon and polycarbonate top housings impacts the sound when pressing down and releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both housing components. The differences in material properties between the top and bottom housings showcase how each element contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch when in use, allowing users to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Jupiter Red switch. Additionally, the bottom out force of the CM switch is 63.5 grams, slightly higher than the 60 grams of the Jupiter Red switch. While both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, the CM switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Jupiter Red switch. This difference in weight may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches offer a choice between a lighter or heavier typing experience, depending on the user's preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that the CM has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jupiter Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the CM will require less distance to actuate compared to the Jupiter Red. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the CM for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Jupiter Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing or gaming experience.
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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This is complemented by the full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, creating a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing preferences. While the CM switch offers a more pronounced and distinct sound profile, the Jupiter Red switch focuses on delivering a consistent and smooth typing experience without any overwhelming characteristics. When it comes to sound preferences, the CM switch would appeal to those who enjoy a deeper and bass-heavy sound, while the Jupiter Red switch would suit individuals looking for a more balanced and versatile sound.
Moving on to feel, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch share some similarities in terms of providing a polished and creamy typing experience. The CM switch offers a buttery, polished, and frictionless typing sensation due to its full nylon housing and dual-staged spring, allowing for smooth and effortless key presses. Similarly, the Jupiter Red switch also provides a polished and creamy feel, ensuring a refined and silky typing experience with its high-precision molds and single-stage spring design. Despite these similarities, the CM switch may offer a slightly bouncier feel due to its unique spring design compared to the more consistent and gentle typing experience of the Jupiter Red switch. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a premium and comfortable typing feel, with the CM switch leaning towards a more fluid and frictionless experience while the Jupiter Red switch focuses on delivering a refined and versatile typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CM switch stands out with its bassy and thocky sound profile, along with a buttery and polished typing feel, providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a polished and creamy typing feel, focusing on consistency and versatility. Both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing journey, allowing users to choose between a more pronounced and bouncy typing experience with the CM switch or a refined and smooth typing feel with the Jupiter Red switch. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound depth, typing sensation, and overall typing comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a richer, deeper sound profile and enjoy a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM may be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more seamless typing experience with softer backlight effects and a moderate sound profile, the Gateron Jupiter Red could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles.
Mentioned in this article
