Gateron CM vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the TKC Kiwi. The Gateron CM is a linear switch that stands out with its full nylon housing, providing a deeper and richer sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, feeling as if you are gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switches feature a lengthened, dual-staged spring, resulting in a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch designed specifically to enhance your typing experience. It boasts a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and an immersive typing experience. The Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. While these general descriptions give an overview of each switch, let's explore further into their characteristics to help you determine which is the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the TKC Kiwi have different housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. The CM utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Kiwi features a UHWMPE top and bottom housing. The nylon material used in the CM switch housing is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the UHWMPE material in the Kiwi switch housing is newer and offers a very bright sound signature, delivering resonant clacks when typing on switches equipped with such housings.
The difference in housing materials between the Gateron CM and the TKC Kiwi affects the overall sound profile and feeling of the switches. With its nylon top housing, the CM switch produces a deeper and fuller sound when pressed down, providing a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Kiwi switch with its UHWMPE top housing generates a bright and resonant clack, delivering a more energetic and vibrant typing sensation. The choice between these two housing materials ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired sound and feel when typing.
While there are differences in the housing materials used for the top and bottom housings, it is important to note that both the Gateron CM and the TKC Kiwi share the characteristic of utilizing a classic switch housing material. Nylon is a time-tested material that offers a softer touch and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile. Although the Kiwi switch adopts a newer material, UHWMPE, for both its top and bottom housing, it still aims to provide a bright sound signature, resonant clacks, and potentially different typing experience. Therefore, while the specific materials used may differ, both switches seek to enhance the overall typing sound and feel for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Kiwi is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the CM is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams. This means that typing with the Kiwi switch will require a lighter touch and may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the CM at 63.5 grams and the Kiwi at 67 grams. This indicates that regardless of the actuation force difference, both switches will offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Kiwi switch, while those seeking a more substantial feel may lean towards the CM switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Kiwi switch is slightly longer than the CM switch. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the CM switch a good option in this case. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and may prefer the more hearty depth provided by the longer travel distance of the Kiwi switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch has a distinctive bassy and thocky sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. With their full nylon housing, they deliver a unique sound signature that adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is low-pitched and offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While not as prominent as the CM, the Kiwi switch still provides a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you are looking for a similar sound experience to the CM, the Kiwi switch will still deliver a rich and immersive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The CM switch's full nylon housing and factory lube job contribute to the smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is also described as polished, offering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Kiwi switch provides a stepped feel, with a mild tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. While the feel of the CM and Kiwi switches differs due to their linear and tactile nature, respectively, both switches offer a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron CM linear switch and TKC Kiwi tactile switch each have their own unique qualities. The CM switch stands out for its bassy and thocky sound signature, as well as its buttery and frictionless feel. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a medium to medium-strong bump, along with a polished feel and stepped tactility. Both switches are factory lubed, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience. While they may differ in certain aspects, if you are looking for a rich and immersive typing experience, either switch will provide satisfying results. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and TKC Kiwi tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. The Gateron CM linear switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and stands out with its full nylon housing, delivering a deeper and richer sound signature. With its lengthened, dual-staged spring, these switches provide a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams and features a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. It offers a snappy sound profile and a smooth typing experience right out of the box. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile and can be described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, whether you prefer a linear switch with a deeper sound and bouncy typing experience or a tactile switch with a snappy sound and medium-strong bump, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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