Gateron CM vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Durock Light Tactile offer unique experiences for different typing preferences. The CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature. It also boasts an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing journey that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, thanks to its lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switch offers a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, which offers a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on the Light Tactile switch feels angelic, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. While the CM switch is described as 'buttery', 'bassy', 'polished', 'thocky', 'low-pitched', 'creamy', and 'frictionless', the Light Tactile switch falls under the categories of 'neutral', 'mild', and 'polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Durock Light Tactile switches differ in terms of the materials used in their top housings. The CM features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Light Tactile has a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is also translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting.
In contrast, both the CM and Light Tactile switches share the same nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
However, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound production of a switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the difference in top housing materials between the CM and Light Tactile switches will contribute to variations in their sound profiles when keys are released.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, one can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches fall into the category of medium-heavy switches, with the CM having an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, and the Light Tactile having an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Although the actuation forces are relatively close, with the Light Tactile requiring slightly less force, the bottom out forces showcase a slightly greater disparity, with the CM being lighter.
Consideration of weight plays a crucial role when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Light Tactile switch, as it requires slightly less force during actuation. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Alternatively, individuals seeking a more substantial and satisfying typing experience may lean towards the CM switch, as its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Durock Light Tactile has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron CM. Traditionally, a travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the standard, while 3.0mm is seen as more shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Gateron CM with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the Durock Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance for a more satisfying keystroke depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. Starting with sound, the CM switches are described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. This means that they produce a deeper, richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switches are categorized as neutral, meaning they have a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the CM switches are characterized as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. They offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on CM switches provides a seamless and effortless sensation, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys. In contrast, the Light Tactile switches are described as mild and polished. They offer a more gentle typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a less pronounced tactile feel. Similar to the CM switches, the Light Tactile switches also provide a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron CM linear switches are known for their deeper, richer sound with a bouncy typing experience. They provide a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing journey. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switches offer a more angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. They provide a mild typing experience and share a polished feel with the CM switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. If you're looking for a similar result in either sound or feel, choosing the Light Tactile switches may provide a comparable experience with a gentler tactile feel and a neutral sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. The CM switches are known for their bouncy typing experience and a rich, deep sound profile characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched tone. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile switch, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be more suitable. It offers an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. These switches have a mild typing experience and a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, consider the CM switches for a gliding and bassy typing journey, while the Light Tactile switches are perfect for those seeking gentle tactility and a smooth typing experience.
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