Gateron CM vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options come to mind: the Gateron CM and the KTT Lightning. The CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, offering a richer, deeper sound signature and an effortlessly smooth typing experience. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, these switches provide a bouncy and satisfying typing journey. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are known for their approachable "speed" capabilities, making them ideal for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. Typing on these switches offers a slick feel and a clacky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and KTT Lightning switches have different housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The CM features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, giving a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Lightning switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic material. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing, offering a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Both switches, however, share the same nylon bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the nylon top housing. Its softer plastic absorbs sound more effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Therefore, the bottom housing of both switches elicits a similar sound experience, giving a deeper and fuller typing sound.
When considering the overall sound profile, it's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when you release a key. This highlights the significance of the housing materials in determining the overall sound experience of a switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch have notable differences. The Gateron CM switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Lightning's actuation force of 43 grams, making the CM switch require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. Additionally, the Gateron CM switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Lightning's bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer. On the other hand, the Lightning switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In terms of weight, the Gateron CM switch is heavier due to its higher force requirements, while the Lightning switch is lighter. Overall, while the CM switch offers a medium-heavy force experience, the Lightning switch provides a lighter typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that the CM offers a slightly longer distance at 3.6 mm, while the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm. This slight difference may seem negligible, but it can significantly impact the typing or gaming experience depending on personal preferences. For those who prioritize faster response times, the Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke may opt for the CM switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two depends on an individual's personal preferences and whether they prioritize speed or depth in their 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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics. These switches produce a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound can be described as a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and even chirpy. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. The Lightning switch stands out with its unique acoustic signature, adding a little squeak to its sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When discussing the feel of the switches, 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. They have a highly refined finish and reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The CM switch evokes a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke, as they effortlessly melt into each press. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as subtle and polished. It offers a gentle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel while still having a smooth and refined finish. It provides a subtle tactile feedback without being too feather-light. Again, the feel of the switches can be influenced by factors such as lubrication and materials used.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch provides a deeper, richer, and bassy sound profile with a buttery and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning switch has a clacky, high-pitched sound with a subtler feel and a polished finish. While they may differ in their characteristics, both switches offer unique experiences that can enhance the typing journey. It's important to consider personal preference, as well as other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a more unique and immersive typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would be an excellent choice. With its full nylon housing and factory lube job, these switches offer a richer and deeper sound signature, described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Typing on the CMs will feel bouncy and effortless, thanks to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, if speed and precision are your top priorities, the KTT Lightning linear switch is a perfect option. These switches are known for their slick type feel and clacky sound profile, making them particularly suitable for scenarios where milliseconds matter. The Lightning switches provide a light typing feel with a subtle resistance and a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your preferences and priorities for sound and feel.
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