Gateron CM vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, both of which are linear switches. The CM switch sets itself apart with a full nylon housing, providing a rich and deep sound signature that is complemented by an impeccable factory lube job for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 from Everglide offers a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, along with a unique light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. While the CM switch leans towards a 'Buttery' and 'Low-pitched' feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is more 'Clacky' and 'High-pitched'. Both switches promise a seamless typing experience, each with its own distinct characteristics. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The CM's nylon top and bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate top and bottom housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a distinct auditory experience depending on the housing material used.
In terms of aesthetics, the Everglide Lighting Silver V3's polycarbonate housing stands out with its translucency, making it ideal for switches intended to be paired with RGB lighting. The clear polycarbonate top housing allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Gateron CM's nylon housing may not offer the same visual impact, but its classic and understated design still appeals to users looking for a reliable and timeless switch option.
While the Gateron CM and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 may vary in their housing materials and resulting sound profiles, both switches offer quality typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with the CM's nylon housing or a sharper and crisper sound profile with the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate housing, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound, aesthetics, and overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Lightning Silver V3 is the lighter option. The Lightning Silver V3 has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the CM's 55 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Lightning Silver V3 is also lighter at 60 grams, whereas the CM has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches provide a medium typing experience, but for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the better choice. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Gateron CM may be the preferred option with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the CM's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times, the difference of 0.2 mm may not be significant for most users. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance which may appeal to those seeking quick key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the slight variation in travel distance.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is noted for being clacky and high-pitched, delivering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. Ultimately, the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider the overall setup for the desired sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with reduced friction and seamless key travel. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches aim to deliver a seamless and effortless typing journey, but with slightly different nuances in terms of feel due to their unique design and construction.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its full nylon housing, bouncy typing experience, and rich sound signature, making it a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and deep typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch offers a clacky sound, seamless typing experience, and enhanced RGB illumination with its light diffuser, appealing to users looking for a vibrant and responsive feel. While each switch has its own distinctive qualities in sound and feel, both options promise a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, the CM switch with its full nylon housing and dual-staged spring may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and seamless typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 switch with its light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination might be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and which sound profile resonates with you the most.
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