Gateron CM vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Gateron CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing, which provides a deep, bassy sound signature, making for a unique auditory experience. Known for its buttery smoothness and low-pitched, thocky feel, it delivers a typing sensation that feels almost effortless, thanks to its impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged spring that offers a satisfying bounce. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch presents a strikingly different experience, characterized by its bright and clacky sound that can elevate the acoustics of any Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. This switch is particularly appealing for those looking for a lively typing sensation that may provide more feedback than the CM. Ultimately, each switch has its merits: the CM for its plush, smooth typing experience, and the Magnetic Jade for its engaging auditory feedback. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly affects their sound profiles. The CM features a nylon top housing, a classic choice in switch design that absorbs sound more effectively due to its softer plastic characteristics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, creating a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its stiffer nature that produces a clearer and crisper sound profile. The sharper tones of polycarbonate not only enhance the auditory feedback of keystrokes but also complement the aesthetics of RGB lighting, as the transparency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination to shine through.
While the top housings of the CM and Magnetic Jade are distinct, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material. This similarity means that both switches will deliver a deeper and fuller sound at the bottom-out point when pressed, due to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. Consequently, the bottom housing will ensure a consistent auditory experience as users bottom out the keypress, regardless of the different top materials. Therefore, while the sound profiles may vary upon release and key release, the impactful and consistent deeper sound during bottom-out will feel similar across both switches.
In essence, the variation in top housing materials in conjunction with the shared nylon bottom housing creates a unique auditory landscape for each switch. The CM’s nylon top fosters a sound profile that is muted and rounded, while the Magnetic Jade’s polycarbonate top introduces clarity and brightness. This division of sound characteristics means that switching between these two models will provide a range of auditory experiences — from the softer, deeper tones of the CM to the crisp, vibrant output of the Magnetic Jade — yet maintain a similar deep sound at the point of actuation that defines both switches. Thus, each switch caters to different preferences while allowing for a common auditory experience when bottomed out.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which cater to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is lighter, boasting an actuation force of just 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This lighter feel can be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, making it a favorable choice for those who prioritize usability over a strong tactile feedback. Overall, the CM switch is designed for users who enjoy a medium-heavy feel, while the Magnetic Jade provides a medium-light experience, allowing typists to choose according to their preference for either lighter or heavier actuation forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the CM switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Magnetic Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the CM switch the longer option by a marginal amount. For gamers or those who prioritize quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Magnetic Jade may be more appealing due to its potential for increased responsiveness. Conversely, users who enjoy a more substantial and deeper feel while typing may prefer the Gateron CM switch, as its longer travel distance provides that extra depth. Overall, while both switches offer relatively short travel distances that cater to modern preferences, the CM's 3.6 mm distance makes it the better choice for those who value a more profound tactile 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 Magnetic Jade 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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron CM and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, the CM stands out with its deep and rich sounding characteristics. Known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched tones, the CM provides a satisfying auditory experience, resembling the soft thud of a knock with each keystroke. This quality is attributed not only to its unique nylon housing but also to the careful lube job applied at the factory, which enhances its overall acoustic performance. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switches are noted for their bright and clacky sound. However, the specific acoustics of the Magnetic Jade switches are less defined, making a direct comparison difficult. Sound perception can also vary greatly based on the keyboard platform and keycap choice, so both switches may perform differently depending on one’s unique setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM switches excel with a variety of attributes that create a sophisticated typing sensation. Described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, the CM provides an effortlessly smooth keystroke experience, allowing typists to glide gracefully across the keyboard. This level of smoothness is largely due to the factory lubrication and the switch's materials, resulting in a refined and seamless action. On the other hand, the feel of the Magnetic Jade switches remains largely unknown, leaving a gap in the assessment; without specified descriptors, it's challenging to ascertain how they compare to the CM in tactile feedback and typing comfort.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM switches offer a rich acoustic profile and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making them a great choice for anyone seeking depth in sound and feel. The Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, while recognized for their bright sound, lack detailed descriptors regarding their tactile characteristics, leaving room for curiosity. Ultimately, if sound and feel are paramount to your typing experience, the CM switches deliver a well-rounded performance, while the Jade may require further exploration to determine their overall benefits in practice.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force with a rich, deep sound profile and a buttery-smooth typing experience, the CM switch is an excellent choice. Its full nylon housing combined with a factory lube job ensures that each keystroke feels polished and effortless, making it perfect for long typing sessions or use in a professional environment where acoustics matter. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a bright, clacky sound, the Magnetic Jade switch may be more suited to you. Its medium-light actuation force, coupled with the unique characteristics of Hall Effect technology, offers a distinct acoustic and tactile feedback that can enhance your gaming or typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your desire for sound signature, actuation force, and the overall feel that best meets your typing style.
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