Gateron CM vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often turn to Gateron's offerings, particularly the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mars, both renowned linear switches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Gateron CM stands out with its full nylon housing, which not only breaks from the traditional polycarbonate design but also provides a richer, deeper sound signature. Users who appreciate a smooth and buttery typing experience will be drawn to the CM's impeccable factory lubrication and its innovative dual-staged spring, offering a delightful bounce with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars features a unique blend of Nylon and POM in its construction, which enhances durability while delivering a distinct yet subtle typing feel—potentially appealing to those who favor a balanced combination of softness and resistance. Both switches deliver excellent performance, but their unique designs and sound profiles mean they cater to different user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and Gateron Mars switches, we observe striking similarities in their top housing composition. Both switches utilize nylon for their top housings, a material known for its softer characteristics. This choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon's ability to absorb sound leads to a rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users exploring both switches can expect a similarly muted and pleasant keystroke sound when pressing the keys down and releasing them, thanks to the nylon top housing's shared acoustic properties.
However, the switches diverge significantly concerning their bottom housings. The Gateron CM features a nylon bottom housing, which harmonizes with its top housing to produce a consistent sound profile. This dual nylon construction ensures that both the sound upon bottoming out and the sound profile while letting go of a key are deeply and evenly enriched. In contrast, the Gateron Mars utilizes a POM bottom housing, which brings a distinct acoustic quality. POM is known for producing a unique sound that is still on the deeper side but offers a more muted experience than nylon bottom housings. As a result, while both switches maintain some continuity in sound due to their nylon tops, the differing bottom materials introduce a contrast that influences the overall typing feel and sound signature of each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches leads to a nuanced typing experience for users. The Gateron CM’s consistent nylon composition allows for a coherent sound profile across the entirety of the keystroke, both when pressing down and releasing the key. In contrast, the Gateron Mars’s use of nylon for the top and POM for the bottom means that while the initiating sound remains similar, the bottom-out experience will feel and sound distinct, leading to a more varied auditory landscape. This differentiation emphasizes the importance of housing materials in shaping both the sound and feel of mechanical switches, allowing enthusiasts to choose based on their personal preference for typing acoustics and sensations.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch differ significantly in their actuation forces, reflecting varied preferences for typing experiences. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that users who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing will likely find the CM switch appealing. In contrast, the Mars switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press, which can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Mars switch is currently unknown, leaving a gap in its specifications. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch experience with the Mars will appreciate its lower actuation force, while users wanting a heavier, more tactile experience should lean toward the Gateron CM.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning users can expect a similar feel and performance when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This equal measurement ensures that the keypress experience will be consistent across both switches, making them suitable for users who prefer a linear feel without any tactile feedback. Since both switches offer the same travel distance, anyone using these switches can anticipate a similarly responsive and smooth typing 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 Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 characteristics of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the CM clearly stands out with its rich and deep acoustic profile. It produces a bassy and thocky sound, elevated by its full nylon housing, resulting in a richer sound signature that many enthusiasts appreciate. Each keystroke delivers a lower frequency, evoking a satisfying thud that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, specific sound qualities of the Gateron Mars are not detailed, leaving its auditory experience unknown. However, one can anticipate that the sound profile may not match the CM's depth given its unique stem and housing blend, which usually results in a different acoustic response.
In terms of feel, the CM switch excels with descriptions of buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless sensations. This means users can expect a smooth, effortless typing experience characterized by reduced friction and a fluid keystroke journey. The factory lubrication plays a crucial role in ensuring that these feelings are consistently delivered, giving the CM a luxurious and premium tactile feedback. Unfortunately, the specific feel qualities of the Mars switch are also absent from the information provided, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares to the CM. Therefore, while the CM offers a well-defined tactile experience, the Mars’s feel remains undefined, complicating direct comparisons.
In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch showcases a compelling combination of rich sound and smooth feel, thanks to its robust housing and design. Its audio profile is notable for its bassy and thocky qualities, while the tactile feedback is characterized by a buttery, polished, and frictionless experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars linear switch’s sound and feel qualities remain unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. While both switches offer the prospect of a satisfying typing experience, those looking for a more defined sound and tactile sensation might lean towards the Gateron CM, as its characteristics are well established and appreciated.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, your decision ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you appreciate a medium-heavy bottom-out force combined with a deep, rich sound signature, the CM switch is the superior option. Its unique full nylon housing delivers a bassy and thocky auditory experience, complemented by buttery and frictionless keystrokes that can elevate your typing to a whole new level of enjoyment. This makes it ideal for typists who seek both auditory satisfaction and an engaging tactile feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize innovative designs and are open to exploring new switch technologies, the Gateron Mars might be worth a consideration, especially when more information becomes available about its performance features. Keep in mind that the CM's established reputation for smoothness and rich acoustics makes it a reliable choice for anyone wanting a satisfying and premium typing experience. Ultimately, assess what qualities are most important to you, and let that guide your selection.
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