Gateron CM vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CM and Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches offer unique experiences for users seeking different typing styles. The CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing, providing a rich and deep sound while offering effortless smoothness with each keystroke. Its bouncy typing experience, thanks to the lengthened, dual-staged spring, makes it a popular choice for those looking for a buttery and bassy feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a more subtle tactility, perfect for office settings where a muted sound profile is preferred. Its lightweight design and gentle keystroke feedback make it ideal for long hours of comfortable typing without disruption. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mini i use nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings, providing a deep and full sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics. As a result, typing on both switches should provide a similar auditory experience, as the nylon housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound produced by the switches.
However, while the housing materials of the Gateron CM and Gateron Mini i are the same, the design of each switch may impact the overall typing experience. The placement of the nylon housing, whether it be the top or the bottom, can influence factors such as the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound upon key release. Differences in the switch design could potentially affect how the nylon housing material interacts with the internal components, resulting in variations in typing feedback and sound profile between the two switches.
Ultimately, despite potential differences in design, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mini i ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. The deep and fuller sound produced by the nylon helps create a unique auditory feedback that may be preferred by typists looking for a more satisfying typing experience. So while the switches may have differences in other aspects, the choice of nylon as the housing material remains a unifying factor in providing a similar overall typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Gateron CM has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option. This means that the Gateron Mini i will require less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Gateron CM. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Mini i may be the preferred choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Gateron CM may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users should not notice a significant variation in feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, whether you choose the CM or Mini i switch will depend on personal preference for a slightly longer or slightly shorter 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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a more neutral sound experience, with a moderate profile suitable for various settings. The CM switch will deliver a more immersive and satisfying auditory experience, while the Mini i switch aims for a balanced and unobtrusive sound output tailored for office environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your preference for sound depth and richness versus a more subtle and versatile sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, emphasizing a smooth and refined typing experience, facilitated by factory lubrication and high-quality components. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped feel, providing a mix of responsive feedback and gentle resistance ideal for extended typing sessions. While the CM switch focuses on delivering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, the Mini i switch aims for a balance between tactile feedback and comfortable typing dynamics. Considering the typing experience you desire, each switch offers distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch present unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch excels in delivering a deeper, bass-heavy sound with a buttery and frictionless typing experience, while the Mini i switch focuses on a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel suitable for office settings. Both switches offer exceptional performance in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying and comfortable typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the CM linear switch or the Mini i tactile switch, you can expect reliable and high-quality performance, with each switch offering a distinct and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you value a richer and deeper sound profile with a bouncy and smooth typing experience, the CM linear switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a gentle tactility, easy-to-press keys, and a more muted sound profile suitable for office environments, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch with its light bottom out force could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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