Gateron CM vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the KTT Mint are two intriguing options that offer distinct qualities for typing enthusiasts. On one hand, the CM switches defy convention with their full nylon housing, resulting in a richer, deeper sound signature and a smoother typing experience thanks to the impeccable factory lube job. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, these CM switches provide a bouncy and effortless sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Mint switches boast a satisfyingly smooth linear feel, enhanced by their long pole stem that delivers a poppy thockiness during typing. Additionally, the Mint switches offer a light and fleeting type feel, perfect for those who prefer a more delicate touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the KTT Mint have contrasting housing materials in terms of their top housing. The CM features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and higher sound absorption. In contrast, the Mint utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate's stiffer nature leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Mint's polycarbonate top housing is particularly useful for RGB lighting enthusiasts due to its translucency, while the CM's nylon top housing does not offer this feature. Though different, these materials produce distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, resulting in similar qualities for the switches. Both the CM and the Mint elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound for both switches. As a result, when pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound when typing on both the Gateron CM and the KTT Mint.
Overall, the top housing materials of the Gateron CM and the KTT Mint differentiate the sound profiles of the switches. The nylon top housing of the CM produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Mint delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mint offers the advantage of being translucent, which is ideal for those who wish to use RGB lighting. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when pressing down on the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is clear that there are some notable differences. The Gateron CM switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Mint's 45 grams, making it slightly more resistant to unintentional keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the CM requires a force of 63.5 grams, while the Mint only requires 53 grams. This means that the Mint provides a lighter and easier typing experience when pressing the keys all the way down.
Considering the weight of the switches, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mint switch, as it allows for longer and more comfortable typing sessions, making it ideal for those who type for extended periods at work or engage in marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for the Gateron CM switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the KTT Mint linear switch, providing a more resistant keystroke and a firmer typing experience. Conversely, the Mint switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, allowing for a smoother and easier typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch in terms of travel distance, we can see that the CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mint has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mint has the longer travel distance. The CM falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. These shorter distances provide a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper typing experience may find the Mint's longer travel distance more satisfying, as it provides a greater sense of tactile depth. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, more responsive distance or a longer, more substantial feel.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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
The Gateron CM linear switch is known for its distinctive sound characteristics. It has a bassy sound profile, which means that it offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The sound can be described as a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the CM switch produces a thocky sound, which is a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Overall, the sound of the CM switch can be characterized as low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience and a unique poppy thockiness. This switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which is characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the Mint switch provides a light and fleeting typing feel, giving a sense of quick and effortless key presses. Although specific sound descriptors for the Mint switch are not provided, its low-pitched sound and light typing feel contribute to a satisfying and pleasant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the CM switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The switch's factory lube job enhances the smoothness, resulting in a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Similarly, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as having a mild and polished feel. A mild switch offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. The polished finish contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CM switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound with a buttery, polished, and creamy feel, the Mint switch offers a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and enjoyable typing experiences, making them suitable for users looking for a smooth and satisfying mechanical keyboard switch. Keep in mind that the final sound and feel are also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more pronounced and rich sound profile, the CM switch would be a great choice for you. With its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound characteristics, typing on the CM switch will provide a deeper and more satisfying sound experience. Additionally, the CM switch offers a buttery, polished, and creamy typing feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a more gentle and approachable typing experience, the Mint switch might be more suitable for you. With its low-pitched and neutral sound characteristics, typing on the Mint switch will offer a mellow and balanced sound profile. The Mint switch also provides a mild and polished typing feel, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke experience.
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, take into consideration the desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that aligns with your preferences. Both switches offer their unique qualities, so make sure to explore and consider your personal typing preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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