Gateron CM vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the KTT MoonRosa mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CM, with its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, delivers a rich sound signature and smooth typing experience. This switch provides a bouncy typing journey thanks to its lengthened, dual-staged spring, and is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press', this switch provides a different typing feel compared to the Gateron CM. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
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 spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa features POM for both its top and bottom housing, which also produces a pleasing and deep sound profile, albeit more muted than the nylon of the CM. Both switches offer a similar experience in terms of sound depth, but the materials used contribute to slightly different qualities in the overall typing experience.
In terms of the top housing, the Gateron CM's nylon offers a sound profile that is on the deeper side, while the KTT MoonRosa's POM housing provides a relatively more muted sound. The nylon top housing of the CM creates a fuller and deeper typing sound, whereas the POM top housing of the MoonRosa delivers a more unique and pleasing sound. However, despite these differences, both switches aim to offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective top housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound profile.
Similarly, the bottom housing of these switches plays a crucial role in the typing experience. The Gateron CM's nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound when the key is pressed down, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa's POM bottom housing also influences the typing sound, creating a deeper and more muted profile. Despite their differences in material, both switches offer a comparable typing experience with their bottom housing materials, showcasing how the choice of housing material can affect the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force for the CM switch is 63.5 grams, while the MoonRosa switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Gateron CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the KTT MoonRosa switch offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. Both switches are suitable for different preferences, as some may enjoy the lighter weight for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier weight for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference based on the actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users looking for a more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance as it can lead to faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches to be noticeable. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and KTT MoonRosa switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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 best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. This sound signature is further enhanced by the full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch is noted for its low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sound, but the CM switch may offer a deeper and richer tone overall.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless attributes, creating a smooth and effortless typing experience. The combination of a nylon housing and dual-staged spring provides a bouncy and gliding sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with gentle resistance and light actuation force. While the CM switch focuses on smoothness and fluidity, the MoonRosa switch aims to provide a comfortable and accessible typing feel for users.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch excels in providing a deep, rich sound profile and a buttery smooth typing experience, while the MoonRosa switch focuses on a more gentle typing experience with a mellow sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, but the CM switch may be preferred for those seeking a more robust and luxurious typing sensation. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different boards and keycaps will help determine which one best suits individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bouncy typing experience, and a deeper, bassy sound profile, the Gateron CM switch with its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a buttery smooth typing experience, and a more neutral sound signature, the KTT MoonRosa switch with its all-POM construction could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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