Gateron CM vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mountain Top, both linear switches. The CM switch breaks away from traditional polycarbonate housings with a full nylon housing, offering a richer sound and smoother typing experience. With a dual-staged spring design, typing on the CM switch feels bouncy and graceful, making it ideal for those who enjoy a buttery, low-pitched typing feel. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is tailored for office environments, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience that is perfect for professional settings. With an emphasis on discretion and light actuation, the Mountain Top switch is categorized as bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle. 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
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mountain Top are essentially the same, with both switches utilizing nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is favored by many keyboard enthusiasts.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, the Gateron CM and the Gateron Mountain Top may still exhibit some subtle differences in sound and feel. The top housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. Therefore, even with the same housing material, slight variations in the design or construction of the two switches could lead to nuanced differences in typing experience.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron CM or the Gateron Mountain Top, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel due to the shared use of nylon as the housing material. Both switches will offer a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of nylon housing, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a quieter and more rounded sound when typing on their keyboard.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch. The CM requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 63.5 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Mountain Top only needs 40 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter alternative. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the CM switch, while users looking for a lighter touch may find the Mountain Top more comfortable. Both switches offer different weight options, catering to individuals who have varying preferences. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the CM switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the feel of the key press.
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 Mountain Top 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 offers a deep and rich bassy sound profile, providing a satisfying thocky sound during key presses. The low-pitched tones create a unique typing experience that resonates with each keystroke, making for a distinctive auditory journey. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is designed for a more neutral sound profile, catering to office settings where a quiet yet present typing experience is preferred. The balance of subdued sound with moderate actuation force makes the Mountain Top switch a versatile option for professional environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound experience, with the CM offering a more impactful and bass-heavy option compared to the subtle and neutral tones of the Mountain Top.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a buttery and polished typing experience, with a creamy and frictionless sensation that makes each keystroke feel smooth and effortless. The factory lube job enhances the overall feel of the switch, ensuring a consistent and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with mild and snappy characteristics that promote responsive typing with minimal resistance. The subtle and gentle qualities of the Mountain Top switch make it suitable for extended typing sessions in office settings, prioritizing comfort and low-impact typing. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the CM focusing on smoothness and polish, while the Mountain Top emphasizes responsiveness and ease of use.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its deep and rich sound profile, coupled with a buttery and polished typing feel that emphasizes smoothness and fluidity. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch provides a neutral and quiet sound profile, paired with a bouncy and easy-to-press typing feel that prioritizes responsiveness and comfort. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and environments, ensuring that users can find the right balance of sound and feel for their typing needs. Whether opting for the CM's bassy and thocky tones or the Mountain Top's subtle and snappy feedback, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that appeal to your typing preferences. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bassy, thocky sound profile, and a buttery, polished typing feel, the Gateron CM linear switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a bouncy, easy-to-press typing feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch could better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you desire and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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