Gateron CM vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Orange stand out as two compelling options, both classified as linear switches. The Gateron CM is celebrated for its innovative design, featuring a full nylon housing that produces a rich, deep sound signature, enhanced by an impeccable factory lubrication that ensures a buttery smooth typing experience. Its unique, lengthened dual-staged spring provides a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate a tactile feel while maintaining quiet operation. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange, a revival of the beloved original switches, incorporates modern enhancements to meet contemporary demands, offering reliability and a balance of performance that many gamers and typists favor. While both switches provide a linear feel ideal for quiet and unimpeded typing, they exhibit distinctly different auditory and tactile experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Orange switches, it's noteworthy to mention that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon, being a classic choice in the mechanical keyboard industry, contributes to a unique acoustic profile that is favored by many typists. The properties of nylon, as they pertain to both switches, allow for a deeper and fuller sound. This similarity means that users of either switch can expect a pronounced and rounded auditory experience that is less pronounced with harder plastics. Consequently, whether opting for Gateron or Cherry, typists can enjoy a similar auditory feedback, making both switches appealing for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Delving deeper into the specifics, the sound-absorbing quality of nylon presents an interesting aspect of both the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Orange switches. Since the same material is employed in both the top and bottom housings, the tactile feedback that both switches provide is also comparable. The overall typing experience is enhanced by the dual nylon construction, which diminishes high-frequency noise. This characteristic ensures that both options deliver a subdued yet pleasing auditory profile, reinforcing the aesthetic of a more refined typing experience. Users can appreciate the nuanced differences that each switch might offer, but in essence, the sound signature remains predominantly consistent due to the shared material.
However, it's important to note that while the nylon composition remains constant between the two, the specific design and construction of the switches can still lead to variations in tactile feedback and sound profile. If the top and bottom housings were to differ, the distinct characteristics each material contributes would influence the overall experience. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing is crucial for the sound emitted upon releasing a key. Therefore, despite the shared nylon material, the user experience may vary subtly based on how each switch is constructed and designed. Overall, those who prioritize sound and feel in their typing experience will find both the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Orange appealing options with notable similarities.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, both switches feature an actuation force of 55 grams, making them equally easy to trigger. However, the Gateron CM has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more force to press the key all the way down compared to the MX Orange, which unfortunately has an unavailable bottom out force. This suggests that the Gateron CM linear switch is slightly heavier overall, providing a more substantial feel upon bottoming out. For users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, both switches offer similar actuation forces, but those who appreciate a firmer and heavier touch might lean towards the Gateron CM due to its higher bottom out resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Gateron CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Cherry MX Orange features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that users seeking quicker response times might prefer the Gateron CM, as its more abbreviated travel may feel more responsive for fast-paced gaming. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial keypress and a deeper feel may find the Cherry MX Orange's longer 4 mm travel distance more satisfying. Both switches serve different preferences, with the Gateron CM catering to those who enjoy brisk actuation and the Cherry MX Orange appealing to those who appreciate a sense of depth in their keystrokes.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 stands out with its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, delivering a deeper and richer sound profile during each keystroke. This creates an auditory experience that evokes a satisfying depth reminiscent of bass tones. The CM switches provide a low-frequency thud or soft knock when pressed and released, giving users a notable tactile feedback in addition to the audible signal. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange does not have specific sound descriptors presented, but it is important to acknowledge that the sound of any switch is affected by other factors, including the choice of the keyboard board and the keycaps used, which may or may not lead to a comparable auditory experience with the CM switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch excels with its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless qualities, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience. The factory lube job enhances the switch’s performance, providing a seamless typing sensation that feels refined and well-crafted. Users can expect a gliding experience as their fingers move gracefully over the keys, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch does not have specific descriptors for its feel provided in the information available, making it difficult to gauge how it compares directly on this front. However, it is worth noting that both switches belong to the linear category, which typically emphasizes smoothness and consistency in keystrokes.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CM linear switch offers a notably rich sound profile and a luxurious typing feel that is uniquely characterized by its unique production quality, the Cherry MX Orange lacks specific descriptors which makes a direct comparison a challenge. The CM's thocky sound and silky feel could allure users who value auditory and tactile feedback in their typing experience. Nevertheless, both switches could still deliver a satisfying user experience, particularly due to their linear design. Thus, your satisfaction may depend largely on personal preference, the type of keyboard used, and specific lube and keycap choices that influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-heavy actuation force and enjoy a notably rich and deep sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch is an excellent choice. Its full nylon housing contributes to a thocky, bassy auditory experience, complemented by impeccable factory lubing that ensures an extraordinarily smooth keystroke. This makes it particularly well-suited for those who value a refined tactile sensation combined with an immersive sound environment, whether you’re typing for work or indulging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more classic linear feel without a significant emphasis on sound characteristics or if you resonate with the nostalgic lineage of Cherry switches, the Cherry MX Orange may be the way to go, despite its absence in detailed specifications like actuation force. Each option has its strengths; therefore, reflect on what aspects of the typing experience matter most to you—be it sound, feel, or the weight of the switch—before making your decision.
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