Gateron CM vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Gateron CM stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer sound signature and a smooth typing experience due to impeccable factory lubrication. With its bouncy and graceful keystrokes, it creates a unique sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response and maximum speed, making it ideal for gamers seeking quick and precise keystrokes. While the CM is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Polished', the MX Speed Silver is labeled as 'Textured' and 'Thocky'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Speed Silver, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar sound profiles. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which effectively absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller auditory experience. The use of nylon in both switches showcases a classic switch housing material that contributes to a satisfying typing experience.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the sound profile and typing experience between the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Speed Silver. For instance, the design of the top and bottom housing components can impact the overall sound and feel of each key press. The bottom housing of a switch often influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing can affect the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing design may result in nuanced variations in typing feel and sound between the two switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Speed Silver may come down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While both switches offer similar benefits in sound profile and typing feel due to their shared use of nylon housing materials, the subtle differences in housing design may be noticeable to discerning users. Whether one prefers a slightly deeper bottom-out sound or a subtle variation in key release sound, the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Speed Silver each offer a unique typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Gateron CM has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 30 grams required for the Cherry MX Speed Silver. This means that the Gateron CM will provide a more substantial typing feel, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver will offer a lighter touch, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron CM has a heavier force of 63.5 grams, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, we can see that the Gateron CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, particularly gamers. The Gateron CM with its 3.6 mm travel distance would provide slightly more depth compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's 3.4 mm, which may feel more abrupt to some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer a deep and rich auditory experience. The CM switch provides a bassy sound profile with a thocky and low-pitched tone, thanks to its nylon housing and factory lube job. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver is also thocky and low-pitched, delivering a satisfying sound during key presses. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM switch offers a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience due to its factory lubrication and smooth key travel. Users can expect a frictionless sensation with these switches, providing a seamless and effortless typing journey. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction when typing. While the CM switch focuses on providing a smooth and lubricated feel, the MX Speed Silver caters to those who appreciate a tactile and textured typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile along with a smooth and buttery typing experience, while the MX Speed Silver offers a rapid response time and a textured feel for users who prefer a bit of friction. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can achieve similar results with either switch, as both provide distinctive characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a richer sound profile with a bassy and thocky tone, combined with a buttery and polished typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if rapid response and maximum speed are essential for your gaming needs, along with a thocky sound profile and a textured typing feel, then the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and performance in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in your typing and gaming experience.
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