Gateron CM vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CM and TTC Neptune are both linear switches that offer unique characteristics for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The CM stands out with its full nylon housing, providing a richer sound signature and smooth typing experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged spring. It offers a bouncy typing sensation and is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', and 'Creamy'. On the other hand, the Neptune features an innovative internal structure that combines a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. Its ultralight build ensures swift typing, while its muted sound signature adds a refined touch to the typing experience. Categorized as 'Gummy', 'Muted', and 'Thocky', the Neptune offers a unique "matte" feel with every keystroke. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the TTC Neptune, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The CM's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Neptune's POM top housing provides a unique and pleasing sound with a deeper and relatively more muted tone. In terms of the bottom housing, the CM's nylon material also contributes to a duller and rounder sound, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper, crisper, and higher-pitched sound profile.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron CM and the TTC Neptune switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing compositions. The nylon top housing of the CM switch creates a fuller and deeper sound, while the POM top housing of the Neptune switch produces a relatively muted yet pleasing sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the CM switch results in a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune switch delivers a clear and resonant sound profile. Overall, while each switch offers its own distinct sound characteristics, both provide satisfying typing experiences for users.
It is essential to understand the impact that each housing material has on the overall sound and feel of a switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it is made of nylon or POM, influences the sound when a key is released. By utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings, manufacturers can create switches with unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences. Whether it is the softer nylon of the Gateron CM or the stiffer polycarbonate of the TTC Neptune, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that can be tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the CM switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Neptune offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the CM switch caters to those who prefer a heavier actuation force for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, with the lighter force of the Neptune and the heavier force of the CM providing users with options to suit their typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Neptune has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Neptune may be the better option due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 bassy and thocky experience with a low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich sound during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and subdued sound, with a muted and neutral profile that minimizes noise and keeps the auditory ambiance refined. Both switches have a thocky characteristic, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, you can expect a unique and enjoyable sound profile from either switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless sensation with reduced friction and seamless key travel. The TTC Neptune linear switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery and frictionless feel, with a gummy and mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, ensuring a pleasant typing journey with each press.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its bouncy typing experience, rich sound signature, and smooth typing journey, thanks to its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a harmonious balance of smoothness and springy resistance, with a matte feel that adds texture to every keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. With similar characteristics in certain aspects, you can expect a comparable level of quality and performance from both the Gateron CM and TTC Neptune linear switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a rich, deep sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a smooth, almost frictionless glide combined with a unique "matte" feel, the TTC Neptune switch could be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer a sound profile that is characterized as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, the Gateron CM switch may suit your auditory preferences. However, if you prefer a low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile, the TTC Neptune switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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