Gateron CM vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CM and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, you will find yourself faced with a decision between two unique linear switches. The CM stands out for its full nylon housing and smooth typing experience, providing a rich sound signature and bouncy keystrokes. On the other hand, the Nixie is renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing feel, incorporating modern innovations while maintaining a classic appeal. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Cherry Nixie, both switches use nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches that use either the Gateron CM or the Cherry Nixie will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile due to the nature of nylon as a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, users of both switches can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing.
One key difference between the Gateron CM and the Cherry Nixie lies in how the qualities of the nylon housing material are distributed within the switch. In switches where the top and bottom housings are the same, the overall typing experience will be consistent throughout the press and release of a key. However, in switches with different top and bottom housings, such as the Gateron CM and the Cherry Nixie, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the sound and feel when bottoming out a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron CM and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon as their housing material, the distribution of these materials within the switches may affect the typing experience for users. Both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the Gateron CM and the Cherry Nixie may differ in terms of how the top and bottom housings influence the overall sound and feel when typing. Ultimately, enthusiasts may prefer one switch over the other based on their specific preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch differ significantly. The Gateron CM has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie's heavier 63.5 grams. Similarly, the Gateron CM has a lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Cherry Nixie has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Gateron CM provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie offers a more substantial and forceful typing feel, which some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The CM's smaller travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Nixie's longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their respective travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying experience during key presses. The low-pitched tone of these switches provides a mellow and bass-heavy sound that resonates with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch also offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving users a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, with slight variations in the depth and richness of the sound based on individual preferences and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, and creamy, offering a smooth, refined, and frictionless typing experience. The seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation of typing on these switches is enhanced by the factory lube job and high-quality materials used in their construction. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch provides a textured typing experience, featuring noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of these switches, while others may lean towards a smoother, friction-free feel.
Overall, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The CM switch stands out for its bassy sound profile and buttery smooth typing experience, while the Nixie switch is revered for its thocky sound and textured feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound depth, richness, and texture, as well as typing sensation, users can choose between these two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience. While there are subtle differences in sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and quality from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy, smooth typing experience with a rich, bassy sound profile, the Gateron CM switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured, thocky typing experience with a deep, rich sound profile, the Cherry Nixie switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics designed to enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
