Gateron CM vs. KTT Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the KTT Orange. The CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, delivering a deeper and richer sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches provide an effortlessly smooth typing experience, almost like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, their lengthened, dual-staged spring offers a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches feature a polycarbonate milky top housing, a long pole POM stem, and a vibrant orange nylon bottom housing. Known for their slick and frictionless typing experience, these switches provide a low-pitched sound profile. With excellent factory-lubing, the KTT Orange switches offer refined and fluid key travel. Overall, both switches have their own distinct characteristics and advantages. 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

Gateron CM Linear

KTT Orange Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CM and KTT Orange switches differ in their housing materials. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Orange's top housing is beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique acoustic experiences and can enhance the typing experience in their own ways.

In terms of the bottom housing, the CM and Orange switches also differ. The CM uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile as its top housing. Again, the softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Orange utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. As with its top housing, polycarbonate brings a sharper and crisper sound to the switch. This stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, both bottom housings contribute to the overall feel and sound when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.

It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's qualities will be felt, while the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing. Therefore, understanding the housing materials of switches like the Gateron CM and KTT Orange provides insight into the unique sound profiles and tactile experiences they offer.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The CM has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Orange has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams. This means that the Orange requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the CM. Additionally, the CM has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Orange has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams. This indicates that the CM requires more force to fully press down compared to the Orange.

Considering weight, these differences in force can significantly impact the typing experience. The CM's medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces may be preferred by individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Orange's medium-light actuation and bottom out forces make it a lighter option, allowing users to type for longer periods of time without excessive strain.

While the CM and Orange differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, individuals seeking similar results can choose an option closer to their preference. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Orange offers a lower actuation and bottom out force. Similarly, if a stronger push feel is desired, the medium-heavy forces of the CM would provide the desired experience. In either case, the individual's typing experience can be tailored to their specific preferences and needs.

Travel distance

The Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch both have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. The Gateron CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. These shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the Gateron CM would provide a slightly deeper key press, whereas the KTT Orange would offer a slightly quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a deeper or shallower key press. However, it is important to note that both switches provide a shorter travel distance compared to the more traditional options.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CM switches deliver a deeper and richer sound profile. They have a bassy and thocky sound, which provides a satisfying depth and resonance during key presses. The low-pitched tone adds to the mellow and bass-heavy characteristics of these switches. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches also have a low-pitched sound profile, but the specific sound characteristics are not described. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the CM switches offer a bassy and thocky sound, the Orange switches are known for their low-pitched tone without further details.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM switches provide a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience. Their smooth and fluid keystroke makes for a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch's polished and refined finish, along with factory lubrication, reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. The CM switches offer a creamy and silky sensation, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are described as bouncy and frictionless. They provide a lively feedback with a spring-like or elastic sensation, giving a rebound when pressed. Similar to the CM switches, the Orange switches also offer a frictionless and smooth typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron CM and KTT Orange switches offer different subjective qualities. The CM switches are known for their deeper and richer sound profile, evoking a bassy and thocky tone. Their buttery, polished, and creamy feel ensures a seamless and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Orange switches provide a low-pitched sound profile without further details. They offer a bouncy and frictionless feel, with a lively feedback and smooth key travel. While the CM switches promise a rich sound and buttery feel, the Orange switches offer a low-pitched sound and a bouncy typing sensation. However, it is worth mentioning that the specific sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the CM and Orange switches have their distinct qualities, with the available information, it is possible to achieve similar results in sound and feel from both switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CM could be the right choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches deliver a rich and deep sound signature, providing a unique typing experience that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. The CM switches also offer a bouncy typing experience, thanks to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Orange switches might be more suitable. These switches feature a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and an orange nylon bottom housing, giving them a sleek look. With excellent factory lubing, the Orange switches offer a frictionless typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile. They also provide a bouncy feel, giving you a lively sensation with each key press. So, depending on your preference for bottom out force and typing experience, you can choose between the Gateron CM and the KTT Orange switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more