Gateron CM vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Gateron CM is renowned for its unique full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a smooth typing experience that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. The lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switch also contributes to a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch lacks a specific standout feature but offers a different typing experience with its clicky feedback. While the Gateron CM is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Outemu Blue does not fall under any specific category. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CM and the Outemu Blue switches feature nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material. This allows for a quieter typing experience as the nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a consistent feel and sound when pressing down on the keys.
In contrast, the Gateron CM utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Blue features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Gateron CM's nylon top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This difference in top housing material between the two switches can lead to a noticeably different sound profile when typing.
Overall, while both the Gateron CM and the Outemu Blue switches share nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, their top housing materials create a distinction in sound profile. The Gateron CM's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on your preference for sound and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting, the choice between these switches may come down to the material used in the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Gateron CM requires a slightly heavier touch. The CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The weight of a switch is important to consider, as a lighter touch allows for longer typing sessions, ideal for work or gaming. However, some may prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing feel. In this case, the Gateron CM switch would provide a more robust typing experience compared to the Outemu Blue switch.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the CM has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Blue's 4 mm. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the CM makes it more suitable for those who prioritize quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Blue may appeal more to individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances for mechanical switches, with 4.0mm being the most traditional and 3.0mm being the most shallow. In conclusion, choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for travel distance - whether one prefers a shorter, more responsive press or a longer, more deliberate press.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched qualities, creating a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. This switch is best suited for those who enjoy a satisfyingly deep and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare it to the CM. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The factory-lubed nylon housing contributes to a smooth and refined keystroke experience, making each press feel like gliding gracefully across the keys. While the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is unknown, it's safe to assume that the tactile and audible feedback from the clicky mechanism may provide a more pronounced typing experience compared to the CM's linear switch.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a linear switch with a deep and rich sound profile, as well as a buttery and polished feel, the Gateron CM linear switch would be an excellent choice. While the qualities of the Outemu Blue clicky switch remain unknown, it may offer a louder and more tactile typing experience based on its clicky nature. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your personal typing preferences when choosing between them.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth and buttery typing journey with a bouncy feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky typing sensation with tactile feedback and a satisfying click sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch could be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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