Gateron CM vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron CM, a linear switch, stands out for its full nylon housing that delivers a rich and deep sound signature, along with an impeccably smooth typing experience thanks to factory lube job. The lengthened, dual-staged spring in the CM switches provides a bouncy typing sensation that feels effortless and graceful. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, does not have any specific standout features but is known for its tactile feedback. While the CM switch is described as 'buttery,' 'bassy,' 'polished,' 'thocky,' 'low-pitched,' 'creamy,' and 'frictionless,' the Crystal Brown switch does not have any specific descriptors. When choosing between these two switches, the CM switch may appeal to those looking for a smoother typing experience with a rich sound, while the Crystal Brown switch may suit users who prefer tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
The Gateron CM and Outemu Crystal Brown switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. In contrast, while the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, the top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials between the two switches results in a noticeable distinction in sound when typing.
On the aesthetic side, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Crystal Brown allows for more light transmission, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gateron CM's all-nylon housing provides a more classic look without the translucency of polycarbonate. While both switches have nylon bottom housings, they offer slightly different sound profiles due to the contrasting top housing materials. The Gateron CM's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of functionality, the split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch affects both the sound profile and feel when typing. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CM and Outemu Crystal Brown switches, the overall typing experience may be comparable in terms of sound quality due to the similar nylon bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the CM linear switch will require more force to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the CM linear switch has a heavier force of 63.5 grams, while the Crystal Brown tactile switch has a lighter force of 55 grams. This indicates that the CM switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel compared to the Crystal Brown switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch would be the better option. Both switches, however, fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feedback and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the CM switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal Brown switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance can lead to faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying "click" feeling for some users. Both switches offer different travel distances, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for keypress 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 Outemu Crystal Brown 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 is characterized by its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. The use of a full nylon housing provides a unique sound signature, enhanced further by the impeccable factory lube job. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch lacks specific sound descriptors, suggesting a more neutral or traditional sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, promising a seamless and effortless journey with every keystroke. The lengthened, dual-staged spring contributes to a bouncy typing sensation, making for a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch. Without explicit descriptors, it may be assumed to offer a more standard tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth typing feel, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch remain unknown, it can be inferred that it may provide a more traditional typing experience compared to the distinct characteristics of the Gateron CM switch. Ultimately, both switches are likely to offer a satisfactory typing experience, with users achieving similar results in terms of sound and feel depending on personal preferences and setup variables.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a rich and deep sound profile, then the Gateron CM linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and prioritize a smooth and tactile typing sensation, then the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch would suit your preferences better. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and overall typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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