Gateron CM vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing, providing a richer sound signature and a smoother typing experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. With a lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM offers a bouncy typing experience that feels effortless and graceful. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch doesn't have a standout feature but is known for its clicky feedback and tactile bump. While the CM switch is described as 'buttery', 'bassy', 'polished', 'thocky', 'low-pitched', 'creamy', and 'frictionless', the Outemu Green doesn't have specific characteristics listed. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Standard
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Outemu Green switches, one can see a clear difference in their top housing materials. While the CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, the Green features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it more suitable for switches with RGB lighting, giving it an edge in terms of aesthetics. Despite these differences, both materials are effective in absorbing sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall.
Moving on to the bottom housing comparison, it is evident that both the CM and Green switches use nylon in this component. This choice is consistent with the desire to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties. By using the same material for the bottom housing, both switches ensure a consistent sound and feel when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights the importance of sound absorption in switch design, as it can significantly impact the overall sound profile of the switch.
When considering the impact of having different top and bottom housing materials in a switch, it becomes clear that each material contributes unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing is more influential on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. By utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housing, switch manufacturers are able to fine-tune the sound and feel of their switches to cater to specific preferences. Overall, whether using nylon or polycarbonate in the housing materials, both the Gateron CM and the Outemu Green switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that there is a notable difference in the actuation and bottom out forces. The CM linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Green clicky switch's heavier 65 grams. Similarly, the CM switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Green switch requires a more substantial 80 grams to bottom out. This means that the CM switch offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Green switch provides a more robust push feel, suited for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, we find that the CM has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Green has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The CM's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Green switch's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, with the CM feeling more abrupt and the Green feeling more deliberate. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for the desired travel distance in a keyboard switch.
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 Green 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 known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched qualities, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This switch offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, information about the sound qualities of the Outemu Green clicky switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The factory lubing of these switches contributes to their smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no information available about the feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch, making it challenging to contrast this aspect between the two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its rich sound signature, smooth typing journey, and bouncy typing experience, along with its bassy and buttery qualities. On the other hand, details about the Outemu Green clicky switch are not provided, making it hard to directly compare the subjective qualities of the two switches. However, based on the available information, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a premium typing experience with its unique sound and feel characteristics, making it a noteworthy option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Outemu Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a deeper sound profile, then the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch, then the Outemu Green clicky switch would be more to your liking. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Remember to try out different switches if possible to find the one that best suits your typing needs.
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