Gateron CM vs. Outemu Milk Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Milk Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM, a linear switch, and the Outemu Milk Peach, also a linear switch. The Gateron CM stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a unique sound signature that is rich and deep. With a factory lube job ensuring smoothness, typing on these switches feels effortless and graceful, thanks to their lengthened, dual-staged spring design. This switch is often described as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach offers a quieter typing experience with no specific standout features. While the Gateron CM focuses on delivering a tactile and bouncy feel, the Milk Peach may appeal to those looking for a simpler and quieter typing experience. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Outemu Milk Peach switches, we see a clear difference in the top housing material used. The CM features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Milk Peach utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gateron CM and the Outemu Milk Peach switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as the qualities of the bottom housing have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron CM and the Outemu Milk Peach switches results in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback for users. While the CM's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, the Milk Peach's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches ensures a consistent typing experience, with the bottom housing material impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer the softer, more absorptive qualities of nylon in the CM or the clear, crisper sound profile of polycarbonate in the Milk Peach, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch with 45 grams. However, the Gateron CM has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams while the bottom out force for the Milk Peach is unknown. In terms of weight, the Gateron CM can be considered medium-heavy, providing a substantial typing experience, while the Milk Peach offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing or a heavier bottom out force for a more pronounced typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, it is evident that the CM has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Milk Peach's 3.3 mm. The CM provides a slightly deeper key press feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key travel. On the other hand, the Milk Peach offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for individuals looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent years for their enhanced responsiveness. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the depth of key travel desired.
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 Milk Peach 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. This is emphasized by the full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, creating a smooth and satisfying sound akin to a deep "thud" or soft "knock." On the other hand, information about the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch's sound qualities is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of typing, the Gateron CM linear switch excels with its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless characteristics. Typing on these switches offers a seamless and effortless experience, with a smooth and refined finish that minimizes friction and provides fluid key travel. The lengthened, dual-staged spring in the CM switches contributes to a bouncy typing sensation, making each keystroke feel polished and satisfying. Unfortunately, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch are unavailable, making it challenging to compare the two directly.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its rich sound signature, smooth typing journey, and bouncy typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch are unknown, it is likely that both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, you should opt for the Gateron CM if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bouncy typing experience with a smooth and buttery feel, and a deep and rich sound profile characterized by bassy, thocky, and low-pitched tones. The full nylon housing and factory lube job of the CM switches promise a premium typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, it may be better to go for the Outemu Milk Peach switch. However, the lack of available information on the sound and feel of the Milk Peach may make it a less predictable choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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