Gateron CM vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron CM and the Outemu Tom. The CM stands out for its unique full nylon housing, which enhances sound quality and offers a smooth typing experience thanks to its factory lube job. With a lengthened, dual-staged spring, users can expect a bouncy typing sensation with each keystroke. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the CM switch provides a luxurious and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom switch lacks distinct features but still offers a tactile typing experience. If looking for a switch with smoother movement and rich sound, the CM may be the preferred choice. 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
55g
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
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
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and Outemu Tom switches have distinct characteristics that influence the sound and feel of typing. The Gateron CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Outemu Tom incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the key switches.
Both the Gateron CM and Outemu Tom switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with their softer plastic composition. This similarity in the bottom housing material results in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches. However, the top housing materials of nylon in the CM and polycarbonate in the Tom offer contrasting sound characteristics, with nylon producing a duller and rounder sound compared to the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate.
The division of different housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as sound profile and feel upon bottoming out, are more pronounced during key presses. Conversely, the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the distinct characteristics of each material throughout the typing process. While the Gateron CM and Outemu Tom switches may share similar bottom housing materials, the contrasting top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force is the same for both at 55 grams. However, the bottom out force differs between the two. The Gateron CM has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Outemu Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The weight of a switch is important as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Gateron CM would be considered the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force compared to the Outemu Tom. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Tom has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CM. Generally, shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances provide a more satisfying feel for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Tom 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 is well-regarded for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, which provides a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. This is achieved through its full nylon housing and factory lube job, resulting in a satisfying sound reminiscent of bass tones. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, leaving it unknown how it sounds in comparison. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, along with the reduced friction and effortless key travel, make typing on these switches a seamless and enjoyable process. In contrast, the tactile feel of the Outemu Tom switch is unspecified, so it is unclear how it would compare in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort. Similar to sound, the feel of a switch is influenced by various factors, including the switch design and lubrication.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a deep and rich sound profile, along with a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to its nylon housing, factory lube job, and dual-staged spring design. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch remain unknown, it can be inferred that the Gateron CM linear switch provides a more detailed and specified typing experience. Whether looking for a specific sound profile or a particular typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities for enthusiasts to explore.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a full nylon housing for a rich sound signature, a smooth typing experience with a bouncy feel, and a sound profile described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, then the Gateron CM linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unspecified bottom out force, and no specific sound or feel descriptors provided, the Outemu Tom tactile switch might be worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel when choosing between these two switches.
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