Gateron CM vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Durock Piano, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The CM switches are renowned for their unique full nylon housing, which sets them apart from the traditional polycarbonate housings. With this design choice, CM switches deliver a distinct, rich sound signature, giving your typing experience a deeper and more satisfying auditory feedback. Additionally, the impeccable factory lube job ensures a smooth and seamless typing journey, making the CM switches feel as if you are effortlessly gliding with each keystroke. The lengthened, dual-staged spring in these switches also adds a bouncy feel to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switches are highly regarded for their proprietary material blend, making them one of the most enjoyable linear switches to type on. Users often describe a gliding push feel when using the Pianos, coupled with a deep and creamy sound signature. Furthermore, these switches are categorized as bassy, frictionless, and silky, which provides a different typing experience compared to the CM switches. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision and find the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Durock Piano switches exhibit notable similarities and differences. Both switches utilize a classic switch housing material, nylon, for their top housings. This common choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The relatively softer nature of nylon as a plastic allows it to absorb more sound, creating a slightly duller and rounder sound for both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound qualities from both the Gateron CM and the Durock Piano switches due to the shared nylon top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron CM and the Durock Piano switches veer in different directions. The Gateron CM relies on nylon for its bottom housing, aligning with its top housing material. Just like the top housing, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Piano opts for a proprietary POM blend for its bottom housing. Although details about this blend are unknown, it is described as offering a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Therefore, while both switches aim to enhance sound quality through their bottom housings, the specific material choices – nylon for Gateron CM and the undisclosed POM blend for Durock Piano – lead to distinct sound characteristics.
In terms of overall performance, the housing materials play a vital role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. Where the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and tactile experience when pressing down on the keys, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can expect a nuanced typing experience from both the Gateron CM and the Durock Piano switches, where the bottom housing's qualities influence the initial keystroke, and the top housing dominates the sound profile upon key release. Despite the divergence in bottom housing material, both switches strive to deliver a satisfying and deep sound experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Gateron CM is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Durock Piano is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them medium-heavy in this regard.
In terms of weight, the lighter switch allows for longer periods of typing, ideal for those using the keyboard extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. This provides a stronger push feel and can be chosen by those who prefer heavier forces.
While the actuation force of the Gateron CM is known, the actuation force of the Durock Piano is unavailable. Without this information, it is difficult to provide a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of actuation force. However, since both switches have the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it can be inferred that they may provide a similar typing experience when fully pressed down.
In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch has a known actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the actuation force of the Durock Piano linear switch is unknown. However, both switches share the same bottom out force, making them medium-heavy in this aspect. Depending on individual preferences, the lighter actuation force of the Gateron CM may be suitable for prolonged typing, while the heavier force may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch with that of the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The CM switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Piano switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Piano switch falls within the more common 4.0 mm travel distance, while the CM switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize quick response times tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances, making the CM switch a favorable choice for them. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial, deeper keystroke may lean towards the Piano switch due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both options offer their own advantages, ensuring that users will find similar results despite the difference in travel distance.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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, both the Gateron CM and Durock Piano linear switches share the descriptor of "bassy," offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This results in a lower frequency range sound that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, the Gateron CM switches may provide an even deeper and more robust sound due to their full nylon housing, which breaks away from the convention of polycarbonate housings. The Durock Piano switches, on the other hand, have a deep and creamy sound signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM switches offer a variety of descriptors. They are described as "buttery," indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. They are also described as "polished," implying a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be attributed to materials used and/or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Additionally, the CM switches are characterized as "creamy," meaning they offer a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys. Finally, the CM switches are also described as "frictionless," providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction.
On the other hand, the Durock Piano switches are described as "frictionless," offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. They are also described as "silky," enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM and Durock Piano linear switches have their own unique subjective qualities. The CM switches provide a deeper and richer sound signature with their nylon housing, while the Piano switches offer a deep and creamy sound. When it comes to feel, both switches share the characteristic of providing a frictionless typing experience. The CM switches are also described as buttery, polished, and creamy, while the Piano switches are additionally described as silky. These switches promise a smooth and effortless typing journey, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable experience for newcomers. Although there may be slight differences in sound and feel, choosing either switch will result in similar desirable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Durock Piano linear switch, you should take into account the differences in sound and feel.
In terms of sound, both switches are described as "bassy," offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. However, the CM switch also has additional sound characteristics such as being "thocky" and "low-pitched." On the other hand, the Piano switch is solely described as "bassy."
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. The CM switch is described as "buttery," "polished," "creamy," and "frictionless." These descriptors indicate a seamless, uniform, and silky typing sensation. Similarly, the Piano switch is described as "frictionless" and "silky," further enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch comes down to personal preference. If you value a bouncy typing experience with a rich and deep sound profile, the CM switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a gliding push feel and a creamy sound signature, the Piano switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer excellent performance and can enhance your typing journey, so it ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing style.
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