Gateron CM vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and KTT Rose are both linear switches that offer a smooth typing experience. The Gateron CM switches are known for their full nylon housing, which provides a richer and deeper sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. These switches also come with an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring effortless typing and a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches stand out for their beautiful design and the use of progressive springs, which create a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. Typing on these switches evokes a sense of bassy raindrops. While these general pointers shed light on the unique features of each switch, let's dive deeper to help you decide on the switch that best suits your needs.
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the KTT Rose switches differ significantly. The CM features a nylon top housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Rose switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Rose switch's polycarbonate top housing is beneficial for those looking to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the CM and the Rose switches use nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer composition allows for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. By utilizing nylon in their bottom housing, both the CM and the Rose switches offer a similar typing experience, allowing for a satisfying tactile response.
While the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the KTT Rose switches differ for their top housings, they share the same nylon bottom housing. As a result, both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The bottom housing material has a more substantial impact on the overall sound and feel when pressing down the keys compared to the top housing. However, it should be noted that when releasing a key, the difference in top housing materials may contribute to a variation in sound. Nonetheless, users can still expect a similar experience in terms of sound and feel due to the shared nylon bottom housing in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the CM switch is on the lighter side with an actuation force of 55 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the Rose switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to compare directly. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This means that regardless of the actuation force of the Rose switch, once it is triggered, the typing experience in terms of pressing all the way down will be similar to that of the CM switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences, with the CM providing a lighter touch and the Rose potentially offering a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The KTT Rose linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron CM linear switch. The 4 mm travel distance of the Rose switch falls within the range of traditional travel distances, providing a familiar feel to users. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. This shorter travel distance can enhance overall responsiveness during intense gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press feel, the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Rose linear switch may be more suitable. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these two switches.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 best characterized as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. These switches have a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound produced during key presses can be described as a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch is also low-pitched in sound. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide a pleasant and satisfactory auditory experience, with the CM switches offering a slightly deeper and fuller sound. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is often referred to as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The keystrokes feel uniform and glide effortlessly, thanks to the smooth and refined finish of the switch. The factory lube job further reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Rose linear switch also offers a polished typing experience. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The typing experience is gentle and approachable for most individuals due to its mild characteristics. Both switches provide a sleek and satisfying tactile feel during typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch offer comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, delivering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. They also provide a smooth, polished, and refined typing experience, offering reduced friction and effortless key travel. While the CM switches are described as buttery, creamy, and frictionless, the Rose switches are referred to as mild and polished. Therefore, if you're looking for a linear switch with rich sound and a smooth typing feel, either option can provide similar results. Your final choice may depend on other factors such as personal preference, keyboard compatibility, and availability.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the KTT Rose linear switch, several factors should be taken into account. Firstly, both switches have the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches.
If you prioritize a unique sound signature, the Gateron CM switch may be the better choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a rich, deep sound profile. They are described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, providing a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch also delivers a mellow and bass-heavy sound due to its low-pitched characteristic. However, it is also described as neutral, making it suitable for various purposes and preferences.
In terms of the typing experience, the Gateron CM switch offers a bouncy feel due to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. It is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch offers a more mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable for most users. It is also described as polished, indicating a sleek and refined finish for smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch depends on personal preferences. If you value a unique sound signature and a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM switch may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a mellow sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the KTT Rose switch may be more suitable. Consider your own preferences and needs to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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