Gateron CM vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron CM and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Gateron CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, which not only provides a bold statement but also delivers a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer an effortlessly smooth typing experience, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switch ensures a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is known for its innovation, specifically its whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth without being overly polished. While the Gateron CM switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is classified as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches differ in the material used for their top housing. The CM switch utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the illumination effect.
Both switches, however, share the same nylon material for their bottom housing. Nylon, known as a classic switch housing material, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for increased sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both the Gateron CM and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches provide a similar acoustic experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
It is important to note that the qualities brought about by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Gateron CM and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches may differ in their top housing materials, they both incorporate nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
In terms of weight, some users prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming periods. Conversely, others prefer a heavier actuation force for a more robust typing experience. In this scenario, the CM switch would provide a slightly heavier typing feel as compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces.
However, if a user desires a similar experience, both switches could deliver comparable results as their bottom out forces are relatively close. The actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear switch is unknown, so it is not possible to make a direct comparison in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular recently. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, then the Gateron CM linear switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, it is important to note that some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper key press and a more substantial feeling when typing, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable for you. Overall, both switches offer relatively short travel distances, but their subtle difference in length may cater to different preferences.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The Gateron CM linear switch is best known for its rich and deep sound signature. With a full nylon housing, these switches offer a bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by lower frequency tones and a satisfying "thud" when pressed. The CM switches also provide a buttery and polished feel, with effortless and uniform typing sensations. The factory lube job ensures a smooth and frictionless typing experience, making each keystroke feel like gliding gracefully. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, with a whisper-quiet topping-out and clacky bottom-out sound. It provides a neutral feel with a mild typing experience, suitable for most users. While lacking specific descriptors, it maintains a snappy and buttery feel due to its responsive and smooth key travel. It is important to note that the sound and feel of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. In summary, the Gateron CM and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, offering users distinct options for their mechanical keyboard preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a richer, deeper sound signature and a bouncy typing experience, then the Gateron CM linear switch is the way to go. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, it offers an effortlessly smooth typing journey that will make you feel like you're gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Its sound profile can be described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, giving you a deeper and satisfying sound during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a more subdued sound signature, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is the perfect choice. Its innovative design allows for a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The type feel is silky smooth, but not over-polished. The switch offers a more gentle typing experience and is super responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. The sound profile of the Semi-Silent Linear switch can be described as subdued and neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch depends on your preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prefer a richer, deeper sound and a bouncy typing experience (CM) or a more subdued sound and a gentle typing experience (Semi-Silent Linear), both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Choose the one that aligns with your desired sound and feel, and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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