Gateron CM vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Bluish White offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer an effortlessly smooth typing experience, giving a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Furthermore, the lengthened, dual-staged spring in the CM switches ensures a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switches offer a satisfying level of resistance with their "medium tactile" feel, providing a precise and comfortable typing experience. These switches are specifically designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. With their medium tactility, they strike a balance between responsiveness and noise reduction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision on which switch suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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 Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches use different housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. The CM switch features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. If RGB lighting is a factor, polycarbonate's translucency makes it an advantageous choice for the top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon. This classic switch housing material enhances the typing experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer similar results in terms of their bottom-out sound and feel due to the usage of nylon for the bottom housing.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the different housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. Pressing down on a switch predominantly showcases the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the impact on the sound is mostly influenced by the top housing material. Therefore, understanding the specific housing materials used in each part of the switch is vital in determining the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different weight options for users to consider. The Gateron CM has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for a smoother and more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for people who type for long periods of time or engage in extended gaming sessions. The lighter weight of this switch also results in less finger fatigue.
However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a better fit. Its higher actuation and bottom out forces require a more deliberate keystroke, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. This heavier weight can enhance precision and accuracy for typists who prefer a more pronounced keypress.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a medium-heavy weight option, while the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch provides a lighter alternative. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, opting for the Silent Bluish White with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper key press. In such cases, the Gateron CM with its slightly longer travel distance would be a more suitable option. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 known for its rich and deep sound signature. It produces a bassy and thocky sound, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This creates a satisfying and immersive typing experience. Additionally, the CM switch's full nylon housing contributes to its unique sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is designed to minimize sound. It is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes it ideal for environments where noise reduction is important, such as offices or shared living spaces. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is often described as buttery, polished, and creamy. It offers a smooth and effortless keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel thanks to its factory lube job. This creates a seamless and uniform typing sensation, where each keystroke feels like gliding across the keys with ease. Similarly, the Silent Bluish White tactile switch also provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is described as buttery, mild, stepped, and subtle. With a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, the Silent Bluish White switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone. It offers a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel and a polished finish contributing to a sleek typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron CM linear switch excels in producing a rich and deep sound while providing a buttery and polished feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch focuses on minimizing sound production while still offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. If you're looking for a switch with a more pronounced sound and a luxurious typing sensation, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you prioritize a quiet and comfortable typing experience without compromising on smoothness, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch would be a suitable option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing newcomers to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience accordingly.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, and enjoy a bouncy typing experience, then the Gateron CM linear switch is the right choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a buttery and polished typing experience. The CM switch is best known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, which provides a satisfying depth to your keystrokes. Additionally, the CM switch's medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams gives a medium tactility level, perfect for those who prefer a higher level of resistance when typing.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience in office or shared living spaces and prefer a more gentle and approachable tactile feel, then the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is the better choice for you. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches provide a mild and subtle typing experience. The Silent Bluish Whites are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Additionally, these switches offer a polished and buttery typing feel, similar to the Gateron CM switch. The Silent Bluish Whites have a stepped tactile feel and are described as mild and subtle, offering a more gentle resistance and maintaining a light typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch depends on your preferred typing experience. If you prioritize a deeper, bassy sound and a bouncy typing experience, the CM switch is the way to go. However, if you need a quieter and more gentle tactile feel, while still enjoying a buttery and polished typing experience, then the Silent Bluish White switch is the better option. Consider your preferences and environment when making your decision.
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