Gateron CM vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can seem endless. Two popular choices that often come up in discussions are the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Red. The Gateron CM is a linear switch that stands out for its full nylon housing, which not only gives it a bold aesthetic but also contributes to a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, this switch promises a smooth and effortless typing experience, almost as if you're gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Its lengthened, dual-staged spring also adds to its appeal, offering a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is also a linear switch but is best known for its silent operation. Perfect for office or shared living spaces, these switches have a muted sound profile that won't disturb those around you. Additionally, they offer a smooth and consistent feel throughout, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Red use different materials for their top housing. The CM utilizes nylon, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Thus, these two switches offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetic options depending on the housing material used.
While the top housings differ between the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Red, their bottom housings share the same material. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of their bottom housing, the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Red will offer similar sound characteristics.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material will have separate effects. The bottom housing predominantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Thus, the choice of material for the bottom housing will have a significant effect on the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when letting go of a key. Therefore, the material used for the top housing can influence the sound profile during the release of a key. Consideration of both top and bottom housings is crucial in determining the desired sound and feel when choosing between the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Red switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we can see that there are similarities and differences between the two. The actuation force of the CM switch is slightly heavier, requiring 55 grams of force, while the Silent Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Silent Red switch would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This lighter actuation force is also ideal for gamers who require quick and responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gateron CM switch with its heavier actuation force. This force provides a stronger push feel, satisfying those who appreciate a tactile feedback while typing.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch differ in their actuation forces, they both share the same bottom out force. Therefore, selecting either of these switches will result in similar results in terms of overall typing resistance. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the CM switch offering a heavier touch and the Silent Red switch providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The CM switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Red switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth noting. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, either switch would provide similar results. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper feel, the TTC Silent Red linear switch with its 3.7 mm travel distance might be the better option for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one desires.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics. These switches produce a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is characterized by a lower frequency range and offers a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Silent Reds are perfect for office or shared living spaces where minimizing noise is desirable.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They are described as buttery, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switches have a polished finish due to materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The CM switch also promises a bouncy typing experience thanks to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch have different sound profiles but similar feel qualities. The CM switch is characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, while the Silent Red switch offers a muted sound profile. Both switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, described as buttery and polished. The CM switch additionally offers a bouncy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound and noise reduction requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, if you're someone who values a deeper and richer sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would be the better choice for you. The CM switches are best known for their full nylon housing, delivering a bassy and thocky sound with each key press. They also provide a seamless and effortless typing experience with their buttery, polished, and frictionless characteristics. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience without sacrificing smoothness, the TTC Silent Red linear switch would be the perfect fit. The Silent Reds are best known for their muted sound profile, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. They offer a gentle and polished typing experience with their buttery and mild characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your preferred sound and feel for your mechanical keyboard.
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