Gateron CM vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both offer unique features and qualities to cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron CM, a linear switch, stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer sound signature and a smooth typing experience with its impeccable factory lube job. With a lengthened, dual-staged spring, users can expect a bouncy typing sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver, also a linear switch, boasts an all-POM construction with a short travel distance for quick actuation. This switch offers a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to consider when choosing the best one for your typing needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The CM features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted compared to nylon. While both housing materials contribute to a deeper sound profile, the CM offers a fuller sound while the Smoothie Silver provides a more muted tone.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Gateron CM and the Gateron Smoothie Silver offer similarly deep sound profiles. The nylon top and bottom housing of the CM create a fuller sound that is absorbed by the softer plastic, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the POM top and bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver produce a unique sound that is also deeper and more muted. While the specific tones may vary slightly between the two switches, the overall effect of the housing materials on the sound profile is quite similar, offering a satisfying typing experience for users.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound of the switches, it is important to note that each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Gateron CM complement each other to create a deep and full sound, while the POM top and bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver work together to produce a unique and muted tone. Ultimately, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. The CM also has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the CM switch may be the better option due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended use, the Smoothie Silver switch with its lighter actuation force might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference in terms of typing feel and force exertion.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CM. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for quick response times. However, those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may find the CM switch to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response speed.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses with a satisfying thud-like noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has no specific sound descriptors provided, indicating that it may not have as defined of a sound profile as the CM switch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch does not have any specific feel descriptors listed, suggesting that it may not offer the same level of smoothness and uniform typing sensation as the CM switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its rich sound signature, impeccable factory lube job, and bouncy typing experience, while also offering a buttery, polished, and frictionless feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is praised for its short travel distance, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch, but lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches are expected to provide a satisfying typing journey with their linear design, but the CM switch may offer a more defined and refined experience overall.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should consider the specific qualities and preferences that suit your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bouncy typing experience with a rich and deep sound profile, and a smooth, polished feel, then the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a switch with a feather-light touch, lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, and unparalleled smoothness, then the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, it's important to test out both switches and see which one aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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