Gateron CM vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CM excels in providing a rich and deep sound signature with its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, offering a smooth typing experience that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a bouncy typing experience. While the CM is praised for its buttery and bassy qualities, the Snow is known for its thocky and neutral characteristics. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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 Dareu Snow both feature nylon top housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption properties. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow's POK top housing offers enhanced smoothness and durability compared to the Gateron CM's nylon top housing, with a coefficient of friction that makes it one of the smoothest materials available. This difference in material can result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Snow switch potentially feeling smoother and more durable compared to the CM switch.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Gateron CM and Dareu Snow feature nylon materials, which again contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Since both switches use the same material for the bottom housing, the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches may be quite similar. However, it is worth noting that if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel differently.
Overall, while both the Gateron CM and Dareu Snow switches offer nylon bottom housings for a similar typing experience, the difference in top housing materials sets them apart. The Dareu Snow's POK top housing provides increased smoothness and durability compared to the Gateron CM's nylon top housing, resulting in a potentially smoother and more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to the desired sound profile, smoothness, and durability that each housing material offers.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch differ slightly in weight. The Gateron CM has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. In comparison, the Dareu Snow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium weight option. The lighter actuation force of the Snow switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier forces of the CM switch could be preferred by those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches provide options for users seeking either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the Snow has a shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm compared to the CM's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, the Snow provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize fast reaction times may prefer the Snow for this reason. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press and a deeper feel may lean towards the CM switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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, giving users a deeper and richer tone during key presses with a satisfying depth and richness. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and mellow tone that suits various typing environments. Both switches offer a similar low-pitched sound profile which can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build quality and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, promising a smooth and fluid typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch is characterized by its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. While the CM switch provides a variety of smooth and polished sensations, the Snow switch focuses on a more buoyant and elastic typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch each offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch provides a deep and rich sound with a buttery and frictionless feel, while the Snow switch offers a thocky sound profile and a bouncy typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound depth and key response, users can choose between the smooth gliding experience of the CM switch or the lively rebound of the Snow switch, both promising a satisfying typing journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize a bouncy typing experience with a deeper and richer sound profile, opt for the Gateron CM switch. The CM switch's unique features such as the full nylon housing, impeccable factory lube job, and lengthened dual-staged spring provide a smooth and graceful typing journey with a bassy and thocky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a thocky sound and a moderate actuation force, the Dareu Snow switch might be more suitable for you. The innovative use of POK material in the Snow switch offers a deeper sound signature and a bouncy typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your typing preferences and priorities for sound and feel.
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