Gateron CM vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron CM, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch. The CM switch stands out thanks to its full nylon housing, breaking away from the conventional polycarbonate housings. Its unique design delivers a richer, deeper sound signature, creating a more immersive typing experience. Additionally, with an impeccable factory lube job, these switches glide effortlessly with each keystroke, promising a smooth and polished feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the Duck switches are perfect. They provide a gentle tactility while typing, and their sound profile is clean and crispy. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the SP-Star Duck differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The CM utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Duck opts for polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck is particularly useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
If a switch features different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities brought by each material will be divided between the two parts. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more apparent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Gateron CM's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing will create a sharper and crisper effect. In terms of the sound when releasing a key, the CM's nylon top housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound, while the Duck's polycarbonate top housing will result in a sharper and crisper sound.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron CM and the SP-Star Duck aim to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials. The CM's nylon housing offers a classic and softer option that absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate housing provides a stiffer and more resonant option, delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile. Although the materials and resulting sounds may vary, both switches prioritize the development of a high-quality and satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force of the SP-Star Duck is unavailable. This means that we cannot directly compare the two in terms of their actuation forces. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron CM requires 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Duck's 58 grams.
Considering weight, the Gateron CM is on the medium-heavy side, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck falls into the medium range, which might be suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience to reduce strain during longer typing sessions or gaming sessions.
Although we cannot directly compare the actuation forces, it is worth mentioning that both switches will provide a similar result in terms of triggering a keystroke. So, if the actuation force is a significant factor, both switches might be equally suitable choices. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we can see that the CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Duck has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Duck switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM switch.
It is important to note that the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Duck switch is more traditional, while the CM switch offers a slightly shorter distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the CM switch, as it allows for quicker key presses. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when typing, the longer travel distance of the Duck switch may be preferred.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences. Both switches offer their own advantages and it is essential to consider factors such as typing style, desired responsiveness, and comfort when making a decision.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. These qualities contribute to a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound of the CM switch can be characterized by a lower frequency range, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate sound profile without any specific tonal qualities. The Duck switch is suitable for most intents and purposes, making it a safe choice whether you are a beginner or advanced user.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Typing on these switches is smooth and fluid, providing a seamless and effortless sensation. The CM switches have a sleek and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The application of lubricant at the factory further enhances these qualities, creating a creamy and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Duck switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, similar to the buttery feel of the CM switch. The switch's polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone, making it suitable for those seeking a deeper and richer sound during typing. Its feel is characterized by a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless experience, ensuring smooth and fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. It provides a more mild and gentle typing experience with a buttery and polished feel. While these switches offer distinct qualities, they both provide a smooth and effortless typing sensation, allowing users to achieve a similar level of satisfaction depending on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bouncy typing experience and a deeper, bassy sound, Gateron CM linear switches would be an excellent choice. The full nylon housing and impeccable factory lubrication ensure a smooth and effortless typing journey, while the lengthened, dual-staged spring adds a satisfying bounce to each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a moderate sound profile, SP-Star Duck tactile switches would be perfect. These switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, thanks to their buttery and polished feel. Overall, the decision between these two switches ultimately comes down to your personal preference for key weight, typing experience, and sound profile.
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