Gateron CM vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that promise distinct typing experiences. The Gateron CM, with its full nylon housing, sets itself apart by offering a robust and rich sound signature that is complemented by an impeccable factory lube job. This results in a smooth, gliding experience that many users find delightful, thanks to the switch's bouncy, dual-staged spring design. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its super smooth keystrokes, utilizing the latest mold technology to create a balanced sound profile that strikes a chord between being resonant and quietly subdued. Both switches cater to those who appreciate linear feedback but offer their own unique sensibilities — whether it's the CM's polished, low-pitched thockiness or the Strawberry Latte's subtlety. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a deeper, bassy tone or a balanced sound with silky smoothness. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Huano Strawberry Latte, there are notable differences worth highlighting, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Gateron CM employs a classic nylon material for its top housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer characteristics. This softness allows the nylon to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte utilizes POK material for its top housing. While POK is notably smoother and more durable, offering a clacky sound due to its superior wear and shock resistance, it does not emphasize sound absorption in the same way as nylon does.
Interestingly, both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, leading to similarities in the typing experience when bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing in both models contributes to the same deeper and rounder sound quality, allowing typists to enjoy a similar auditory profile, regardless of the differences present in the top housings. Since the bottom housing influences the sound and feel upon bottoming out, users may find their experiences with both the CM and Strawberry Latte switches comparable during use, provided they consider the unique attributes of both materials when typing.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials used in the top housings provide distinct experiences when releasing keys, while the commonality in the bottom housings fosters a familiar foundation between the two switches. The Gateron CM's nylon top housing yields a richer sound experience due to its acoustic absorption, while the Huano Strawberry Latte's POK top housing allows for a smoother and more durable feel. Together, these differences and similarities help define the overall character of each switch, catering to varying preferences among typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte has a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while the CM requires more force to trigger each keystroke and to fully bottom out, the Strawberry Latte allows for a much lighter touch, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons without as much fatigue. If you prefer a lighter switch for comfort and endurance, the Strawberry Latte is the clear choice, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Gateron CM due to its heavier resistance.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on these keys. Since both switches feature the same travel distance, this equivalence suggests that they will deliver comparable performance in terms of key feel and actuation. As a result, users seeking a linear switch with a smooth keypress can confidently choose either option without worrying about significant differences in travel distance.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is characterized by a rich, bassy tone that provides a satisfying auditory experience during typing. With descriptors like "thocky" and "low-pitched," these switches produce a deep, resonant sound that resembles a soft thud when keys are pressed and released, creating an immersive sound profile. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch has a more balanced sound profile that strikes a middle ground, not being overly quiet or excessively resonant. While the CM's sound is more pronounced and bass-heavy, the Strawberry Latte offers a subtler auditory experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a sound that doesn’t dominate the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch excels with its buttery, polished, and creamy attributes, translating to an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience. Users can expect a gliding sensation with reduced resistance, thanks in part to the impeccable factory lube job and the design of the switch components, including its lengthened, dual-staged spring that adds a bouncy feel to the keystrokes. However, the feeling description for the Strawberry Latte linear switch remains unspecified. Without this information, it's challenging to make a direct comparison, but users can anticipate a generally smooth typing experience based on Huano’s reputation for quality.
In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch is notable for its deep, thocky sound and buttery, polished feel, making it ideal for users seeking a richly satisfying typing experience. The Huano Strawberry Latte, while possessing a balanced sound profile, lacks specific descriptors for its tactile feel. Ultimately, if you're looking for a profound auditory and tactile enjoyment, the CM is a solid choice, but if you prefer a more understated sound, the Strawberry Latte may suit your tastes better. Both switches aim for smoothness in their operation, and while the exact feel of the Strawberry Latte remains a mystery, you can expect capable performance from both options.
Conclusion
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a heavier bottom-out force and enjoy a deeper, bassy sound profile, the Gateron CM may be the better fit for you. Its medium-heavy actuation at 63.5 grams provides a satisfying tactile resistance that can enhance your typing experience, paired with a buttery, creamy feel and impeccable factory lube for a truly smooth glide through each keystroke. This makes it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic experience and a sturdy, confident keypress.
On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation at just 45 grams and desire a balanced sound that's not overly resonant, the Huano Strawberry Latte will likely suit you better. Its lighter feel is excellent for fast typists or gamers who benefit from quicker keystrokes while still enjoying a smooth typing experience. The balanced sound profile complements its overall lighter touch, making it a solid choice for those who may find heavier switches fatiguing during extended use.
In summary, consider the Gateron CM Linear Switch for a rich, deep sound and a more substantial typing experience, while the Huano Strawberry Latte is ideal if you seek a light, comfortable feel with a more balanced auditory character.
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