Gateron CM vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from. Two switches that stand out are the Gateron CM and the Everglide Sunset Yellow. The Gateron CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, delivering a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, typing on these switches feels effortlessly smooth and resembles gliding gracefully with each keystroke. The CM switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless'. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches offer a captivating sound profile reminiscent of colliding mahjong tiles. The cream-colored switches provide a rich and indulgent typing experience, thanks to their medium weight and unique POM stem. The proprietary factory lube method enhances the distinct gliding feel, while the combination of a short travel distance and long-pole stem ensures sharp and highly responsive typing. The Sunset Yellow switch is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', and 'Thocky'. So, if you're looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a rich sound, the Gateron CM switch might be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a captivating sound profile, a sharper typing experience, and a medium weight switch, the Everglide Sunset Yellow could be the perfect fit. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CM and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches both have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The CM switch features a nylon top housing, while the Sunset Yellow switch uses a POM top housing. Although they have different materials, both nylon and POM create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the nylon housing of the CM switch absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Sunset Yellow switch creates a relatively more muted sound. They both offer unique and pleasing sound profiles, but the CM switch may provide a slightly more pronounced typing experience.

Similarly, the CM switch and Sunset Yellow switch also differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The CM switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Sunset Yellow switch incorporates a POM bottom housing. Just like the top housings, nylon and POM bring their own qualities to the switch. The nylon bottom housing of the CM switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow switch adds to its deeper and muted sound. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the CM switch may provide a slightly more tactile typing experience compared to the Sunset Yellow switch.

In summary, both the Gateron CM and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences. The CM switches with their nylon top and bottom housings create a duller and rounder sound, while the Sunset Yellow switches with their POM top and bottom housings offer a relatively more muted sound. Although the differences may be subtle, they contribute to a unique typing experience with each switch. Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with the CM switch providing a slightly more pronounced tactile experience compared to the Sunset Yellow switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, it is clear that they differ in weight. The CM has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Sunset Yellow has a medium-light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams. This means that the CM switch requires a slightly heavier touch to trigger a keystroke and provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch is lighter, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Despite their different weights, both switches offer a similar level of performance and responsiveness for their respective force requirements.

Travel distance

The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches have a shorter travel distance than the more traditional 4.0 mm, indicating a preference for faster response times. Gamers, in particular, often opt for shorter travel distances to improve their reaction speed. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may find the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Yellow switch to be too abrupt. In contrast, the Gateron CM switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a sense of hearty depth. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference – those seeking a more responsive experience should opt for the shorter travel distance of the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch, while those desiring a more substantial feel may prefer the Gateron CM switch with its longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer a captivating and indulgent experience. They are both described as having a deep and rich sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, both switches are described as producing a satisfying "thocky" sound, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch provide a smooth and buttery typing experience. They are both described as having a creamy and frictionless feel, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. This is likely due to the application of lubricant at the factory and the use of specific materials that contribute to a silky sensation when typing. Additionally, both switches are also described as having a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a deep and rich sound profile, along with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The main difference between the two switches lies in the construction of their housings, with the CM switches featuring a full nylon housing and the Sunset Yellow switches having a unique POM stem. However, it is important to keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, and the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch have their own unique qualities and advantages.

If you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a rich, deep sound signature, then the Gateron CM switch would be a great choice for you. Its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job ensure an effortlessly smooth typing experience, almost like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring provides a bouncy typing experience, adding to the overall satisfaction.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a captivating sound profile, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch would be a perfect fit. With its Creamsicle-colored appearance, it offers a unique aesthetic while delivering a rich, bassy, and decadent sound during typing. The POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel, and the combination of short travel and a long-pole stem ensures a highly responsive typing experience.

In terms of sound, both switches are described as bassy and thocky, which means they provide a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released.

In terms of feel, both switches offer a creamy and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. The Gateron CM switch is also described as buttery, polished, and creamy, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch is described as polished.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch depends on your personal preferences. Whether you prioritize a medium-heavy or medium-light bottom out force, a rich and deep sound signature, or a distinct gliding feel, both switches offer excellent options for a smooth and enjoyable typing journey.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more