Gateron CM vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the HMX Swift, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron CM switch breaks away from traditional polycarbonate housings with its full nylon housing, providing a rich and deep sound signature. With a factory lube job for smooth typing and a lengthened, dual-staged spring for a bouncy typing experience, the CM switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Creamy'. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon housing and delicate 42g actuation force. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Creamy', the Swift offers an easy-to-press and bouncy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CM and the HMX Swift utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing materials, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This attribute contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with nylon housing. The duller and rounder sound produced by nylon creates a more satisfying typing experience for users of both the CM and Swift switches.
While both the Gateron CM and the HMX Swift share nylon as their housing material, the impact of the top and bottom housing differs in terms of the sound and feel produced by the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down, influencing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing affects the sound produced when a key is released, adding to the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, the utilization of nylon in both housing components contributes to a consistent typing experience across both the CM and Swift switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM and the HMX Swift both offer a similar typing experience due to their use of nylon as the housing material for both the top and bottom components of the switches. The absorbent nature of nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. While the impact of the top and bottom housing may vary slightly in each switch, the consistent use of nylon ensures that users can expect a satisfying typing experience regardless of the specific switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The CM has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Swift's lighter 42 grams. Similarly, the CM has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Swift bottoms out at 50 grams. The CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Swift switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for a smoother and faster typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, individuals should consider their preference for weight when choosing between these switches, as it can significantly impact their typing comfort and efficiency.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. Those who prioritize quick key presses may prefer the Gateron CM with its shorter travel distance. In contrast, the HMX Swift offers a slightly deeper sensation when pressing down on the keys, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The full nylon housing enhances the sound experience, creating a more immersive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a unique clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. While the Swift switches have a brighter sound signature compared to other HMX switches, the full nylon housing contributes to a deeper sound profile. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The factory lube job on these switches further enhances the typing sensation, providing a seamless and effortless typing journey. Additionally, the lengthened dual-staged spring in the CM switches contributes to a bouncy typing experience, adding a sense of elasticity to each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel. The light actuation force of 42g in the Swift switches makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switches stand out for their bassy sound profile, buttery feel, and bouncy typing experience, while the Swift switches are distinguished by their clacky sound, easy-to-press feel, and feathery typing sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches offer a range of subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, a deeper and richer sound profile described as bassy and thocky, and a buttery or polished typing experience, then the Gateron CM linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a brighter and clacky sound profile, and an easy-to-press or feathery typing feel, then the HMX Swift linear switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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