Gateron CM vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Jwick Taro offer unique features that cater to different typists. The Gateron CM, a linear switch, breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer an effortlessly smooth typing journey, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switches boast a bouncy typing experience due to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, offers a cozy typing experience with its comfy subdued color scheme. Typing with the Taro switches provides a snappy, medium-level of tactility while producing acute and crisp clacks. Both switches have their strengths and are categorized differently, with the CM being described as 'buttery', 'bassy', 'polished', 'thocky', 'low-pitched', 'creamy', and 'frictionless', and the Taro being categorized as 'neutral', 'buttery', and 'stepped'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Jwick Taro switches differ in their housing materials, with the CM featuring a nylon top housing and the Taro using a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it more suitable for switches that have RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile.
When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing are felt when the switch is pressed down. Since both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, they will provide a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the differences in the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when you release a key. The softer nylon used in the CM's top housing will create a duller and rounder sound, while the stronger polycarbonate in the Taro's top housing will result in a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro switch has the advantage of being translucent, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This allows for vibrant and visually appealing lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing in the CM switch does not offer the same level of transparency. However, both switches maintain the classic look of using nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a timeless and reliable design.
In summary, the Gateron CM and Jwick Taro switches differ in their top housing materials, with the CM using nylon and the Taro utilizing polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the CM creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. The Taro's polycarbonate top housing provides the added benefit of translucency, making it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both switches maintain a classic and reliable aesthetic with their nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The CM linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a medium-heavy resistance to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Taro tactile switch is not available, making it difficult to compare directly. However, both switches have a bottom out force that falls within the medium-heavy range. The CM linear switch requires a force of 63.5 grams to bottom out, while the Taro tactile switch requires 67 grams. Therefore, the Taro tactile switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the CM linear switch.
Considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the CM linear switch. With a lower actuation force of 55 grams, it allows for effortless keystrokes and can be suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may favor the Taro tactile switch. It offers a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a stronger push feel and potentially enhancing the overall typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Taro tactile switch is not specified, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force. The CM linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Taro tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, indicating that they are suitable for those seeking faster response times. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances to increase their reaction speed. However, it should be noted that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial key pressing experience may opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Overall, while the Gateron CM linear switch and Jwick Taro tactile switch differ slightly in terms of travel distance, they both offer a shorter distance compared to traditional switches, providing similar benefits for those seeking faster key response times.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 stands out with its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The CM switches also deliver a satisfying sound when pressed and released, with a deep "thud" or soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate sound without any specific descriptors of bass or high-pitched tones. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a deeper and more bass-heavy sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is the better choice, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a more moderate and neutral sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CM linear switch and Jwick Taro tactile switch provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The CM switches are described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, indicating a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Taro switches also offer a buttery and stepped typing experience. The buttery feel ensures a smooth and fluid keystroke, similar to the CM switches. The stepped feel implies a mild tactile feedback with the presence of pre-travel and/or post-travel. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, allowing for effortless and precise keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switches provide a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound signature, while the Taro switches have a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, with the CM switches also being described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. While the exact qualities of the Taro switches are not mentioned in terms of sound, it shares the buttery feel with the CM switches, albeit with a stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for sound and the level of tactile feedback desired.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are several factors to consider.
If you prioritize a rich and deep sound signature during key presses, the CM switch would be the better choice. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer a bouncy and effortlessly smooth typing experience. They produce a bassy and thocky sound, with a low-pitched tone that adds depth and richness to your typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a snappy tactility and acute clacks, the Taro switch would suit your needs. It offers a moderate level of tactility, making it suitable for beginners or advanced users, whether at home or work. The Taro switch has a neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud or intrusive.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a buttery and smooth keystroke experience. The CM switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, ensuring a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Similarly, the Taro switch is buttery and has a stepped tactile feel, offering a more mild sensation with slight pre-travel or post-travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a rich and deep sound signature with a bouncy typing experience, the CM switch would be ideal. However, if you prefer a cozy experience with moderate tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Taro switch would suit your needs better. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and requirements.
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