Gateron CM vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly affect your typing experience, and two notable options in the linear category are the Gateron CM and the HMX Twilight. The Gateron CM stands out with its full nylon housing, which not only enhances durability but also produces a rich, deep sound signature that many enthusiasts appreciate. Featuring a carefully designed dual-staged spring, this switch provides a bouncy, smooth keystroke experience, making long typing sessions a delight. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight brings a unique charm with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, offering a quieter typing experience while still embodying the classic characteristics of clacky HMX switches. Each switch has its own set of advantages: the CM is favored for its buttery, thocky feel and polished performance, while the Twilight appeals to those who seek a more subdued sound with an extended travel. 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
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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and HMX Twilight switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, leading to a consistent sound profile across both switches. With nylon being a classic switch housing material, the properties inherent in this material contribute to a deeper and fuller typing experience. Both switches benefit from the softness of nylon, which naturally absorbs sound better compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound signature. Consequently, users can expect a relatively similar auditory experience when typing on either the Gateron CM or HMX Twilight, as both designs are predicated on the same material advantages.
In addition to sound characteristics, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings means that the tactile feedback from each switch will be consistent. The bottom housing typically plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound released upon key release. Since both the Gateron CM and HMX Twilight feature nylon in these critical positions, the tactile experience will share similar qualities. This enables users to enjoy a unified typing sensation and auditory feedback that comes from switches made of the same material, regardless of the brand.
However, while the materials themselves are the same, the overall design, such as the internal components and stem characteristics, could differ, influencing the final performance of each switch. Variations in spring tension, actuation force, or even switch stem design may create nuanced differences that can affect overall feel and performance. Nevertheless, with both switches employing nylon for the housing, the foundational sound and tactile experience will be alike, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will enjoy the hallmark qualities of nylon-based switches with a harmonious typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, significant differences are evident in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Gateron CM is the heavier switch, while the HMX Twilight is the lighter option. These variations in force indicate that users seeking a more tactile feedback may gravitate toward the Gateron CM, whereas those who value minimal friction and comfort during long periods of use might opt for the HMX Twilight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there's a notable difference between the two. The Gateron CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Twilight measures at 3.85 mm. This makes the Gateron CM the shorter option, catering to those who favor quicker response times, which is especially popular among gamers. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the HMX Twilight may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. If you're seeking a switch that offers a more responsive experience, the Gateron CM would be the preferred choice, but if you enjoy a deeper, more hearty depth, the HMX Twilight would likely be more suited to your preferences.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM switches stand out with their richly bassy and thocky acoustics, creating a deep and satisfying auditory signature during typing. The combination of a full nylon housing and an impeccable factory lube job contributes to the low-pitched quality of the CM switches, which produces a pleasing "thud" reminiscent of a soft knock when keys are pressed and released. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch tends to be slightly quieter, benefiting from an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, but specific auditory characteristics are not detailed. The quieter nature of the Twilight may lead to a less pronounced sound, but the specific sound profile cannot be fully assessed based on the provided information.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM switches are celebrated for their exceptionally smooth keystrokes, characterized as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. This combination ensures a seamless typing experience, where users can glide effortlessly across the keys, enjoying reduced friction and fluid travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX Twilight switches remains unknown, as no descriptors have been provided. This leaves a gap in direct comparison, particularly regarding the overall typing experience and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CM switches offer a superior auditory and tactile experience, characterized by their rich sound and smooth feel, the HMX Twilight switches present an ambiguous stance on these qualities. The CMs provide a satisfying combination of thocky sounds and creamy keystrokes, making them a strong contender for typing enthusiasts seeking depth and smoothness. Conversely, the Twilight's sound profile remains less defined, and its feel is undetermined, highlighting a significant point of difference. For individuals who prioritize acoustics and tactile enjoyment in their mechanical keyboards, the Gateron CM switches stand out as a more refined option, while specifics about the Twilight's performance warrant further exploration.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Gateron CM might be the right fit for you. Its rich, deep sound profile and buttery smooth feel make it ideal for creating an immersive auditory experience while typing, especially if you enjoy the tactile feedback that comes with a bouncy keystroke. This switch is particularly suitable for those who spend long hours on their keyboard, as its polished and creamy feel can minimize fatigue while providing an engaging typing journey. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the HMX Twilight could be your best option. Its extended travel distance and quieter operation cater to fast typists who prioritize speed and smoothness over auditory feedback. The Twilight's design allows for efficient typing with less effort, making it perfect for quick typing sessions or for environments where noise reduction is a priority. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you seek a rich tactile experience with the CM or a lighter, faster typing sensation with the Twilight.
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