Gateron CM vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and Jerrzi Violet stand out as excellent options, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The Gateron CM, a linear switch, is renowned for its full nylon housing that provides a rich and deep sound signature, along with an impeccable factory lube job for a smooth typing experience. With a lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switch offers a bouncy typing experience that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch, boasts gentle tactility and smooth actuation, resulting in a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the CM switch is characterized by its buttery, bassy, and polished feel, the Violet switch is described as stepped and neutral. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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 uses a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. While the CM's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Violet's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Both the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Violet utilize a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to their respective top housings. This means that typing on switches from both keyboards will elicit a similar sound experience due to the properties of nylon being relatively softer and absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Despite having different top housings, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to creating a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Violet, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. While the Gateron CM's nylon top housing offers a deeper sound upon release, the Jerrzi Violet's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound, showcasing the unique characteristics of each housing material in enhancing the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the CM switch requires 63.5 grams to fully press down, while the Violet switch's bottom out force is unknown. The CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Violet switch may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches offer different weight options for users depending on their preferences, with the CM switch leaning towards the heavier side and the Violet switch providing a lighter alternative.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. The slight difference in distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who are sensitive to tactile feedback, the Violet switch might provide a slightly more satisfying key press with its slightly longer travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the CM switch, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Violet switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in travel distance, providing users with reliable and efficient key presses.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich sound during key presses akin to a satisfying "thud" or "knock." On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature, offering a balanced and moderate sound suitable for various typing environments. Both switches can deliver a pleasant auditory experience, but for those who prefer a deeper and richer sound, the CM switch may be the preferred choice.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In comparison, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a mild tactility with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages during the keystroke. While the CM switch focuses on delivering a seamless and uniform typing experience, the Violet switch offers a unique tactile feedback that some users may find more appealing for precise typing tasks.
Considering all the available information, if sound and feel are crucial factors in choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CM linear switch would be ideal for those seeking a deep, rich sound profile and a buttery, frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch would cater to individuals looking for a balanced sound signature with a stepped tactility for a more nuanced typing feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a rich sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile feel with a balanced sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and fits your individual preferences.
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