Gateron CM vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the Gateron CM and the KTT Wine Red, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The CM switch breaks away from the norm by featuring a full nylon housing, resulting in a richer and deeper sound signature. Additionally, its impeccable factory lube job ensures a smooth typing experience that feels like gliding effortlessly with each keystroke. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches provide an intoxicating experience, with a pillowy light type feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. While the CM switches are characterized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Wine Red switches are best known for being 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is the best fit for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the KTT Wine Red differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom components. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the fact that nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Wine Red opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is stiffer than nylon, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for a translucent housing, ideal for RGB lighting effects.
Similarities can be found in the bottom housing of both switches. Both the CM and the Wine Red feature a nylon or polycarbonate bottom housing, respectively. These materials contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon pressing down on a key. This is because the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. While the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing remains consistent in terms of its effect on the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron CM and the KTT Wine Red affects the sound profile of these switches. The nylon top housing of the CM offers a softer and more absorbent quality, resulting in a duller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Wine Red provides a crisper and higher-pitched sound. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon pressing down on a key. While these switches differ in their housing materials, they all offer unique characteristics that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, which means it requires a medium-heavy force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Wine Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 44 grams, making it easier to activate. Similarly, the CM switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is relatively heavy and provides a more substantial typing experience. The Wine Red switch, however, has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a softer and lighter typing sensation.
Considering weight, it is important to note that some people prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This is especially beneficial for those using keyboards for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push and more tactile feedback may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the CM switch would be the ideal choice due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. However, if a lighter and smoother typing experience is desired, the Wine Red switch would be more suitable.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CM linear switch offers a heavier actuation and bottom out force, the KTT Wine Red linear switch provides a lighter and gentler typing experience. Which switch one chooses ultimately depends on their personal preference for typing force and the desired outcome for their typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Wine Red is slightly longer compared to the CM switch. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The CM switch with its shorter travel distance could provide faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value quick reflexes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Wine Red switch may offer a more substantial feel, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch are described as having a deep and rich sound profile, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. They offer a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This means that both switches will provide a satisfyingly deep and full sound when typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as providing a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. These qualities indicate that the switch offers a smooth and effortless keystroke, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on these switches will feel seamless, uniform, and silky. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch. However, based on the description of the Gateron CM switch, it is reasonable to assume that the KTT Wine Red switch will also provide a smooth and fluid typing experience, similar to the Gateron CM.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch offer similar sound qualities, with a deep, rich, and bass-heavy profile. As for feel, the Gateron CM switch is described as providing a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, while there is no specific information available about the feel of the KTT Wine Red switch. However, based on the available information, it can be assumed that the KTT Wine Red switch will also offer a smooth and fluid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and other factors such as the keyboard's compatibility and desired aesthetic.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience, along with a deep and rich sound profile characterized by a bassy and thocky tone, then the Gateron CM linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, the CM switches provide a smooth and polished typing experience, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a pillowy light typing feel accompanied by a satisfyingly deep sound profile, then the KTT Wine Red linear switch is the way to go. While there is no specific information about the feel of the Wine Red switch, its low-pitched sound profile complements its overall characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile.
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