Gateron CM vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Gateron CM switch is characterized by its full nylon housing, which sets it apart from the traditional polycarbonate housings of other switches. This unique feature contributes to a richer and deeper sound signature, creating a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the CM switch comes pre-lubricated from the factory, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing journey. With its lengthened, dual-staged spring, users can expect a bouncy feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and typing. This switch offers a speedy and responsive feel, ideal for those who prefer a quick and efficient typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder tone. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Yellow Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, contributing to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Yellow Silver's transparent housing is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting purposes.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the CM and the Yellow Silver switches employ nylon. This common housing material for both switches leads to a similar sound profile—a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone. Nylon's softness enables it to absorb more sound, thus creating a more subdued auditory experience. Consequently, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches when pressed.
It's worth noting that when the top and bottom housings differ within a switch, the characteristics of each material are divided between the top and bottom. This means that the bottom housing primarily influences the sound and feel upon pressing a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the distinctions between the Gateron CM's nylon top housing and the Outemu Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing allows users to select their desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences accordingly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Gateron CM has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver's 45 grams. This means that the Gateron CM requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gateron CM is also slightly heavier with a force of 63.5 grams, while the Outemu Yellow Silver has a force of 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be a suitable choice, as its actuation force and bottom out force are both lighter compared to the Gateron CM. This can be advantageous for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may become a concern.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push when pressing keys may find the Gateron CM switch more appealing. With its heavier actuation force and bottom out force, it provides a tactile feedback that some users may find satisfying and more suitable for their typing style.
In terms of weight, the Gateron CM can be considered as medium-heavy, while the Outemu Yellow Silver is considered medium-light. This can be an important factor to consider depending on personal preferences and the intended usage of the keyboard. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of these switches will offer different typing experiences, allowing users to choose the one that aligns best with their preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Yellow Silver switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM switch. 4.0mm is considered to be the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, recently, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the CM switch with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the switch with the longer travel distance for a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend 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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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, the Gateron CM linear switch is best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. These qualities result in a deeper and richer sound signature during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, providing a satisfying and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This switch is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. However, please note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The term "buttery" signifies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, reducing friction and resulting in a sleek typing experience. The creamy sensation of the CM switch can be attributed to the lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used, allowing for effortless and silky keystrokes. Lastly, the CM switch is described as frictionless, minimizing any resistance or friction when pressing the keys and ensuring a fluid travel. Unfortunately, the available information does not provide any details on the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch.
In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its distinctive sound and feel characteristics. With its full nylon housing, the CM switch offers a deeper and richer sound signature, providing a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound during key presses. The switch's buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless feel ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch are not specified in the provided information. However, it is important to note that individual preferences may vary, and the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the CM switch with its 63.5 grams force would be a better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Yellow Silver switch with its 55 grams force would be more suitable.
For sound, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth of bass tones, the CM switch would be the way to go. Its sound can be described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, the Yellow Silver switch would be more fitting.
In terms of feel, the CM switch offers a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Its smooth and fluid keystroke, along with a uniform and effortless sensation, makes it enjoyable to type on. Meanwhile, there is no specific description provided for the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a heavier or lighter touch, a deeper and bassy sound, or a neutral sound profile, as well as the type of typing experience you desire. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch.
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