TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are numerous options available, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular choices in this realm are the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, and the Gateron CM, a linear switch. The Bluish White switch is renowned for its tactile feedback, providing users with a satisfyingly poppy typing experience that is accompanied by a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing, delivering a richer and deeper sound signature. Additionally, the CM switch boasts an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring an effortlessly smooth typing journey akin to gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Its lengthened, dual-staged spring adds to the appeal, providing a bouncy typing experience. While these are general pointers to consider, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the Gateron CM switches have different materials used for their top housing. The Bluish White utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the CM switch features a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the materials differ, both switches excel in providing distinct sound qualities that enhance the typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, both the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron CM switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon dampens sound, creating a duller and rounder sound as compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both switches provide a similar typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the overall acoustic characteristics and tactile feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Lastly, it's worth noting that the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, each housing material brings its unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing has a more substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts who seek specific sound profiles and tactile feedback, allowing them to customize their typing experience based on their preferences. Whether it is the TTC Bluish White or the Gateron CM, both switches provide opportunities for users to tailor their keyboards to their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences for keyboard users. The Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, meaning that it requires less pressure to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the CM switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that users who prefer a light and effortless typing experience may find the Bluish White switch more suitable for their needs.
When it comes to the bottom out force, the Bluish White switch has a weight of 50 grams, while the CM switch has a weight of 63.5 grams. This indicates that the CM switch requires more force to fully press the keys down, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. Some users may appreciate this heavier bottom out force as it provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of typing with more precision.
Considering the weight of the switches is crucial as it directly affects the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel for prolonged use, such as in professional settings or long gaming sessions, may opt for the TTC Bluish White tactile switch. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CM linear switch due to its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gateron CM linear switch. While the Bluish White switch prioritizes ease of typing, the CM switch provides a more robust and tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch are quite similar, with the Bluish White having a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the CM having a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have gained popularity in recent years, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Bluish White may be preferred by those who prioritize responsiveness, while the slightly longer travel distance of the CM switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
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.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, we can see that they have distinct characteristics. The Bluish White switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the CM switch is described as having a deep and rich sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the CM switch is also described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, while both switches offer a satisfying sound experience, the CM switch provides a richer and deeper sound profile compared to the Bluish White switch.
Moving on to the feel qualities of these switches, the Bluish White switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It also has a mild feel, offering a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Bluish White switch is characterized as subtle, having a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. It is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the CM switch shares similar feel qualities with the Bluish White switch. It is described as buttery, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It is also polished, offering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The CM switch is further described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. It provides a silky sensation where typing feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. It is also frictionless, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Therefore, both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, with similar buttery and polished feel qualities.
Taking into account all the available information, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch have distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Bluish White switch provides a low-pitched sound with a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. It offers a buttery and mild typing feel, resulting in a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. On the other hand, the CM switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a bouncy typing experience. It offers a buttery, polished, and creamy typing feel, allowing for smooth and effortless key presses. Both switches promise a satisfying typing journey, albeit with different sound and feel characteristics. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a delightful typing experience, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable time at the keyboard.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom-out force, then the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a snappy sound profile and offer a buttery, mild, and polished typing feel. They have a low-pitched sound profile, which is characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a richer, deeper sound signature and a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a better fit. These switches come with a full nylon housing and an impeccable factory lube job, resulting in an effortlessly smooth typing journey. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, you can expect a bouncy typing experience. The CM switches are described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a deeper, richer sound during key presses. They also provide a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch will depend on your personal preferences. Consider the desired typing experience, sound profile, and bottom-out force that best suits you. Whether you prefer a light and poppy typing experience or a rich and deep sound signature, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your keyboarding experience.
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