Gateron CM vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown. The CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, providing a rich and deep sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, typing on these switches feels effortlessly smooth, almost like gliding with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switches offers a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an exceptional addition to Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series. These switches offer an economical solution without compromising on quality. They provide a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, carefully designed to offer a gentle bump that won't interrupt your typing flow. The G Pro Brown also features a frosted light diffuser, ensuring that your RGB lighting shines brighter, adding to the visual experience. With a medium-high pitch and satisfying auditory feedback, these switches enhance the joy of each typing session. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision regarding the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown show distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the CM and the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilize nylon. This choice of material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches with nylon bottom housing create a duller and rounder sound when typing.
When considering the overall sound profile of these switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even though the housing materials for the CM and the G Pro 3.0 Brown differ in the top housing, both switches will still provide a similar experience in terms of the sound created when pressing the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there are both similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 55 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal in both switches. This ensures that users will achieve similar results when it comes to the initial push required for typing. However, the bottom out force varies between the two switches. The Gateron CM linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch with a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that while both switches have a medium actuation force, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offers a slightly lighter bottom out force, making it a more comfortable option for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. So, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the CM. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In terms of responsiveness, the CM would be a good choice for those who prioritize a shorter travel distance. However, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt, and if you prefer a deeper key press, the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch does not have a specific description of its sound qualities provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. They offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, evoking a feeling of gliding across the keys. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, mild, and stepped. These switches offer a low-impact and gentle typing experience, requiring minimal force to activate. They provide a responsive and comfortable typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The CM switch stands out for its deeper and richer sound signature, as well as its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless feel. On the other hand, the G Pro Brown switch offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, along with an easy-to-press, mild, and stepped feel. While the specific sound qualities of the G Pro Brown are not provided, it can be assumed that they generally offer a middle-ground experience. Both switches promise a smooth typing experience, but with different sound and feel characteristics. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch is a great choice. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switch has a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a subtle tactile sensation, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch would be a suitable option. These budget-friendly switches provide a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow, enhancing the typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel. The G Pro 3.0 Brown also features a frosted light diffuser, allowing your RGB lighting to shine brighter and creating an immersive visual experience. Though the sound characteristics of the G Pro 3.0 Brown have not been provided, it offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback.
Ultimately, whether you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a deeper sound profile or a tactile typing feel with enhanced visual aesthetics, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing preferences. Both switches offer their own unique features and advantages, ensuring an enjoyable and customized typing experience.
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