Gateron CM vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White are two popular options with distinct features. The CM switches break away from the norm with their full nylon housing, offering a deeper and richer sound signature compared to conventional polycarbonate housings. These switches also come pre-lubricated, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience that feels like gliding with each keystroke. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches provide a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White switches are part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, designed specifically for delicate typists. With an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, these switches offer effortless and sensitive keystrokes. They also feature a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter RGB lighting, and provide a satisfying auditory feedback with their medium-high pitch. While these general pointers give us a glimpse into each switch's qualities, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best choice based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, while the G Pro 3.0 White features a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the CM creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White produces a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its relatively stiffer plastic. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing allows for better RGB lighting effects.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the CM and the G Pro 3.0 White utilize nylon. Hence, the sound profile of the switch when pressed down will have similar qualities of being deeper and fuller due to the softer plastic and its sound absorption capabilities. This creates a duller and rounder sound. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing.
When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has more impact on the sound and feel, while the top housing is more influential when releasing the key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom parts of the switch can greatly affect the overall sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While the CM and G Pro 3.0 White differ in their top housing materials, they both offer a similar sound profile when it comes to the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, one can observe distinct differences between the two. The Gateron CM switch has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams, indicating it requires a relatively strong push to initiate a keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it more sensitive and responsive to lighter touches. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the CM switch exerts a heavier force of 63.5 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 White switch exerts a lighter force of 45 grams.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch, as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for more effortless typing and prolonged use without fatigue. This lighter experience also makes it suitable for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel, the Gateron CM switch with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces would be the preferred choice.
It is important to note that although the CM switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the G Pro 3.0 White switch, the latter can still provide a similar experience if desired. By employing a slightly firmer touch, users can achieve results comparable to the CM switch's actuation and bottom out forces. Thus, while the Gateron CM switch can be considered heavier, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers the option to achieve a similar feel through deliberate key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the CM has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White offers a deeper key press experience, while the CM provides a slightly shallower feeling. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 White is more traditional, offering a satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the 3.6mm travel distance of the CM appeals to gamers and individuals seeking faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether one prefers a deeper or shallower key press 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
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 sound profile. This means that when the keys are pressed, you can expect a deep and rich tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, providing a satisfying and mellow auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is described as clacky, neutral, and subdued in terms of sound. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound, resulting in a crisp and bright auditory experience. While the CM switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White switch provides a more percussive and subdued sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is often described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. This means that when you type on these switches, you can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The application of factory lube further enhances the smoothness and reduces friction, allowing for a uniform and frictionless key travel. Similarly, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is also described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle in terms of feel. Typing on these switches offers a smooth and buttery tactile experience, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The light actuation force required for these switches makes typing comfortable and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, both switches provide a pleasant typing feel with their smoothness and low-impact characteristics.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch have some differences in subjective qualities, they both offer a satisfying typing experience. The CM switch stands out with its bassy sound signature, providing a deeper and richer tone, while the G Pro 3.0 White switch delivers a sharp and snappy clacky sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer smooth and buttery typing experiences, ensuring effortless and comfortable keystrokes. Whether you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a buttery feel (CM) or a sharp and snappy sound with an easy-to-press sensation (G Pro 3.0 White), both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences. It's important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a rich, deep sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, the CM switches provide an effortlessly smooth typing experience, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring in CM switches offers a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, if you are a delicate typist seeking a budget-friendly option with a light bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is the way to go. With an incredibly light actuation force of only 38g, the G Pro 3.0 White ensures effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Its frosted light diffuser allows for brighter RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory feedback. Experience a premium typing feel without breaking the bank with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the CM and G Pro 3.0 White switches depends on your personal preference for bottom out force and the desired sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
