Gateron CM vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Gateron Melodic. The CM is a linear switch that stands out for its unique full nylon housing, providing a rich and deep sound signature that sets it apart from traditional polycarbonate-housed switches. With a factory lube job that ensures smooth key presses and a lengthened, dual-staged spring for a bouncy typing experience, the CM offers a buttery and polished typing feel with a low-pitched thocky sound. On the other hand, the Melodic is a clicky switch that redefines this category with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback. Categorized as buttery, resonant, and invigorating, the Melodic delivers a crunchy typing experience that enthusiasts will appreciate. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, it's important to delve deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch that suits your specific preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Gateron Melodic both use nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deep and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the top housing material differs between the two switches. The CM features a nylon top housing, which maintains the same characteristics as the bottom housing, while the Melodic utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, making it clearer and more resonant.
In terms of aesthetics, the Melodic's use of polycarbonate for the top housing allows for a clear housing that is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. This translucency adds a visually appealing element to the switch, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. On the other hand, the CM's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal as the polycarbonate, but it still provides a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper sound profile. Both switches maintain the deep and fuller sound profile in their bottom housings, thanks to the nylon material absorbing sound effectively.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and Gateron Melodic may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and fuller sound when typing due to their nylon bottom housings, the top housings set them apart. The CM's nylon top housing creates a softer and rounder sound, while the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and clearer sound. Additionally, the Melodic's use of translucent polycarbonate allows for eye-catching RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing option for those looking to add flair to their keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the CM switch is the heavier option. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Melodic switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Melodic switch, as it requires less force to bottom out. In contrast, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the CM switch due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required for typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the CM linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic clicky switch. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem substantial, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the CM switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Melodic switch could provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 deep and bassy sound profile, providing a rich and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. This is complemented by the thocky characteristic, which adds a deep and satisfying thud when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch brings a more resonant and higher-pitched sound profile to the table, allowing users to enjoy a clean and sharp auditory experience with a crunchy texture reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation for users. The CM also boasts characteristics like being polished, creamy, and frictionless, ensuring reduced friction, smooth key travel, and an overall fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Melodic switch also introduces an invigorating feel, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive typing experience, creating an immersive sensation for users.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provide distinct sound and feel experiences for users to choose from based on their preferences. The CM switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, promising a smooth and bouncy typing journey. In contrast, the Melodic switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, ensuring users can enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with smoothness. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile or a higher-pitched and resonant sound, along with a smoother or more invigorating tactile feel, you can select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for an enhanced mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a deeper, bassy sound profile and a buttery, polished typing experience, the CM linear switch with its full nylon housing and lengthened spring may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher-pitched, resonant sound and an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, the Melodic clicky switch with its smooth lubing and dual-railed stems could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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