TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Smoothie offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Bluish White is a tactile switch that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch made of POM material, offering a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Bluish White is best suited for those who prefer a tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Smoothie appeals to those looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Bluish White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities, the Smoothie opts for a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches offer a different auditory experience due to their contrasting top housing materials, providing users with options based on their sound preferences.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Bluish White incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a fuller and deeper sound profile, while the Smoothie also uses POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches share a similarity in their use of POM for the bottom housing, allowing for a consistent sound profile in the lower register. This commonality in bottom housing materials may appeal to users who prioritize a specific sound when typing on their keyboards.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Smoothie may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics. The Bluish White offers a sharper and crisper sound with the use of polycarbonate, while the Smoothie delivers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a brighter sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with 40 grams. However, the Bluish White has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Bluish White switch provides a more consistent tactile feedback throughout the keystroke process, requiring a bit more force to fully press the key down. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a smoother typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Bluish White being better suited for those who prefer a more tactile and responsive feel, while the Smoothie may be more suitable for users looking for a lighter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Bluish White switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Gateron Smoothie switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and snappy sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a satisfying poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound signature that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a subdued and low-pitched tone for a lightweight touch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Bluish White switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle resistance and refined finish. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and enhanced smoothness for effortless keystrokes. Both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique tactile or linear characteristics.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bluish White switch is known for its low-pitched and snappy sound profile along with a buttery and polished feel, the Gateron Smoothie switch provides a thocky sound signature and a creamy, silky feel for a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. It's important to consider all available information and perhaps try both switches to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best. Although they offer different characteristics, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and seamless typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Bluish White tactile switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a light and poppy tactile switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a buttery feel, the Bluish White may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a creamy or silky feel, the Smoothie might be more up your alley. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired key feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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