Bsun Cinnamon Pink vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and Gateron Smoothie Silver both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cinnamon Pink, a linear switch, stands out for its distinctively clacky sound and smooth action, making each keystroke comfortable and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver, also a linear switch, boasts a short travel distance for quick actuation, a thocky sound, and feather-light touch. While the Cinnamon Pink leans towards providing a medium-light typing feel with a polished and silky experience, the Smoothie Silver focuses on lightning-fast actuation and unparalleled smoothness. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.45 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink and Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature POM top and bottom housings, with the same description of creating a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively muted. This means that in terms of sound profile, both switches will offer similar results, making them appealing options for those looking for a particular sound experience. However, the different color options may appeal to different aesthetics and preferences.
Where the two switches may differ is in the overall feel when typing. The qualities of the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released. This means that while both switches may offer a similar sound profile, the overall typing experience may vary slightly between the two based on the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings.
In terms of construction, both the Cinnamon Pink and Smoothie Silver utilize POM material for their top and bottom housings. POM is known for its durability and smooth finish, which can contribute to a consistent and reliable typing experience. However, the choice between the two switches may ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, as the differences in the distribution of housing qualities may lead to a slightly different typing feel between the two.
Weight
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Cinnamon Pink easier to trigger. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cinnamon Pink requires 42 grams while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The Cinnamon Pink would be preferred for those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver may be the choice for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push force. Overall, the Cinnamon Pink is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Smoothie Silver, providing a different typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.45 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, with the Cinnamon Pink being slightly longer than the Smoothie Silver. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Cinnamon Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cinnamon Pink for $3.83.
The Gateron Smoothie Silver 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 Silver 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 Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch offers a distinctively clacky and sharp sound, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience that is not overpowering. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound, which is characterized by a deep and muffled tone. Both switches can offer a satisfying auditory feedback, but the Cinnamon Pink switch leans towards a more lively and percussive sound compared to the Smoothie Silver.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. These attributes result in a silky sensation that allows for effortless keystrokes with minimal resistance, offering comfort and smooth key travel. In contrast, information on the typing feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is not provided. However, based on the description of a short travel distance and feather-light touch, it can be inferred that the Smoothie Silver may provide a swift and light typing experience, potentially lacking the same level of smoothness and frictionless feel as the Cinnamon Pink.
Overall, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch excels in delivering a balanced combination of a clacky sound and a smooth typing feel, making it a favorable choice for users seeking an engaging and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a unique sound profile with its thocky sound and likely provides a swift and light typing feel. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can cater to different typing styles and preferences, ultimately resulting in a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a medium-light typing feel with a distinctively clacky sound and smooth action, the Cinnamon Pink may be the ideal choice for you. Its balance of comfort and auditory experience makes it a popular option for those who value both aesthetics and functionality in their typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer feather-light touch with lightning-fast actuation and a thocky sound, the Smoothie Silver might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey.
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