Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can vastly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Bsun Cliff, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a pronounced feedback on each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is a linear switch that boasts a short travel distance and lightning-fast actuation, combined with a thocky sound and exceptional smoothness that appeals to gamers and fast typists alike. While the Cliff provides a satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate the feel of a distinct bump, the Smoothie Silver offers a feather-light touch that enables rapid key presses with minimal resistance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, we observe distinct differences that influence their sound profiles. The Cliff utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is primarily due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, allowing for a more resonant output. The translucency of the polycarbonate also offers aesthetic advantages, making it ideal for RGB lighting applications. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver features a top housing made of POM, which is characterized by creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. This difference suggests that while the Cliff might appeal to users seeking clarity and brightness in their typing feedback, the Smoothie Silver may attract those who prefer a softer and more subdued auditory experience.
The bottom housing for both switches further emphasizes their individual sound characteristics. The Bsun Cliff employs a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that delivers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This enhanced absorption of sound results in a duller, rounder acoustic profile, significantly influencing the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing also yields a uniquely pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively muted, aligning it with the sound profiles typically associated with its top housing. Both switches illustrate how the materials used in the bottom housing contribute to a tactile typing experience, albeit in differing magnitudes of loudness and tonal quality.
Ultimately, while the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Smoothie Silver utilize different materials for their housings, they share a commonality in that both aim to deliver distinct auditory experiences through their designs. The differing top and bottom housing materials mean that the sound profiles will differ, with the Cliff providing a brighter sound and the Smoothie Silver offering a darker tone. However, both switches will give users satisfying feedback based on their individual preferences. If one were to combine the materials strategically or adjust their typing technique, achieving a balanced result between sharpness and depth could be conceivable, allowing enthusiasts to tailor their experience based on personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we find differences in their actuation forces that cater to varied user preferences. The Cliff switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions, while the Smoothie Silver necessitates a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. Additionally, the Cliff switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that it provides consistent tactile feedback, whereas the Smoothie Silver lacks a specified bottom out force, leaving that aspect uncertain. Overall, the Cliff is the lighter option, promoting comfort and endurance in use, while the Smoothie Silver provides a firmer key press experience, ideal for users who favor a more robust typing sensation.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Cliff measuring 3.6 mm and the Smoothie Silver slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This difference means that the Cliff provides a more pronounced experience when pressed, appealing to users who prefer a deeper keystroke that feels more substantial. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, offering a snappier feel with less overall travel. Therefore, for those who value a deeper press, the Bsun Cliff is the preferable option, while those looking for enhanced speed may favor the Gateron Smoothie Silver.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Cliff tactile switch delivers a crisp sound signature that many typists find satisfying, providing audible feedback that can enhance the typing experience. This aspect is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response when they press a key. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch produces a thocky sound, which is known for its deep and resonant quality. This gives the Smoothie Silver a distinct auditory profile while typing. Both switches' sound characteristics may vary slightly depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, but the Cliff stands out with its sharper, crisper tones, while the Smoothie Silver offers a fuller, more muted sound.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, allowing users to clearly feel the point of actuation. This tactile bump provides a satisfying resistance that many typists appreciate, creating a balance between feedback and fluidity in typing. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver is characterized by its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light actuation, which makes it feel incredibly effortless to press. Users seeking a light and gliding experience will find this appealing, but it may lack the distinct tactile feedback that some typists enjoy from the Cliff.
In conclusion, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch cater to different preferences, offering unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Cliff excels in delivering a crisp sound and medium tactility, making it ideal for those who enjoy feedback in their typing. Meanwhile, the Smoothie Silver offers a thocky sound complemented by its lightweight, smooth action, suitable for users who prefer swift, uninterrupted keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice between these options will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound clarity or smooth, fast actuation in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, your choice should reflect your preferences in typing feel, sound, and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile sensation while typing, the Cliff is an excellent option due to its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it particularly well-suited for typing tasks where feedback is important. It's also relatively light with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it a good choice if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy that subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed, smoothness, and a quieter operation, the Smoothie Silver linear switch is the way to go. With its all-POM construction and the feather-light actuation, it provides a "thocky" sound that many users find satisfying, especially in gaming setups where rapid keystrokes and fluidity are essential. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value tactile feedback or smooth linear actuation, as both switches cater to different typing experiences.
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