Jerrzi Coral vs. Gateron Smoothie

Overview

When comparing the Jerrzi Coral and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it's clear that they each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The Coral switch is recognized for its crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, providing a balance of sophistication and performance. On the other hand, the Smoothie boasts a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. Choosing the Coral may appeal to those seeking a nuanced typing experience, while the Smoothie may attract those looking for a softer, buttery feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Jerrzi Coral Linear

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Jerrzi Coral and Gateron Smoothie switches provide unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Coral's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while also allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. In contrast, the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both materials have their own distinct aesthetic and sound qualities, catering to different preferences in switch customization.

When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Coral uses nylon which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to other harder plastics. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings offer a similar sound experience with their ability to produce a satisfyingly deep tone.

In terms of overall feel and sound experience, the different housing materials of the Coral and Smoothie switches impact the typing experience in unique ways. The qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the sound when pressing down and releasing a key. While the Coral may have a sharper sound upon key release due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Smoothie's POM top housing provides a more balanced and muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, with each offering a distinct typing experience for enthusiasts.

Weight

The Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch both have an actuation force of 40 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. This means that the amount of force required to fully press the keys all the way down is unclear for both switches. When comparing the actuation forces, both the Coral and the Smoothie provide a light typing experience, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push force, it may be necessary to look for other options with a higher actuation force. Ultimately, whether a lighter or heavier actuation force is preferred is a personal preference that can greatly impact the typing experience.

Travel distance

The Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant in practical terms, as they are both relatively short compared to traditional switch travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the Jerrzi Coral and Gateron Smoothie switches will come down to personal preference for the specific feel and response of the switch, with the Coral offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is known for its low-pitched resonance, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that can make each key press a soothing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch produces a thocky sound signature, combining a deep, rich "thud" or "knock" when pressed with a more subdued sound profile. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Coral leaning towards a lower pitch and the Smoothie providing a thocky yet subdued sound. The ultimate sound experience can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycap choice, adding another layer of customization for users.

In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Coral switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie switch is likened to a buttery and creamy typing sensation, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of use, with the Coral emphasizing a silky feel while the Smoothie focuses on a buttery and creamy touch. Whether users prefer a silky typing experience or a buttery feel, both switches excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for extended use.

In conclusion, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Coral leans towards a low-pitched resonance and a silky typing feel, the Smoothie boasts a thocky sound profile with a buttery and creamy typing sensation. Users will find that both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in typing, providing unique experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Coral or the Smoothie, you can expect a high-quality linear switch that delivers an exquisite balance of performance and sophistication for a delightful typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prioritize a crisp typing feel with lower-pitched resonance, the Coral switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie switch might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Jerrzi Coral Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more