Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Crystal is known for its elastic type feel and medium-light weight, providing a linear typing experience that is both smooth and unique. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts a short travel distance for quick actuation, along with a thocky sound, smoothness, and a feather-light touch. While the Crystals offer a neutral sound profile, the Smoothie Silvers provide a more distinct sound experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, the housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The Crystal features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver boasts a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. It is interesting to see how the choice of housing material can impact the auditory experience of typing on these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the polycarbonate material used in the Crystal continues to contribute to its sharp and crisp sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the overall clarity and resonance of the sound. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver creates a more pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. This highlights how the bottom housing material can influence the sound produced when bottoming out the keys on these switches.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal and Gateron Smoothie Silver may have different housing materials, they both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance between the impact of pressing down on a key and releasing it. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Crystal or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Smoothie Silver, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Outemu Crystal has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie Silver is not specified. The Outemu Crystal is considered to have a medium-light actuation and bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the weight of the Gateron Smoothie Silver remains unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of typing feel. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Outemu Crystal may offer a more substantial typing experience due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, weight is an essential factor to consider when choosing between these switches, with lighter options being better for long typing sessions and heavier options providing a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Smoothie Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Crystal offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some may prefer for a more satisfying key press. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched acoustic profile, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch provides a thocky sound that is smooth and pleasant to the ear. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is known for its polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch boasts a feather-light touch and unparalleled smoothness due to its all-POM construction and short travel distance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, but the Crystal switch may appeal more to those who prefer a polished and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Crystal switch provides a chirpy sound and polished feel, while the Smoothie Silver switch offers a thocky sound and feather-light touch. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can enhance your typing experience with their distinct characteristics. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycap combinations will allow you to determine which one best suits your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Crystal linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a unique, linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value lightning-fast actuation with an all-POM construction, along with a thocky sound and feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch could be the right fit. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type on your mechanical keyboard.
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