Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Smoothie, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Ginger Milk switch is known for its soft and pastel design, reflecting the typing experience it provides with a silky smooth and approachable push feel, accompanied by a muted, snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie gains recognition for its all-POM construction that delivers a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. While the Ginger Milk switch is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery', the Gateron Smoothie is described with labels like 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Smoothie serve different purposes in creating the overall sound profile of the switches. The Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Smoothie's POM top housing offers a unique sound that is deeper and more muted, providing a different typing experience. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Ginger Milk utilizes nylon which generates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also delivers a deep and muted sound, similar to its top housing material. While the specific properties of nylon and POM may differ slightly, both materials contribute to creating a satisfying sound profile that complements the overall typing feel of the switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Smoothie play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. The combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings influences the typing experience in various ways. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate creating a sharp sound in the Ginger Milk or the soft nylon absorbing more sound in the same switch, each material brings its unique characteristics to enhance the overall user experience. Similarly, the POM material in the Smoothie contributes to a distinct sound profile that adds depth and uniqueness to the typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches achieve similar results in delivering a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience through their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch differ significantly. The Ginger Milk has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Smoothie's lighter 40 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ginger Milk requires 63.5 grams, which is heavier than the Smoothie's unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Ginger Milk provides a medium-heavy typing experience, which may suit those looking for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie offers a lighter actuation force, which could be preferred by users looking for a switch that is easier to type on for longer periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the Ginger Milk switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie switch. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the key press, the Ginger Milk may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more abrupt and quick key press, the Smoothie switch could be more suitable. Overall, both switches offer relatively short travel distances, providing a responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of typing needs. It produces a muted, snappy sound that is not too loud or intrusive. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and rich, creating a satisfying auditory experience. The Smoothie also offers a more subdued sound compared to many other switches, giving it a more mellow tone overall.
When it comes to feel, both the Ginger Milk and Smoothie switches are described as offering a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, providing a seamless and effortless typing feel. Additionally, the Smoothie switch is also described as creamy, which adds to the overall silky sensation when typing with these switches. The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch gives a silky smooth push feel that is approachable and enjoyable, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, both the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer high-quality typing experiences with their unique sound and feel profiles. While the Ginger Milk switch provides a more neutral sound and a buttery feel, the Smoothie switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a creamy, silky smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, either of these switches would be a great choice for those looking for a top-tier mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your preference for the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a soft and pastel typing experience with a muted, snappy sound profile, and a neutral sound and buttery feel, then the Ginger Milk switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, along with a low-pitched, subdued sound profile and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, then the Gateron Smoothie switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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