TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are two popular options to consider. The Gold Pink is a linear switch with a 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. It provides a fast and effortless typing experience, perfect for rapid typing or gaming, and offers a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is also a linear switch but features a short travel distance for lightning-fast actuation. It boasts a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
45g
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
Nylon
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
The TTC Gold Pink and Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, with the Gold Pink utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing and a POM bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Gold Pink results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to those who prefer a softer typing sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon in the case of the Gold Pink and POM in the case of the Smoothie Silver. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. Similarly, the POM bottom housing in the Smoothie Silver contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, offering a more subdued typing experience. Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, both the Gold Pink and Smoothie Silver offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing sound.
Overall, the choice between the Gold Pink and Smoothie Silver ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Gold Pink, with its combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offers a more distinct and resonant typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a sharper sound. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver, with its POM top and bottom housing, provides a deeper and more muted sound profile, appealing to users looking for a softer typing sound. While the housing materials may differ between the two switches, both offer quality sound profiles that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Pink is lighter in both aspects. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Pink would be the preferred choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Smoothie Silver may be more suitable due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Pink. The shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Gold Pink may offer a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switch offers a thocky sound that is unique to POM switches, with a smooth and pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch is often described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These qualities result in a light and smooth typing experience that is comfortable even during extended use. On the other hand, the feel of the Smoothie Silver switch is not explicitly described in the provided information. However, since it is an all-POM switch with a short travel distance and feather-light touch, it is likely to offer a smooth and effortless typing experience similar to the Gold Pink switch in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Gold Pink and Smoothie Silver switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch is best suited for those who prefer a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Smoothie Silver switch is ideal for users looking for a smooth and thocky typing experience with a short travel distance. Both switches are designed to provide a fast and effortless typing experience, making them suitable for rapid typists and gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Pink linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and effortless typing experience with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink switches with their 37g actuation force are a great choice for rapid typists or gamers. On the other hand, if you value lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switches may be more suited to your needs. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Pink and Smoothie Silver switches will depend on what feels best for your typing style and preferences.
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