TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Smoothie are two options that stand out for their unique qualities. The Gold Red Pro is prized for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience with its ease of press and neutral sound signature. This makes it suitable for a wide range of activities, from gaming to office work to leisurely typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is known for its affordability without compromising on quality, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profiles in their design. The Gold Red Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to create a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile, particularly suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Smoothie features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, they offer distinct auditory experiences to the user.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, the Gold Red Pro opts for a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie uses a POM bottom housing to create a pleasing and unique sound, albeit on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite the different materials used for the bottom housing, both switches prioritize enhancing the typing experience through sound enhancement.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Red Pro and Gateron Smoothie utilize different housing materials, they ultimately strive to provide users with an enhanced typing experience through distinct sound profiles. The choice between polycarbonate and POM for the top housing leads to varying sound characteristics, with the former offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper and more muted sound produced by the latter. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings impact the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, emphasizing a fuller and deeper sound profile in the case of the Gold Red Pro, and a more unique and pleasing sound with the Smoothie. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is slightly heavier at 43 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch at 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to determine which one is heavier in that aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Smoothie, as it requires slightly less force to actuate. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the TTC Gold Red Pro. However, since both switches have unknown bottom out forces, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of typing experience when fully pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing force and the overall feel they desire in their keyboard.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. The Gold Red Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth to the key press compared to the Smoothie. However, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be significant enough to be noticeable in general use. In essence, both switches offer similar travel distances and would result in comparable user experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Gateron Smoothie switches offer a thocky experience with low-pitched tones. The Gold Red Pro possesses a neutral sound profile, ideal for a variety of settings, while the Smoothie has a more subdued sound, which is still satisfyingly deep and rich. Ultimately, both switches will provide a pleasant auditory experience, especially when paired with a high-quality keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie provides a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of key presses, catering to users who value a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, whether you opt for the TTC Gold Red Pro or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you can expect a high level of quality and performance. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying sound profile and a smooth typing feel, making them suitable for various typing tasks and preferences. With either switch, you'll achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel, ensuring a positive typing experience no matter which one you choose.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a versatile switch that offers a neutral sound profile and a sleek typing experience suitable for various settings, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch without breaking the bank, the Gateron Smoothie could be the perfect fit. Whether you value adaptability or affordability in a switch, both the Gold Red Pro and Smoothie have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you're looking to achieve.
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