TTC Gold Silver vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver

Overview

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their distinct advantages. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, providing a solid bottom-out with each keystroke and a resonant sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Smoothie Silver prioritizes quick actuation and a light touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Silver Linear

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is clear that both switches offer unique characteristics. The Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for users looking for a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver opts for a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a translucent housing, making them compatible with RGB lighting for a visually appealing setup.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This makes typing on the Gold Silver switches a more tactile and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver incorporates a POM bottom housing, which complements the POM top housing by producing a similar deep and muted sound profile. Both switches offer a consistent sound experience throughout the typing process, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.

In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Smoothie Silver differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience with a fuller sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM top and bottom housing combination results in a deeper and more muted sound, providing users with a quieter typing experience. Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities that make them suitable for a variety of typing preferences.

Weight

The TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have an unknown value. This means that while the actuation force is the same, the bottom out force could potentially differ between the two switches. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of these switches as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, ideal for work or gaming marathons. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with a heavier bottom out force for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches offer a similar actuation experience due to their matching actuation force, but the difference in bottom out force could potentially influence the overall typing feel for users.

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Gold Silver provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Smoothie Silver, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each key press. The neutral sound signature makes it suitable for various settings, whether for work or leisure. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided, so we can infer that it may not have as distinct of a sound profile as the Gold Silver. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver is praised for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience. The smooth and refined finish of the switch, coupled with its gentle resistance, offers a comfortable and fluid typing feel. This ensures that each keystroke is pleasant and effortless, suitable for extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch are not provided, making it difficult to directly compare the tactile experience with the Gold Silver. However, being an all-POM switch, the Smoothie Silver likely offers a smooth and lightweight typing experience.

Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver excels in delivering a rapid and decisive typing experience with a resonant sound profile, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver likely provides a fast actuation with a thocky sound, smoothness, and feather-light touch. If you enjoy a swift and precise typing experience with a deep sound resonance, the Gold Silver may be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and lightweight typing feel with a satisfying thocky sound, the Smoothie Silver could be a great alternative. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you seek.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing feel and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more