Huano Grape Orange vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both present attractive options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The Grape Orange switches are renowned for their ultra-light 40g actuation force, offering a remarkably effortless typing experience that caters to those who spend long hours on their keyboards. This feature can significantly reduce finger fatigue during extensive typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches boast a short travel distance and a thocky sound, providing lightning-fast actuation paired with unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch. This makes the Smoothie Silver an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While both switches offer unique advantages, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it's significant to note the different materials used in their constructions. The Grape Orange employs a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile, making keystrokes resonate more clearly, especially under RGB lighting. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. The differences in top housing materials mean that typing experiences will vary significantly, with the Grape Orange providing a sharper auditory feedback while the Smoothie Silver offers a more subdued ambiance, appealing to users who prefer a softer approach.

The bottom housing of the two switches is another area where distinctions can be found. The Grape Orange utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. This results in a typing experience that can feel more rounded and less sharp. Meanwhile, the Smoothie Silver uses a POM bottom housing, which, while still offering a deep and muted sound, is slightly different in character from nylon. Though both materials contribute to a more muted sound, the nylon in the Grape Orange provides a distinct performance that may resonate differently with typists. Together, these variations contribute to the overall acoustic characteristics of each switch.

Combining the unique properties of each switch’s housing, we can deduce how they impact the typing experience. The nuances of sound produced by the two switches reveal that while the Grape Orange’s polycarbonate top and nylon bottom create a more resonant keystroke, the Smoothie Silver's POM materials establish a more uniform acoustic profile throughout. This is important to consider for users selecting between the two; the Grape Orange will likely engage users who prioritize high-pitched auditory feedback and RGB aesthetics, while the Smoothie Silver appeals to those who favor a softer, more muted typing experience. Ultimately, even though the materials contribute distinctly to the overall sound, if users are seeking similar results in terms of deep auditory feedback, they may find the Grape Orange's nylon bottom complements its polycarbonate top for a fuller experience, but will still be markedly different than the overall smoothness of the Smoothie Silver.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches, the differences in actuation force are notable, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver remains unknown. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a switch that requires less effort and can enhance comfort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. The Grape Orange's bottom out force is 50 grams, indicating that it offers a bit of resistance at the end of the key press, which can provide tactile feedback. Since the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver isn't available, we cannot draw a direct comparison on that aspect. However, if the bottom out pressure were to be similar to the Grape Orange, users could expect a consistent typing experience across both switches, albeit with the added weight on the Smoothie Silver for the actuation feel.

Travel distance

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch differ in travel distance, with the Grape Orange having a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Smoothie Silver's shorter distance of 3.4 mm. Given the trend toward shorter travel distances for increased responsiveness, gamers might lean towards the Smoothie Silver for its quicker actuation. However, those who favor a more pronounced feel while typing may find the Grape Orange's longer travel distance more satisfying, as it offers a deeper keypress. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on an individual's preference for response time versus the tactile feedback provided by a longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Grape Orange linear switch is characterized by a relatively subtle auditory profile, allowing for a quiet typing experience that won't disrupt those around you, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver linear switch boasts a thocky sound, which is often preferred by many for its satisfying acoustic feedback while still remaining on the quieter side compared to tactile or clicky switches. The sound of both switches can vary based on the keyboard they are paired with and the type of keycaps used, so it’s worth experimenting to find the perfect combination for your preferences.

When focusing on feel, the Grape Orange switch stands out with its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, contributing to an effortless and buttery smooth typing experience. This switch design is ideal for long typing sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. On theother hand, the Smoothie Silver switch also offers a light touch, thanks to its short travel distance coupled with a design aimed at providing lightning-fast actuation. Both switches cater to users who prefer a light and smooth typing sensation, ensuring a fast and comfortable experience.

In conclusion, both the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches present distinct yet appealing qualities for users seeking smooth and responsive typing experiences. The Grape Orange excels with its ultra-light actuation force, while the Smoothie Silver thrives on its unique sound profile and swift actuation. Though they may appeal to slightly different preferences, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience, particularly suited for extended use and quick keystrokes, ensuring you’ll be pleased with either choice.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a light and effortless typing experience, especially during long typing sessions, the Grape Orange switch is a fantastic option with its ultra-low 40g actuation force and a bottom-out force of 50 grams. This switch is ideal if you seek a smoother and less fatiguing feel without compromising on responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and a thocky sound profile, the Smoothie Silver switch may be your perfect match, boasting its short travel distance for lightning-fast actuation and exceptional smoothness thanks to its all-POM construction. The Smoothie Silver's feather-light touch enhances rapid keystrokes, making it suitable for gaming or fast-paced typing requirements. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits, so consider what aspects are most important to you—comfort versus speed—and make your choice accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more