Bsun Guyu vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Guyu and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are key differences to consider. The Bsun Guyu is renowned for its unique auditory experience, offering a bright and crisp bottom-out sound due to its POM housing and long pole stem. With a medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes, typing on the Guyu switch is like gliding effortlessly with resonant feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts lightning-fast actuation thanks to its short travel distance, along with a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Each switch offers a different typing experience with distinct characteristics - the Guyu being 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', while the Smoothie Silver remains uncategorized. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Guyu and Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature POM top and bottom housings, which are known for creating a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to other housing materials. This results in a more subdued typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter keyboard. In terms of sound profile, both switches offer similar characteristics due to their shared POM housing materials, delivering a consistent auditory experience across the board.
However, where the Bsun Guyu and Gateron Smoothie Silver differ is in the overall construction and design of their housing components. While both switches utilize POM for their top and bottom housings, the internal structure and composition of each may vary. This can lead to subtle differences in the feel and sound of the switches when typing, providing users with a nuanced typing experience depending on their preference for tactile feedback and key press response. Despite their similar POM housing materials, these differences in construction may result in unique typing experiences for each switch.
In terms of functionality, the role of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch is crucial to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch tends to impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By utilizing POM for both the top and bottom housings, the Bsun Guyu and Gateron Smoothie Silver are able to provide a consistent typing experience that focuses on a deeper, muted sound profile. This attention to detail in housing material choice allows for a harmonious blend of tactile feedback and auditory response, ensuring that users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Guyu has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Guyu switch is heavier when it comes to bottoming out compared to the Smoothie Silver. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force can be beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a similar actuation force, but the Guyu offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the Smoothie Silver.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Smoothie Silver for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, the Guyu may appeal to those who prefer a slightly deeper key press sensation. Overall, both switches offer slightly different tactile experiences due to their minor difference in travel distance, with the Smoothie Silver being the shorter of the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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
The Bsun Guyu linear switch is known for its clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy bottom-out noise that adds a bright and percussive element to typing sessions. This is due to the unique all-POM housing and long pole stem, creating a distinct auditory experience that combines depth and clarity for a satisfying typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is described as having a thocky sound, which provides a different auditory sensation compared to the Guyu. The sound of each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual preferences will play a significant role in determining which sound profile is preferred.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Guyu linear switch is favored for its creamy and frictionless typing experience. The use of high-grade UPE stem and intricate design results in a smooth and buttery keystroke, offering a silky sensation as fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. The polished finish of the switch further enhances the typing feel, minimizing resistance and providing a refined typing experience. In contrast, information on the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is currently unavailable.
In conclusion, the Bsun Guyu linear switch stands out for its unique auditory experience with a clacky sound and creamy, polished feel resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound and lightning-fast actuation, although details on its feel are currently unknown. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can cater to a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the unique characteristics of each. If you value a distinctive auditory experience with a medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes, the Guyu may be the ideal choice for you. The Guyu offers a balance of depth and clarity in sound, giving you an unmatched typing rhythm. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound and feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer the creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, or snappy typing feel of the Guyu, or the specific undisclosed characteristics of the Smoothie Silver that suit your typing style. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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