TTC Iron vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and the Gateron Smoothie both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron, a linear switch, is renowned for its pronounced clacky sound signature and swift actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience that doesn't fatigue the fingers. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie, also a linear switch, stands out for its thocky sound and exceptional smoothness, offering a creamy and subdued typing experience at a more affordable price point. While the TTC Iron is ideal for those looking for precision and pleasure in each keystroke, the Gateron Smoothie caters to users seeking a buttery and silky typing experience. 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
41g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Iron and the Gateron Smoothie feature POM top and bottom housings, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to other housing materials. This means that both switches offer a similar sound experience when typing, with the POM material contributing to a distinct auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. In terms of sound production, both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience, making them a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts.
Despite both switches utilizing POM materials for their top and bottom housings, the way in which the qualities of these materials are distributed can impact the overall feel of the switch. For the Iron, the POM bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Smoothie also relies on the POM material for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience. This distinction may lead to a slightly different typing experience between the two switches for users who are particularly attentive to subtle nuances in sound and feel.
Overall, both the TTC Iron and the Gateron Smoothie offer a high-quality typing experience with their POM top and bottom housings. The unique sound profile created by the POM material adds a level of sophistication to typing that is favored by many users. While the distribution of qualities within each switch may vary slightly, the overall impact on sound and feel remains similar, making either option a reliable choice for those seeking a tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie's 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Iron requires 50 grams while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Iron switch slightly heavier both for actuation and bottom out. The lighter actuation force of the Smoothie may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, the heavier actuation force of the Iron may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Smoothie has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Iron. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Iron may be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a slightly shallower key press, the Smoothie would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with only a slight variation between them.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, offering a sharp and snappy sound with each press, adding a level of satisfaction to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Iron being more pronounced and percussive, while the Smoothie is more subdued and dampened.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches offer a pleasant typing feel, with the Iron being more gentle and approachable, while the Smoothie is exceptionally smooth and minimizes resistance.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound with an easy-to-press feel, making it a great choice for those seeking a precise and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch stands out for its thocky sound and buttery, creamy, silky feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation at an affordable price point. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with either choice. Ultimately, while the sound and feel may differ, both switches offer quality performance and reliability, ensuring that you'll achieve similar results in terms of keypress accuracy and typing comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a pronounced clacky sound with a light actuation force for swift and satisfying typing sessions, the TTC Iron switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize a thocky sound with remarkable smoothness and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound profile and typing feel that best align with your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that resonates most with you for an enhanced typing experience.
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