Jerrzi Orange vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Orange and Gateron Smoothie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jerrzi Orange stands out for its clacky linear design, providing a lightweight and responsive feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie boasts a thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness due to its all-POM construction. While the Orange offers a vibrant and lively typing experience, the Smoothie provides a creamy and subdued feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different types of keyboard users. 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Smoothie differ in their construction. The Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Orange's polycarbonate housing, being clear, is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, whereas the Smoothie's POM housing offers a unique and pleasing sound profile.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, both switches have distinct materials. The Orange's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, complementing the characteristics of its top housing. While both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, they each have a unique impact on the typing experience.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Smoothie results in a varied typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a blend of qualities that impact both the sound and feel of the switch. The switch's bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is lighter at 37 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch at 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Orange switch may make it more appealing to users who prefer a softer touch and a lighter typing experience, which can be beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Smoothie switch may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Orange offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Smoothie. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Orange due to its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Smoothie. Ultimately, both switches provide a relatively similar travel distance experience, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Orange linear switch offers a clacky and lively typing experience with a crisp and audible feedback, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky and mellow sound that is deep and satisfying. Both switches have a subdued sound profile, but the Orange switch leans towards a sharper and brighter sound, whereas the Smoothie switch offers a more bass-heavy and rich tone. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a snappy and percussive noise or a deep and thocky sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation that glides effortlessly across the keys. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Orange switch emphasizes lightness and low-impact typing, whereas the Smoothie switch focuses on a seamless and fluid keystroke feel. Depending on whether you prefer a lighter touch or a smooth glide, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style.
Overall, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch is characterized by its clacky sound and feathery feel, delivering a responsive and vibrant typing experience, while the Smoothie switch provides a thocky sound and buttery feel, ensuring a satisfying and smooth typing sensation. Both switches excel in certain aspects, so the decision between the two will ultimately come down to your personal preferences for sound and typing experience. Ultimately, with either switch, you can expect a high-quality linear switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a clacky and lively typing experience with a crisp and audible feedback, the Orange switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky and smooth typing experience with a lightweight touch, the Smoothie switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches boils down to personal preference in sound and feel, so consider what type of typing experience you value most before making your decision.
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