Jerrzi Orange vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the distinct differences in their characteristics. The Jerrzi Orange is a linear switch that is well-known for its clacky and lightweight feel, offering a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is also a linear switch but stands out for its all-POM construction, short travel distance, and thocky sound. While the Orange switch provides a responsive and vibrant typing experience, the Smoothie Silver offers unparalleled smoothness and lightning-fast actuation. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, one notable difference is in the top housing material. The Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While the Orange's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing offers a more unique and pleasing auditory experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches take different approaches. The Orange's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softness that absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder tone. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. Despite the difference in material, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience through their choice of bottom housing material.
Overall, while the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver may have different top and bottom housing materials, they both prioritize creating a unique sound profile for users. The Orange's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials leads to a distinct typing sound that is sharper and fuller, while the Smoothie Silver's use of POM in both top and bottom housings offers a deeper and more muted sound experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a crisper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted one, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance.
Weight
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Orange switch will require less force to register a keystroke, making it a preferred choice for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to compare the force required to press the keys all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience or a heavier actuation force for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer different advantages based on their actuation force, providing users with options to suit their individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both offer different travel distances, with the Orange having a longer distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming more popular, the Orange switch may provide a slightly more substantial feel when pressed. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Smoothie Silver with its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke might opt for the Jerrzi Orange switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 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 Jerrzi Orange switches are known for their clacky and lively sound profile, providing a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches offer a thocky sound with unparalleled smoothness, creating a unique typing experience. While the Orange switches have a more pronounced and sharp sound, the Smoothie Silver switches are described as producing a quieter sound, but with a distinct smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound, as both switches offer different auditory experiences.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Orange switches are characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light and comfortable typing experience. These switches are designed to reduce finger fatigue and strain, making them ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches have a short travel distance for fast actuation, but specific descriptions of their feel are not provided. Both switches offer a lightweight touch, but the Orange switches focus more on comfort and reduced fatigue, while the Smoothie Silver switches prioritize speed and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Orange linear switches are best suited for those who prefer a clacky and lively sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches cater to individuals looking for a thocky sound with unparalleled smoothness and lightning-fast actuation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that will appeal to different preferences, so it's important to test them out firsthand to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a lively and clacky typing sound with a lightweight feel, then the Jerrzi Orange switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, and an ultra-smooth feel, then the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches would be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider your typing style, preference for sound and feel, and intended use case to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences for the optimal typing experience.
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