KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, you are in for a treat either way. The Kang White is praised for its delightful typing sound and exceptional smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its lightning-fast actuation with a short travel distance, along with a thocky sound and feather-light touch. While the Kang White is known for its low-pitched and neutral characteristics, the Smoothie Silver's categorization remains a mystery. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience. However, both switches boast translucent housing, making them suitable for RGB lighting setups.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Kang White provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users seeking a more subdued typing experience. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver also contributes to a deeper sound profile, with a muted quality that complements the switch's overall acoustic characteristics. Despite their differences in material composition, both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Kang White and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While the Kang White leverages the stiffer polycarbonate for a sharper sound on top and a deeper sound on the bottom with nylon, the Smoothie Silver presents a more consistent deep and muted sound throughout with its POM material. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, and users can choose based on their desired sound profile and typing preferences.
Weight
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initiating a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the KTT Kang White requires a heavier 58 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver, for which the force is unknown. The heavier bottom out force of the Kang White may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the unknown bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver leaves it up to interpretation whether it offers a lighter typing experience or if it falls within a similar range as the Kang White. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of force required for comfortable typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Kang White has a longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie Silver. A longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and stable typing experience for those who prefer deeper key presses. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance can appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer different advantages based on personal preference. Ultimately, if you prioritize faster response times, the Smoothie Silver may be the better choice, while the Kang White offers a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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
In conclusion, when comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences in both sound and feel. The Kang White offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile along with unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver features a thocky sound, smooth actuation, and a feather-light touch thanks to its all-POM construction. However, without detailed information on the feel of the Kang White and the sound of the Smoothie Silver switches, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, so it is important to consider personal typing habits and preferences when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and a smooth typing experience with a poppy linear feel, then the Kang White would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force, a short travel distance for fast actuation, a thocky sound, and a feather-light touch, then the Smoothie Silver could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation speed.
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