Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out with its blend of Nylon and UMPE in the top housing, as well as UMPE and Silicon in the bottom, creating a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is an all-POM switch known for its short travel distance, lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. While the Keygeek Raw is ideal for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is perfect for those seeking a quick and smooth 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches differ in composition and sound profile. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing which offers a unique sound experience exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both provide a distinct sound, the Keygeek Raw's top housing seems to offer a more tailored and exclusive experience compared to the more standardized sound of the Smoothie Silver.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw is a UMPE & Si blend, again exclusive to this switch model. This blend likely contributes to the overall feel and sound experience of the switch when pressed down. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM bottom housing, contributing to its unique sound profile. Despite both switches using different materials for their bottom housing, they each play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Keygeek Raw's blend may offer a different tactile experience compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches showcase the importance of material composition in creating a specific sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw offers a more customized and exclusive sound experience with its Nylon & UPE blend top and UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, the Gateron Smoothie Silver brings a deeper and more muted sound profile with its POM housings. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the materials used in their housing contributing significantly to the overall feel and sound of the switches. Whether exclusive blends or POM materials are preferred, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, while the actuation force is unspecified. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is not provided. This means that the Keygeek Raw is heavier in terms of bottoming out force, while the Smoothie Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force. Individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Keygeek Raw switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, resulting in similar experiences when typing or gaming. This means that both switches offer the same level of keystroke feedback and actuation point. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches indicates that users can expect consistent performance and feel from either option. Whether you choose the Keygeek Raw or the Smoothie Silver, you can count on a smooth and responsive typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound, providing a unique and satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is characterized by a slightly textured feel that may appeal to those who prefer a bit of friction when typing. Additionally, its mild and subtle characteristics create a comfortable typing experience that falls in the middle-ground zone. In contrast, the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is unknown, but given its all-POM construction and smoothness, it is likely to offer a sleek and pleasant typing sensation.
Overall, while the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, both are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the neutral sound and textured feel of the Keygeek Raw switch or the thocky sound and smoothness of the Smoothie Silver switch, you can expect quality and performance from either option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you'll want to consider a few key factors. If you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 57.5 grams and a unique material blend that provides a slightly textured feel out of the box, then the Keygeek Raw may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with an ultra-smooth feel, lightning-fast actuation, and a thocky sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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