Bsun Kiki Red vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, it becomes apparent that each has its unique qualities to offer. The Kiki Red is renowned for its finely-tuned typing experience, featuring a comfortably high-pitched and clacky nuance without being excessively loud. With all-POM housings and smooth Ly stems, these switches provide exceptional smoothness during actuation and a medium-light weighting for a tactile experience favored by enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. While the Kiki Red is described as clacky, creamy, and easy-to-press, the Smoothie is characterized as buttery, thocky, and low-pitched. 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
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Smoothie share similarities in terms of using POM for both the top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will provide an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. With this shared material, users can expect a consistent sound experience from either switch, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize acoustics in their keyboard setup.
However, while both switches use POM for their housing materials, the impact of these materials may differ based on whether they are used for the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the Kiki Red or the Smoothie, plays a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound produced when a key is released. This difference in housing placement can create a varied tactile experience for users depending on which part of the switch they are interacting with during typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Smoothie will likely come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile. While both switches offer the same housing material in POM, the placement of these materials in the top and bottom housings can lead to nuanced differences in the typing experience. Whether one prefers a switch with a more pronounced bottom-out sound or values the sound when releasing a key, understanding how the housing materials impact these aspects can help users make an informed decision based on their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that the Kiki Red is slightly lighter in both categories. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams, and a bottom out force of 50 grams while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch when typing or gaming. However, for users who prefer a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing experience, they may lean towards the Kiki Red due to its slightly higher bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Kiki Red may be the lighter option for those who enjoy extended typing sessions, while the Smoothie may offer a bit more resistance for a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.6mm. This means that both switches will offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect similar results when typing on either switch as they both provide the same tactile feedback. Whether you choose the Kiki Red or the Smoothie, the travel distance will remain constant, resulting in a satisfying typing experience without any significant differences in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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
As an expert in mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gateron Smoothie offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bsun Kiki Red switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a high-pitched and crisp auditory feedback that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is recognized for its thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying tone with a subdued quality. When it comes to feel, the Kiki Red switch is lauded for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless sensation with a medium-light weighting. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie is described as buttery, creamy, and silky in feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing experience with a lightweight touch.
Overall, while the sound profiles of the two switches differ with the Kiki Red being clacky and the Smoothie leaning towards thocky, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with a high level of smoothness. Whether you choose the Bsun Kiki Red for its nuanced auditory feedback or the Gateron Smoothie for its balance of price and quality, you can expect similar results in terms of a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with minimal resistance and a satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would come down to personal preference in sound profile and design aesthetics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and medium-light weighting, the Kiki Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an affordable switch that offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance (Kiki Red) or a satisfying "thock" sound with smooth key travel (Smoothie). Consider these factors to ensure you select the switch that best suits your typing preferences.
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