KTT Laurel vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light actuation force, along with a full POM housing that provides a comfortable typing experience. Its short travel distance and long pole design ensure responsiveness while maintaining a subtle low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out with its all-POM construction, lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. While the Laurel excels in a balanced blend of responsiveness and comfort, the Smoothie Silver prioritizes speed and smoothness. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are both made of POM, which creates a unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This means that both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with a pleasant sound when pressing down on the keys. The similarity in housing materials ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
However, where the differences lie is in how the qualities of the POM housing are distributed between the top and bottom housings of each switch. The bottom housing of a switch has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when lifting off a key. This means that despite the shared material, the Laurel and Smoothie Silver may have subtle variations in sound and feel based on how the qualities of the POM housing are utilized in each part of the switch.
Overall, whether you choose the KTT Laurel or the Gateron Smoothie Silver, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile. The use of POM housing in both switches ensures a consistent and pleasing sound when typing, while the slight differences in how the housing qualities are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch may provide a unique typing feel for each option. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience that enthusiasts and gamers alike can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 grams. However, the Laurel has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver is unknown. This means that while the Laurel may require less force to initially activate a keypress, it may provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Laurel with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the differences in travel distance between the two switches are minimal, and users can expect similar results from both in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
Overall, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile and snappy feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balance of comfort and responsiveness in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch boasts a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, appealing to users who prioritize a buttery-smooth typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a bass-heavy and mellow sound, the Laurel may be the way to go, while those looking for an extremely smooth and light keystroke may lean towards the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's recommended to try them out firsthand to see which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you value a light bottom out force, a medium-light linear switch with a low-pitched sound profile, and a snappy feel, then the KTT Laurel switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an all-POM switch with unparalleled smoothness, a feather-light touch, and a thocky sound profile, then the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch might be more to your liking. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or responsiveness, and choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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