Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Smoothie, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a silky typing experience complemented by a light diffuser for vibrant RGB illumination. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky sound, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all at an affordable price point. While the Lightning Silver V3 excels in creating a distinct typing atmosphere, the Gateron Smoothie prioritizes a buttery and subdued feel. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Smoothie, we find that both switches have distinct characteristics based on their top and bottom housing materials. The Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the Smoothie boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the different acoustic experiences that can be achieved based on the housing material used.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches also showcase differences in their housing materials. The Lightning Silver V3 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile. Meanwhile, the Smoothie adopts a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. These distinctions in sound profiles between the bottom housing materials further demonstrate how a switch's overall sound can be influenced by the combination of top and bottom housing materials.
Overall, while the Lightning Silver V3 and the Gateron Smoothie may have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The contrasting characteristics of polycarbonate and POM housing materials allow users to experience a variety of sound profiles, from sharper and crisper tones to deeper and more muted sounds. Whether opting for the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 or the Gateron Smoothie, users can expect a distinct auditory experience based on the housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie's lighter 40 grams. When it comes to the bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams, while the Smoothie's force remains unknown. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the stronger push feel of the Lightning Silver V3 for a more substantial typing experience. Despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, especially gamers. However, the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to individuals looking for an even quicker key press. On the other hand, the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance, which could provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer similar performance in terms of travel distance, so you can expect similar results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch boasts a thocky and low-pitched sound, creating a deep, rich sound profile with a more mellow tone. Depending on your preference for sound, the Lightning Silver V3 will give you a sharper and snappier typing experience, while the Smoothie will provide a more satisfying and subdued sound.
In terms of feel, the Lightning Silver V3 switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch is likened to being buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Whether you prefer a silky typing experience or a buttery and creamy feel, both switches aim to enhance the overall smoothness of your typing.
Overall, if you enjoy a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination and a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is a great choice. However, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy typing feel, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Rest assured, both switches will provide a high-quality typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky and low-pitched sound with a buttery or creamy typing feel, the Gateron Smoothie could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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