Gateron Mars vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, gamers and typists alike often find themselves weighing their options carefully. Among the offerings from Gateron, two notable linear switches stand out: the Gateron Mars and the Gateron Smoothie. The Mars switch is celebrated for its innovative design, combining a POK stem with a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, lending it a distinct feel and responsiveness. In contrast, the Smoothie, crafted entirely from POM, is renowned for its thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness, all while being budget-friendly. Each switch appeals to different preferences—whether you value the unique design of the Mars or the silky, subdued touch of the Smoothie. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and Gateron Smoothie switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly affects their auditory characteristics during use. The Mars switch features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture and sound absorption qualities. This material is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile that tends to be warmer and more rounded. In contrast, the Smoothie's top housing is made from POM (polyoxymethylene), which, like nylon, contributes to a muted and deeper sound. However, POM is generally considered harder than nylon, potentially resulting in a crisper articulation in sound. Thus, while both switches aim for a satisfying auditory experience, the nature of their housing materials imparts subtle distinctions in how those sounds manifest during typing.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, we find they both use POM material, which is known for providing a pleasing and unique sound profile. This consistency in material between the two models means that both switches produce a deeper sound characteristic when pressed down, making their bottom-out sounds resonate similarly. The use of POM in the bottom housing leads to a comparable tactile response, contributing to that unmistakable feedback that typists appreciate. As a result, users can expect a consistent auditory experience when utilizing either switch, primarily driven by the common POM use in both models.
In summary, while the Gateron Mars and Smoothie switches diverge in their top housing material—nylon for the Mars and POM for the Smoothie—their bottom housings share the same material, which promotes similar qualities in terms of auditory response. This interplay between top and bottom housing gives the Mars a softer yet richer sound upon release, whereas the Smoothie's POM top may deliver a sharper sound experience. Despite these differences, users will find both types of switches result in a satisfying overall typing experience due to the enhanced sound dynamics provided by their carefully chosen materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Mars switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the heavier option, whereas the Smoothie switch requires only 40 grams of force to actuate, making it the lighter choice. This variance means that typists and gamers who prefer a light touch may find the Smoothie more comfortable for extended use, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel might prefer the Mars switch. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, making it challenging to directly compare their performance when pressing all the way down; however, the actuation forces alone suggest that users can expect a difference in typing feel and effort required between the two options.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users can expect an identical feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This equality in travel distance ensures that typing experience remains consistent regardless of which switch is used. With both switches providing the same travel distance, users can enjoy similar tactile feedback and responsiveness, making either choice equally suitable for those who prefer a linear switch feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 Gateron Mars switch lacks specific descriptors, making it challenging to assess its auditory characteristics directly. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch is celebrated for its thocky sound signature, producing a deep and satisfying tone reminiscent of a well-damped thud upon activation. It boasts a low-pitched quality that favors a bass-heavy and mellow experience, creating an overall sound that is both subtle and rich. The Smoothie's auditory profile is complemented by its subdued nature, ensuring that while it remains audible, it does not overpower the typing experience. The sound performance of both switches can ultimately vary based on factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap choice, but the Smoothie's attributes certainly give it a distinctive auditory advantage.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Mars switch does not have an explicit description available, leaving its tactile qualities somewhat ambiguous. On the other hand, the Smoothie is characterized by a unique buttery texture, which provides a seamless and fluid keystroke experience. The creamy sensation it imparts allows for effortless typing, making it feel like your fingers glide with ease over the keys. This silky smoothness emphasizes minimal resistance, enhancing the overall typing experience and making it more enjoyable. The distinct tactile feedback offered by the Smoothie switches is likely to appeal to those seeking a high-level typing comfort.
In summary, while the Gateron Mars switch lacks defined characteristics in both sound and feel, the Gateron Smoothie switch provides a rich auditory experience alongside a remarkably smooth typing sensation. If you value a pronounced thocky sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, the Smoothie is likely the superior choice. If you're open to exploring the Mars switch, you may find it offers a satisfying typing experience as well, though you'll need to consider the specific board and keycaps for a complete evaluation. Ultimately, both switches can bring satisfying results, but the Smoothie's attributes shine through in its sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a switch that emphasizes a unique combination of materials for potentially enhanced durability and a distinctive response, the Mars may be the better option for you. However, if you prioritize sound characteristics alongside a remarkably smooth keyboard experience, the Smoothie stands out with its thocky sound signature and creamy feel that delivers an effortless keystroke. The Smoothie is ideal for users who enjoy a deeper, mellower tone and a silky typing experience, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming. Conversely, if tactile feedback and a unique aesthetic appeal are essential to your experience, you might lean towards the Mars. Ultimately, take into account not just the specifications but also how each switch's characteristics align with your habits and preferences to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
