KTT Matcha vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha's tactile characteristics stand out with its comfortable and snappy keystrokes, along with a clean bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is renowned for its smoothness, thocky sound signature, and lightweight touch, making it a budget-friendly option. While the Matcha offers a more tactile typing experience, the Smoothie provides a smoother and quieter 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Smoothie, one can see clear differences in both sound profile and aesthetics. The Matcha features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while also allowing for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can lead to a different typing experience for users based on their preference for sound feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Matcha once again utilizes polycarbonate to create a clear and resonant sound profile. This material, being relatively stiffer, contributes to a sharper sound when bottoming out a key. In comparison, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and more muted. This difference in sound profiles between the two switches can cater to users with different preferences for typing sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing material in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Matcha and Smoothie may have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities each material brings ultimately affect both the bottom-out and the release sound of the switch. Users looking for a sharper, crisper sound may prefer the polycarbonate housing of the Matcha, while those seeking a more muted and deeper sound may lean towards the POM housing of the Smoothie. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound feedback and typing feel.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and Gateron Smoothie linear switch have similar actuation forces at 40 grams. However, the Matcha has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The Matcha is considered lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Smoothie. When comparing the two, the Matcha provides a light and tactile typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Smoothie's bottom out force being unknown could indicate a potentially heavier typing feel, catering to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing experience and desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie. A difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant at first, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times might prefer the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Smoothie, while those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may lean towards the 4 mm travel distance of the Matcha. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distances, catering to the preferences of different users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha offers a clacky and crisp sound with a clean bottom-out due to its long pole stem, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie gives off a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound signature that is deep and rich, catering to those who prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Matcha leaning towards a sharper and brighter sound, while the Smoothie provides a deeper and softer tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, offering a tactile experience that is responsive, enjoyable, and light to press. The Gateron Smoothie, on the other hand, is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation that allows fingers to glide easily across the keys. Both switches offer unique tactile and typing experiences, with the Matcha focusing on responsiveness and tactility, while the Smoothie prioritizes smoothness and fluidity in keystrokes.
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch each have their own subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, typists can choose between the sharper and snappier sound of the Matcha or the deeper and smoother sound of the Smoothie. Similarly, for typing feel, users can opt for the responsive and light tactile experience of the Matcha or the seamless and effortless typing sensation of the Smoothie. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, providing a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a comfortable and snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the sound and feel you prefer while typing.
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