KTT Matcha vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, you're presented with two distinct typing experiences. The KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, offers a comfortable and snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver, a linear switch, boasts lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound, smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Silver, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics to the sound profile of the switches. The Matcha's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Furthermore, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches also showcase differences in sound profile. The Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the qualities of the top housing, providing a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. This shows how the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom can influence the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, while the Matcha and Smoothie Silver may differ in their housing materials and the sound profiles they offer, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on the qualities of their respective materials. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and more muted sound, both switches cater to different tastes in terms of acoustics and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, with the Matcha requiring 40 grams and the Smoothie Silver needing 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Matcha is slightly heavier, requiring 45 grams to fully press the key while the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Matcha may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Smoothie Silver for its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Matcha has a longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie Silver. The Matcha's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance offers a slightly shorter key press, which may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to the preferences of individual users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and usage requirements.
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 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided. Both switches will produce different sound profiles depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, so you can expect a distinct sound experience from each switch.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile feedback that is mild and responsive. It is also described as snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, offering a comfortable and light typing experience with prominent tactility. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided. Both switches will offer different tactile feedback and actuation forces, giving you unique typing experiences with each.
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clacky sound and a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel, promising a comfortable and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switch boasts a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, providing a different typing sensation. Whether you choose the Matcha or the Smoothie Silver, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that will cater to your preferences and enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a light bottom out force, a comfortable and snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, and a switch with a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel, then the Matcha would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a switch with lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, then the Smoothie Silver might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what features matter most to you in a keyboard switch.
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