KTT Miaowu vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both offer unique qualities to consider. The Miaowu switch from KTT stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem, setting it apart from switches with conventional POM stems. Known for its 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' feel, the Miaowu switch provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is celebrated for its lightning-fast actuation due to its all-POM construction and short travel distance. With a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver offers a different typing experience compared to the Miaowu. 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
2.00 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top housing. The Miaowu boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is particularly ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu is likely to provide a clearer and resonant sound compared to the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Miaowu sports a nylon material while the Smoothie Silver uses POM. Nylon is recognized for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softness that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, POM is also known to produce a pleasing and deep sound profile, albeit with a more muted quality. Despite differences in the specific sound profiles each material provides, both the Miaowu and Smoothie Silver housing materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Ultimately, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in dictating the sound profile and feel of the switch. With the Miaowu's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, users can expect a sharp, clear sound on keypress with a deeper and fuller sound on bottom-out. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie Silver's use of POM for both top and bottom housings results in a relatively deeper and more muted sound throughout the typing experience. Despite the differences in materials, both switches are designed to offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch with 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Miaowu requires 50 grams while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Miaowu switch may appeal to users looking for a smoother typing experience that requires less force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the slightly heavier actuation force of the Smoothie Silver switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, and both switches will provide similar results in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch does not have a described sound quality, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Miaowu linear switch is noted for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation when typing. This feature gives the keys a lively feel and a rebound effect upon pressing. As for the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there is no specific description provided for its feel. Without this information, it is challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the Miaowu linear switch stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch boasts lightning-fast actuation due to its short travel distance, along with a thocky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a light touch. Despite the differences in sound and feel described, it is essential to remember that individual preferences play a significant role when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Therefore, it may be beneficial to try out both switches firsthand to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Additionally, keep in mind that the sound and feel of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout, keycap material, and typing technique.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences and keyboard usage. If you prioritize a smoother keystroke action and stem stability, the Miaowu may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a bouncy and lively feel when typing, the Miaowu switch's POK stem may offer a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light touch and lightning-fast actuation, the Smoothie Silver switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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