Cherry MX Orange vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves caught between the versatile Cherry MX Orange and the rapid-fire Gateron Smoothie Silver. The Cherry MX Orange, celebrated for its historical roots and reissued enhancements, offers a well-balanced typing experience with its linear characteristics that cater to both gamers and typists. Its tactile feel provides a satisfying response while maintaining a quiet operation, making it an attractive choice for those who value a blend of performance and subtlety. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out with its ultra-short travel distance and feather-light touch, designed for lightning-fast actuation. This makes it particularly appealing for gamers seeking speed and responsiveness, all while delivering a unique "thocky" sound profile that adds character to each keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches have their distinct advantages, they cater to different user preferences and priorities. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches exhibit notable differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The MX Orange features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its relatively soft texture that absorbs sound effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, accentuating a duller and rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) top and bottom housing, which presents a contrasting aesthetic. POM is celebrated for producing a distinct and unique sound profile that is also deep but notably more muted compared to the MX Orange. While both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience, the materials' inherent characteristics lead to differing sound outcomes when using each switch.
Upon further examination of the bottom housings, it is evident that both switches employ materials that contribute in different ways to their typing experiences. The MX Orange's nylon bottom housing similarly offers a deeper sound profile with a plush feel, further enhancing the overall typing experience by absorbing vibrations and sound effectively. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing maintains the muted and pleasing sound, adding a unique character to the feel of the switch. While both nylon and POM exhibit soft properties that influence the switch's auditory feedback, the distinct material differences result in varying levels of depth and resonance when bottoming out.
In conclusion, despite the Cherry MX Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches using different housing materials, they share similarities in their capacity to produce deep sound profiles when typing. The nylon housing of the MX Orange leads to a fuller and rounder sound, while the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver delivers a unique yet muted auditory experience. Both switches allow users to enjoy a satisfying typing sensation, but their sound profiles are distinctly shaped by the materials used in their construction. If one were to seek similar results in sound experience, using either of these switches would provide enjoyment, albeit with subtle differences in the character of the sound produced.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation forces. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, making it the heavier option, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that typists and gamers who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Cherry MX Orange due to its higher resistance, whereas those who enjoy a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might favor the Smoothie Silver. Both switches have an unspecified bottom out force, so we cannot make any direct comparisons in that regard. However, the difference in actuation force suggests that while both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, the MX Orange will appeal to users seeking a firmer push, whereas the Smoothie Silver will attract those looking for ease of use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Cherry MX Orange features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional depth and offers a heartier feel for those who appreciate a deeper key press. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to the growing preference for quicker response times, particularly among gamers. This shorter distance may provide a more responsive typing experience; however, some users might find it feels too abrupt. Ultimately, if you prioritize depth and a more substantial keypress, the Cherry MX Orange is the better choice, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver is optimal for those seeking speed and agility in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Cherry MX Orange switch typically offers a subtle acoustic profile that fits well within the realm of linear switches, producing a sound that is not overly loud while still delivering a satisfying feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is known for its "thocky" sound, which adds a unique auditory character. This thockiness can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a deeper, richer sound, making it resonate differently on a board compared to the more muted tones of the MX Orange. However, the final acoustic output of either switch is significantly influenced by the choice of keyboard plate and keycap materials, so personal preferences will vary based on overall setup.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch combines a smooth linear action with a satisfying push, thanks to the careful engineering that revitalized the original MX Orange design. This ensures consistent performance throughout the keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a reliable and even response. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is praised for its unparalleled smoothness, featuring a feather-light touch that makes for quick actuation with minimal effort. This can be particularly advantageous for gamers who require rapid key presses, providing a distinct contrast to the MX Orange's more balanced feel.
In conclusion, both switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange delivers a more traditional linear feel with a discreet sound profile, making it ideal for those who favor a classic typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie Silver caters to those seeking speed and an engaging auditory experience with its thocky sound and smooth action. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a balanced and reliable feel or a quick response with enhanced sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches, your choice largely depends on your specific typing style and preferences. If you appreciate a traditional feel and want a switch that provides reliable actuation while still being relatively quiet, the Cherry MX Orange might be the better option for you. This switch carries the legacy of the original MX Orange, enhanced for modern use, making it suitable for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions without drawing attention to itself. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and smoothness in your typing experience, and a light touch is essential for your performance, then the Gateron Smoothie Silver could be your go-to. With its short travel distance and thocky sound, it caters well to gamers and typists who enjoy rapid keystrokes and responsiveness. Ultimately, consider what aspects – whether it's the tactile feedback, actuation speed, or sound profile – resonate most with your personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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