Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the decision between Cherry MX Purple RGB and Gateron Smoothie Silver often sparks passionate debates among enthusiasts. The Cherry MX Purple, a tactile switch, is designed to provide a refined tactile experience characterized by a short, medium-strength bump, developed in collaboration with keyboard expert Glarses. This makes it a compelling choice for those who appreciate feedback during typing, offering a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver shines as a linear switch that boasts an all-POM construction, delivering a remarkably quick actuation with its short travel distance and a thocky, buttery sound profile. Ideal for gamers and fast typists, its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch make it a top pick for those who prioritize speed and silence. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to different preferences—whether you favor tactile feedback or a sleek, linear 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
45g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches, we see that both utilize different plastics for their top and bottom housings. The MX Purple RGB features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its softer texture. This softness allows nylon to effectively absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that many typists find appealing. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) material for both the top and bottom housings, which offers a unique sound quality. POM is noted for producing a muted, yet pleasingly deep sound, contributing to a different auditory experience during typing. Thus, while both switches aim for a deep sound, the prominence and texture of that sound are informed by their distinct housing materials.
The implications of using nylon versus POM extend beyond just auditory experiences to tactile feedback as well. With the MX Purple RGB's nylon housing, the softer material may offer a slightly cushioned feeling when bottoming out, enhancing the typing experience with a plush feel. Conversely, the POM housing in the Smoothie Silver could provide a more definitive tactile experience due to its higher density, which might be perceived as more snappy or responsive compared to the softer nylon. However, both switched designs leverage their unique housing materials to define the sonic profile of the switch, with nylon fostering a more rounded sound and POM emphasizing a unique, but similarly muted timbre.
Ultimately, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches serve to provide a satisfying typing experience, though their intricacies stem from their differing material compositions. Although their sound profiles differ—nylon's deeper and fuller quality versus POM's unique muted character—the user may still achieve a rewarding typing outcome with either switch depending on personal preference. The impact of each type of housing is more pronounced under specific scenarios; while users will perceive different auditory experiences, both switches still deliver a fulfilling tactile feedback experience informed by their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we notice that both switches share an identical actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect a similar effort when triggering a keystroke on both switches, making them equally suitable for individuals who prefer a consistent typing experience. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, which prevents a direct comparison on how they feel when pressed all the way down. As for weight, since both switches have the same actuation force, neither can be definitively labeled as lighter or heavier based on the available specifications. Ultimately, both options cater to users seeking a moderate force for extended typing sessions or gaming, although personal preference regarding tactile feedback may still influence individual choices.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, the Cherry MX Purple boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver measures at 3.4 mm. This difference of 0.6 mm positions the Smoothie Silver as the shorter option, making it more appealing for gamers who favor quicker key actuation for enhanced responsiveness. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple, with its greater travel distance, may offer a more substantial feel for users who prefer a deeper keypress, providing a tactile experience that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for either a rapid response or a more pronounced keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Purple RGB offers a refined auditory experience that is generally characterized as being well-balanced, though specific descriptions are not revealed here. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is widely appreciated for its thocky sound, which features a deep and rich tonal quality, reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" or "knock." It produces a low-pitched output that feels mellow and bass-heavy, giving it a more subdued sound that strikes a good balance between being audible without being overly distracting. This makes the Smoothie Silver a great option for typing in shared spaces where you want to minimize noise while still enjoying a pleasing sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is known to provide a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump that enhances typing feedback, making it enjoyable for both typing and gaming. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie Silver impresses with an exceptionally smooth and buttery keystroke that is effortlessly fluid, thanks to its unique design and POM construction. This creamy feel results in a typing sensation where fingers glide over the keys with minimal resistance, offering a seamless experience. The differentiation in tactile feedback can influence preferences based on whether one prefers the tactile bump of the Purple switch or the smoothness of the Smoothie Silver.
In summary, choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gateron Smoothie Silver largely comes down to personal preference in auditory and tactile experiences. The MX Purple RGB offers a balanced sound profile and a tactile bump that many find satisfying. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver provides a thocky sound and an exceptionally smooth feel that caters to those who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes. Both switches offer unique advantages, so it ultimately depends on whether one values a tactile experience or seeks unparalleled smoothness in their typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you're looking for. If you appreciate tactile feedback while typing and enjoy a satisfying bump that confirms your keystroke, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is likely the better choice for you. This switch offers a refined tactile experience that strikes a balance between responsive feedback and a smooth actuation feel, making it ideal for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you're aiming for speed and smoothness, with a focus on quick actuation and minimal resistance, the Gateron Smoothie Silver showcases its advantages. Known for providing a buttery and creamy feel, this switch is particularly favored by gamers who want to execute rapid keystrokes without interruption, backed by its thocky sound that adds a pleasing auditory dimension to your typing or gameplay. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the tactile delight of the MX Purple RGB or the fluidity of the Smoothie Silver, both switches cater to different styles, ensuring you’ll find satisfaction in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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