Cherry MX Red vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, especially when comparing two notable linear switches: the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver. The Cherry MX Red is celebrated for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, which delivers a robust typing experience that balances responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Its 'thocky' and low-pitched nature makes it a favorite among gamers and typists seeking a reliable and textured response. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out with its all-POM construction, offering incredibly smooth keystrokes and a feather-light touch, ideal for users who prioritize speedy actuation and seamless performance. While both switches cater to different aspects of typing enjoyment—one emphasizing a rich auditory experience and the other prioritizing quick responsiveness—it's essential to consider your specific needs and typing style. 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
The Cherry MX Red and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches showcase distinct housing materials that influence their overall sound profiles. The MX Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is renowned for its ability to absorb sound effectively due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper, fuller auditory experience that is characterized by a pronounced yet muted sound. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) material for both its top and bottom housing. While POM is also recognized for producing a satisfying sound, it offers a slightly different acoustic quality that leans towards a unique, deeper tone. Thus, although both switches yield enjoyable auditory results, the fundamental differences in housing materials lead to subtly different sound outputs, with nylon creating a rounder sound compared to the radically pleasing effects of POM.
In examining the tactile sensations that accompany each switch, the impact of the housing materials becomes even more pronounced. The MX Red provides a softer typing experience attributed to its nylon construction, which permits a greater degree of sound absorption and consequently enhances the overall typing feel. While the Gateron Smoothie Silver's POM material is also engineered to deliver a satisfying typing experience, the characteristics of POM can result in a somewhat sharper feedback during key presses. This divergence not only affects the auditory output but also influences how users perceive their typing experience, with nylon offering a more cushioned feel in contrast to the nuanced feedback provided by POM.
Ultimately, while both the Cherry MX Red and Gateron Smoothie Silver utilize different materials for their housings, the contributions of each will manifest in their respective sound and feel during usage. The nylon and POM materials, although distinct, share the commonality of producing deeper sound profiles that engage users. When typing, both switches will produce sound profiles that appeal to users seeking a more muted experience; however, the MX Red's nylon will lend a roundness while the Smoothie Silver will provide a unique clarity. Users can expect a similar rewarding satisfaction from both switches, albeit through different sensory pathways shaped by their respective material properties.
Weight
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for both switches remains unknown, complicating direct comparisons regarding the overall feel when bottoming out. Since both switches exhibit the same actuation force, users can expect similar performance when transitioning between them. Without specific bottom out force data, it's difficult to determine which switch may feel heavier or lighter when fully pressed down. Overall, those who enjoy a lighter actuation force for long periods may appreciate either option, but further information on the bottom out force would be necessary to make a more nuanced comparison.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The MX Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. For those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience, the Gateron Smoothie Silver may be the preferred choice due to its shorter actuation distance, allowing for quicker key presses. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red offers a more traditional and deeper travel distance, which can provide a satisfying feel for users who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a more responsive switch, the shorter travel of the Smoothie Silver will yield results that cater to that preference, while the MX Red will appeal to those who appreciate the depth of movement in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Red switches deliver a distinctly thocky and low-pitched auditory experience. This beefy profile provides a satisfying depth with every press, reminiscent of a soft thud or knock, which many users find appealing as it enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches remain silent in terms of their sound profile, suggesting that they may not produce as pronounced auditory feedback as the MX Red. However, it's essential to recognize that the sound can vary significantly depending on factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the MX Red switches exhibit a textured sensation, offering a slight friction that can provide tactile feedback during use. This texture can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a bit of resistance beneath their fingers. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches are designed for unparalleled smoothness, resulting in a feather-light touch that allows for rapid actuation. This difference means that while the MX Red cater to enthusiasts who enjoy a bit of tactile engagement, the Smoothie Silvers aim for users seeking speed and fluidity in their keystrokes.
In summary, Cherry MX Red switches present a solid option for those looking for a deeper sound and a textured feel, perfect for a balanced typing experience that rewards both responsiveness and auditory satisfaction. Conversely, Gateron Smoothie Silver switches offer a smooth and swift actuation without an elaborated sound profile, making them ideal for users who prioritize speed over tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, both of which offer distinct advantages catering to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a more classic typing experience characterized by a slightly heftier feel and a satisfying thocky sound with some depth, the Cherry MX Red may be the better choice for you. This makes it particularly appealing for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing or gaming, as the deeper sound profile adds a layer of dynamism to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and smoothness, and prefer a lighter touch along with rapid actuation, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is likely to be more suited to your needs. This switch excels in scenarios where quick responses are vital, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing sessions where sheer performance is key. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you balance the desire for a textured auditory experience versus the need for swift and silky-smooth action in your keyboard interactions.
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