Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that offers a slightly heftier feel compared to the MX Red, but with the added benefit of operating silently. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is an all-POM linear switch that provides a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, all at a more affordable price point. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and requirements. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 Silent Red and Gateron Smoothie switches both utilize different housing materials to enhance the typing experience. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie uses a POM top housing that produces a unique, deep, and relatively muted sound. While both materials aim to provide a pleasing typing experience, the MX Silent Red's nylon top housing may offer a slightly rounder sound compared to the Smoothie's POM top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the top housing. This soft plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie incorporates a POM bottom housing, which also creates a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. While the materials used in the bottom housing of both switches share some similarities in sound profile, they may differ slightly in texture and impact on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Cherry MX Silent Red and Gateron Smoothie switches play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each keystroke. While both switches offer a deep and unique typing experience, the choice between nylon and POM housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a slightly rounder sound profile from the MX Silent Red's nylon housing or the deeper and more muted sound from the Smoothie's POM housing, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that highlights the importance of quality housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the MX Silent Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 40 grams needed for the Smoothie. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but considering the actuation force, it can be assumed that the MX Silent Red may offer a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required for keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie's lighter actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches are relatively short in terms of travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie for faster response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Cherry MX Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, given the minimal difference in travel distance between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The Gateron Smoothie 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 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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, providing a quieter alternative to the traditional mechanical keyboard switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying typing sound with a more subdued tone. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant sound experience, with the MX Silent Red focusing on minimizing noise in noise-sensitive environments, while the Gateron Smoothie delivers a thocky and smooth sound signature that is pleasing to the ears.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is characterized by a textured feel, providing a slight friction during key presses that some users may prefer for added tactile feedback. On the contrary, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal resistance. The Gateron Smoothie switch excels in providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation, making it a popular choice for users seeking a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Gateron Smoothie switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience with a textured feel, the Gateron Smoothie delivers a thocky sound profile and a buttery-smooth typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should take into account your priorities for sound and feel. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the MX Silent Red is a great choice with its muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a thocky sound signature, the Gateron Smoothie with its buttery, creamy, and silky feel may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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