Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and the intended use case. The Cherry MX Speed Silver is a standout option for gamers, renowned for its rapid response and low spring resistance that ensures swift actuation with every keystroke. This switch's textured, thocky feedback and low-pitched sound create an engaging typing experience while offering gamers the competitive edge they crave. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie emerges as a fantastic choice for users seeking a blend of affordability, exceptional smoothness, and a satisfying thocky sound profile. Made from durable POM materials, this medium-weight switch delivers a reliable performance without breaking the bank. While both switches cater to linear preferences, their distinct characteristics can influence your typing or gaming experience significantly. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, the differences in their housing materials—nylon for the former and POM (Polyoxymethylene) for the latter—highlight distinct acoustic characteristics. The nylon housing of the MX Speed Silver is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer composition, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced when typing on these switches tends to be duller and rounder, providing a more muted auditory experience, especially upon bottoming out. This characteristic is ideal for users seeking a subdued sound while maintaining a lively typing sensation.
In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie's POM housing contributes to a sound profile that is both pleasing and unique. While also leaning towards a deeper sound, the POM material produces a slightly different auditory quality, described as more muted yet not lacking in clarity. This unique sound is the result of the properties of POM, which, although relatively harder than nylon, still manages to create an appealing acoustic experience. Consequently, while both switches deliver lower frequencies, the character of the sound differs; the MX Speed Silver offers a rounder tone, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a unique tonal balance distinct to the POM material.
Despite their contrasting materials, both the MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie exhibit sound profiles that are deeper and relatively muted when compared to switches made from harder plastics. However, the experience of typing on each switch will vary due to the specific qualities each housing material imparts. For instance, while the nylon of the Cherry MX Speed Silver enhances the bottom-out feel with its softness, contributing to that fuller sound, the POM of the Sea Salt Smoothie will produce a sound that has a unique texture and elegance. Users seeking similar auditory results will find enjoyment in both switches, albeit with a distinction in the subtleties of sound and feel, showcasing how different materials can yield varying yet satisfying experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation forces. The MX Speed Silver features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Cherry MX Speed Silver is the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate. However, both switches lack defined bottom out force ratings, so we cannot draw comparisons in that aspect. For users preferring a tactile experience with a stronger push feel, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, with its heavier actuation force, might be the preferable choice. Overall, while both switches provide smooth action, the Cherry MX Speed Silver leans towards a lighter touch, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The MX Speed Silver features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it more suitable for gamers who favor quicker response times. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which may provide a more robust and satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate a deeper keypress. While both switches aim for efficient performance, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference: if you're looking for faster actuation, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is the better option, whereas the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie caters to those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more cushioned feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Gateron Sea Salt 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 Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched quality. This results in a deeper, more resonant sound when a key is pressed, evoking a satisfying thud that many users find appealing, particularly for gaming environments where auditory feedback can enhance the experience. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch lacks a specific sound description available, but its construction as an all-POM medium-weight switch suggests a potentially distinct auditory character that aligns with Gateron's reputation for smoother operation. Ultimately, while the Speed Silver offers a rich auditory experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie's sound remains an unknown until further details are provided.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured sensation, which introduces a level of friction during key presses. For some users, this texture can be engaging and provide tactile feedback, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. In comparison, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie does not have a specific feel descriptor available at this moment. However, given its designation as a smooth switch, it may offer a more polished and friction-free experience, contrasting with the textural elements found in the Speed Silver.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch stands out for its thocky sound and textured feel, making it a preferred option for gamers seeking rapid response and tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers an unknown sound quality but promises premium smoothness at a competitive price point. If you seek a quicker, more textured switch experience, the Speed Silver could be your go-to, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie is worth exploring for those aiming for smoothness and build quality. Regardless, each switch type offers unique benefits that cater to varying preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie will largely depend on your primary use case and personal preferences. If you are an avid gamer who values speed and performance above all else, the MX Speed Silver is undoubtedly the right choice; its rapid response and full-height linear action allow for lightning-fast actuation, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced environments. Additionally, the thocky and low-pitched sound profile may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper audio feedback while gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a more versatile switch for everyday typing and a smooth tactile experience without excessive noise, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is an excellent option. It's designed for users who appreciate a softer typing feel and solid build quality at a more accessible price point. By evaluating your needs for speed versus a more laid-back typing experience, you can confidently select the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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