Cherry Nixie vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are two popular options worth considering. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is celebrated for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is also a linear switch but stands out for its all-POM construction, short travel distance for quick actuation, thocky sound, smoothness, and feather-light touch. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for various preferences and typing styles. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Smoothie Silver utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing components. The Nixie features a nylon top housing known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing that produces a pleasing and unique deeper sound that is relatively more muted. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the Nixie may provide a duller and rounder sound compared to the Smoothie Silver's deeper and more muted tones.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cherry Nixie once again uses nylon, which contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch by absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver employs a POM bottom housing that also enhances the switch's sound with its deep and relatively muted tones. While both bottom housings may impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the specific qualities brought by each material may differ, providing a unique typing experience for users of each switch.
Overall, despite the differences in housing materials between the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both switches aim to deliver an enhanced typing experience through their unique sound profiles. While the Nixie's nylon housing may offer a softer and fuller sound, the Smoothie Silver's POM housing provides a pleasing and more muted tone. Regardless of the differences, users of both switches can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics that cater to individual preferences in sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Nixie is a heavier switch compared to the Smoothie Silver. The Cherry Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating a significant amount of force required to both initiate and complete a keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. This suggests that the Smoothie Silver offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Nixie. For those who prefer a lighter touch and may need to type for longer periods, the Smoothie Silver may be the preferable option. However, for users who value a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Nixie would be the better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force, with the Nixie being the heavier option and the Smoothie Silver offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Nixie's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is described as having a thocky sound as well, but with no specific descriptors provided. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry Nixie is praised for its textured typing experience, offering a tactile feedback that some users appreciate for its friction when pressed. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver's feel is not specified, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of texture and feedback.
In conclusion, while both the Cherry Nixie and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel, the specifics of the Smoothie Silver remain relatively unknown. If you enjoy a thocky sound with low-pitched notes and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the preferred choice. However, if you're looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance and feather-light touch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver could potentially provide a similar experience. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavier switch with a substantial heft and textured feel, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with lightning-fast actuation and a thocky sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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