Bsun Olive vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Bsun Olive and the Gateron Smoothie. The Bsun Olive is a tactile switch that is best known for its all-POM housings and resonant, deep sound that sets it apart from other switches. It offers pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp bottom-out, making typing on it a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch that boasts an all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness. It offers a lightweight touch that is buttery and creamy. While the Olive is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Smoothie is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Olive and Gateron Smoothie depends on your preference for tactile feedback or smoothness, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and Gateron Smoothie switches are both made of POM, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. This results in a smooth typing experience with a satisfying sound feedback for both switches. With the same housing material, users can expect similar performance in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience.
While both switches share the same POM material for their top and bottom housings, the impact of each housing material differs in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these nuances, both the Bsun Olive and Gateron Smoothie switches provide a consistent and enjoyable typing experience due to their shared POM housing material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Olive and Gateron Smoothie switches contribute to a high-quality typing experience with a satisfying sound profile. The POM material used in both switches creates a unique sound that is deep and muted, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the impact of the top and bottom housings may vary slightly in terms of sound and feel, users can expect consistent performance and reliability from both switches due to their shared POM housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Olive switch is heavier than the Smoothie switch. The Olive switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly higher than the Smoothie switch's 40 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Olive switch is 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie switch is unknown. The heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Olive switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Smoothie switch with its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is an important factor to consider based on individual preferences for typing comfort and key press responsiveness.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances commonly preferred by gamers for quicker response times. The Olive switch is slightly shorter, offering a more responsive feel, while the Smoothie switch provides a slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the only notable difference being the 0.2 mm variance between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Bsun Olive tactile switch produces a resonant and deep sound due to its all-POM housings, giving it a unique and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound signature, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Olive offering a deep and sharp click while the Smoothie delivers a smoother and more subdued sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive switch is characterized by its pronounced tactile feedback, creating a tactile typing sensation with a sharp bottom-out. The medium-weight Olive switch offers an invigorating and snappy feel, thanks to its unique design and long pole stem. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and uniform sensation with reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Olive being more accentuated and sharp, while the Smoothie focuses on a smoother and more fluid keystroke.
In conclusion, the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Olive switch provides a deep and resonant sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the Smoothie switch offers a thocky and smooth sound signature with a buttery typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to customize their mechanical keyboard typing experience accordingly. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and cater to different tastes in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a unique tactile experience and a satisfying sound, the Bsun Olive tactile switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and pronounced tactile feedback would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a thocky sound signature, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch made of all-POM material would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Olive and the Smoothie comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound versus smoothness and lightness in typing. Choose wisely based on your typing needs and preferences.
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