KTT Orange vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Orange switch is praised for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile. With its factory-lubed components, users can enjoy a refined and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out for its lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. Choosing between these switches may depend on whether you prioritize a bouncy and low-pitched typing experience (KTT Orange) or a swift actuation with a thocky sound (Gateron Smoothie Silver). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Orange Linear

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, one can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Orange features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. This material is ideal for switches that use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate of the Orange provides a clearer and crisper sound compared to the POM of the Smoothie Silver.

The differences in sound profiles between the KTT Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver can be attributed to the choice of housing materials. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Orange create a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the POM housings of the Smoothie Silver produce a deeper and more muted sound. These differences in material contribute to the overall feel and sound of each switch, offering users a range of options to choose from based on their preference for sound and feel. Despite these variations, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.

Although the housing materials of the KTT Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver differ, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that are distinctly shaped by their respective housing materials. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Orange deliver a sharp and resonant sound, while the POM top and bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver produce a deeper and more muted sound. Whether it be the clearer sound of the Orange or the deeper sound of the Smoothie Silver, users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either switch based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.

Weight

The KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Orange requires 53 grams while the Smoothie Silver's force is unknown. This means that the Orange switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the Smoothie Silver. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Smoothie Silver may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, for users looking for a more substantial typing feel, the Orange switch with its higher bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight sensitivity.

Travel distance

The KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, which is favored by gamers for faster response times. The 0.1 mm difference between the two may not be significant for most users, but those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance may find the KTT Orange switch more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, the sound profiles differ significantly. The Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switch is described as providing a thocky sound, indicating a unique, resonant sound with a satisfying tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Orange switch is praised for its bouncy and frictionless typing experience. With a 22mm long spring, users can expect a spring-like feedback while enjoying a smooth and effortless typing experience due to excellent factory-lubing. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is known for its fast actuation with a short travel distance, providing a feather-light touch. While specifics about the feel of the Smoothie Silver switch are not detailed, it can be assumed that the short travel distance contributes to a responsive and quick typing experience.

In conclusion, the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, ideal for those seeking a smooth and tactile feel. Meanwhile, the Smoothie Silver switch offers a thocky sound and lightning-fast actuation, perfect for users who prioritize quick responses and a light touch. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, both switches can deliver satisfying results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Orange switch offers a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and features a polished design with excellent factory-lubing for a refined key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light touch with lightning-fast actuation and a thocky sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch might be the better option. Although the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unavailable, it offers a unique all-POM construction for unparalleled smoothness. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Orange and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more