Outemu Black vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Gateron Smoothie are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is also a linear switch but stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness without breaking the bank. The Black switch offers a reliable and consistent typing experience, while the Smoothie switch provides a unique tactile feel and sound profile. 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
65g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Outemu Black and the Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Black's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Smoothie's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both housings are known for their clarity and resonance, with polycarbonate being ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While the Black's nylon bottom housing results in a fuller sound profile, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also contributes to its unique and pleasing sound, albeit on the deeper end of the spectrum.
In terms of materials used for the top and bottom housings, the Outemu Black and Gateron Smoothie differ slightly. The Black features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Smoothie boasts a POM material for both the top and bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Black offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM housing contributes to a unique and pleasing sound experience, focusing on the deeper tones and maintaining a relatively more muted profile overall.
While the housing materials of the Outemu Black and Gateron Smoothie may differ, both switches offer high-quality sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Black's polycarbonate housing or the deeper and more muted sound of the Smoothie's POM housing, both switches offer exceptional quality and performance in their own right.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch boasts a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Outemu Black is also heavier at 82 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Smoothie due to its lower actuation force, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may appreciate the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Outemu Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Smoothie the shorter option in terms of travel distance. The Black, being slightly longer, may provide a bit more depth to each keystroke. Gamers looking for a faster response time might lean towards the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie, while those who prefer a more pronounced and deliberate feel to their key presses might prefer the Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience the user is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for its lack of distinct characteristics, providing a more generic sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is praised for its thocky sound signature, low-pitched tones, and subdued sound that offers a more pleasing and satisfying auditory experience. The Smoothie's unique properties make it stand out in terms of sound quality, especially for users who enjoy a deeper and quieter keystroke sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific descriptors, which typically indicates a more standard typing experience without any particular standout characteristics. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that enhances the overall typing sensation. The lubricated feel of the Smoothie switch, along with its uniform and effortless typing sensation, sets it apart in terms of tactile feedback and keypress consistency.
Overall, while the Outemu Black linear switch may provide a basic and unremarkable sound and feel, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a more premium experience with its thocky sound signature and buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, but opting for the Gateron Smoothie switch would likely result in a more satisfying and enjoyable typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your preference for a heavier actuation force and a more pronounced sound with the Outemu Black switch. This switch is best known for its weightier feel and potentially louder sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, a thocky sound signature, and remarkable smoothness, the Gateron Smoothie may be the better choice for you. This switch is all-POM, offering a lightweight touch and a unique typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
Mentioned in this article
