Outemu Blue vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Gateron Smoothie Silver offer unique experiences for users. The Outemu Blue is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is a linear switch with a short travel distance, offering lightning-fast actuation and a smooth keystroke experience. Each switch has its own benefits - the Blue for those who enjoy the clicky feel and sound, and the Smoothie Silver for those who prioritize speed and smoothness in typing. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles based on their composition. The Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique typing experience that may appeal to those seeking a quieter option. Both materials have their own advantages, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonance, while POM focuses on creating a pleasing and deep sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Blue's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience by absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing also contributes to a pleasing and deep sound, maintaining a muted quality that complements the top housing material. Despite their differences in composition, both housing materials serve to enhance the sound profile of the switches, providing users with a tactile and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Blue and the Gateron Smoothie Silver ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the Blue's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and resonant sound with a stiffer plastic composition, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing provides a unique and muted typing experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue and the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their individual characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, the actuation force of the Blue switch is slightly heavier at 50 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver switch at 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but they are known for having a smooth keystroke. In terms of weight, the Smoothie Silver switch is lighter, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Blue switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Blue's 4 mm. The Blue switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Smoothie Silver provides a shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more robust feel may opt for the longer travel distance of the Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Blue 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 Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound, making it quite satisfying for those who enjoy the audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is recognized for its thocky sound, which is a deeper and smoother sound compared to the clicky sound of the Blue switch. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, giving users the option to choose based on their preference for sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Blue switch provides a tactile bump and auditory click upon actuation, offering a tactile typing experience that some users find satisfying. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes due to the all-POM material used in its construction. The Smoothie Silver switch provides a feather-light touch with a short travel distance, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless typing experience without any tactile feedback.
Overall, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a loud and satisfying click with tactile feedback, the Blue switch may be a better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch would be a suitable option. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure you get the best typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that provides a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience with a short travel distance, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choosing the one that best fits your typing style and needs is key.
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