Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green 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 Outemu Dustproof Green and the Gateron Smoothie. The Dustproof Green is a clicky switch known for its precise tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch that offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a thocky sound profile. While the Dustproof Green is ideal for those who prefer a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Gateron Smoothie is perfect for users looking for a more subtle and smooth keystroke. 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
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
The Outemu Dustproof Green and Gateron Smoothie switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Smoothie's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer and provides a clearer and more resonant sound, the Smoothie's POM top housing offers a softer and more muffled sound. Despite these differences, both materials are known for their aesthetically pleasing qualities, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to their translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Dustproof Green utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Smoothie's POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. While the bottom housing material may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, the top housing material is more influential on the sound when a key is released. This distinction showcases how the different housing materials in each switch can affect the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Green and Gateron Smoothie switches have differences in their housing materials, they both offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of the Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and more muted sound of the Smoothie's POM housing, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the usage of nylon and POM in the bottom housings further enhances the distinct sound profiles of each switch. In conclusion, while the housing materials may vary, users can expect similar results in terms of overall sound quality and typing feel from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see a significant difference in weight. The Dustproof Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. The Dustproof Green offers a heavier overall typing experience, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a stronger push feel or want to avoid accidental keystrokes. On the other hand, the Smoothie's lighter actuation force may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing weight and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. With a 0.4 mm difference, the Dustproof Green offers slightly more depth in travel distance. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Smoothie, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the 4 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Green. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's specific needs and preferences for keypress depth.
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 Dustproof Green 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is best known for its unique clicky sound that provides auditory feedback with each press, making it a popular choice among those who enjoy a crisp and pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a thocky sound signature that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with low-pitched and subdued tones that create a more mellow and bass-heavy typing sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, although the Dustproof Green is more focused on a clicky feedback while the Smoothie provides a smoother and quieter typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch's tactile feedback is known for providing a satisfying bump and resistance during each keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel while typing. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that minimizes resistance and provides a uniform typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile feelings that cater to different preferences, with the Dustproof Green emphasizing a tactile bump and the Smoothie focusing on a smooth and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Dustproof Green provides a clicky sound and tactile bump for a more pronounced typing experience, the Smoothie offers a thocky sound and buttery, creamy, and silky feel for a smoother and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches are designed to provide high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results based on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound for a more tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Green may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch could be more suitable. Consider the feel and sound you prefer in a keyboard switch to make the best decision for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
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