Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Outemu dustproof green and the Gateron smoothie silver. The dustproof green is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click with every key press. On the other hand, the smoothie silver is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. The dustproof green is categorized as clicky, while the smoothie silver is recognized for its lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, smoothness, and feather-light touch. Both switches have their own unique advantages and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 terms of housing materials, the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Gateron Smoothie Silver offer different options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. This material is particularly popular for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver comes with a POM top housing, providing a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Dustproof Green leans towards a crisper sound, while the POM of the Smoothie Silver offers a deeper tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Dustproof Green utilizes a nylon housing for a fuller and deeper sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to its pleasing sound profile that is deep and muted. Both options bring their own unique qualities to the overall sound of the switch, with the nylon of the Dustproof Green offering a different typing experience compared to the POM of the Smoothie Silver.
In summary, while the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Gateron Smoothie Silver have different housing materials for their top and bottom parts, both switches offer distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Green creates a sharper, crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver produces a deeper, more muted tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Green results in a fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver contributes to its unique sound experience. Overall, both switches provide a diverse range of sound options for keyboard enthusiasts to explore.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch. The Dustproof Green requires 65 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 80 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver only needs 45 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, with the bottom out force being unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Smoothie Silver makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier forces of the Dustproof Green cater to users who prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Despite the differences in force, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring users will get similar results based on their individual needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has the shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Green. The Dustproof Green offers a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm, providing a deeper key press sensation, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Green clicky switch is known for producing a crisp and satisfying click with each keystroke, providing that classic mechanical keyboard sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a unique thocky sound that is softer and less pronounced compared to clicky switches. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, so the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Green clicky switch is known for providing tactile feedback with each key press, giving typists a sense of confirmation with every stroke. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, allowing for quick and quiet typing. The difference in feel between these two switches is significant, with the Dustproof Green offering a more tactile typing experience while the Smoothie Silver provides a smoother and more linear feel.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Dustproof Green switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth keystrokes, the Smoothie Silver switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a heavy actuation force of 80 grams and a clicky sound, the Dustproof Green may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight actuation force, smooth linear action, and a thocky sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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