Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Smoothie Silver. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch known for its durability and resistance to dust and debris. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is a linear switch with a short travel distance, providing quick actuation and a thocky sound. While the Dustproof Purple offers a tactile feedback with a satisfying click, the Smoothie Silver provides smoothness and a feather-light touch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Smoothie Silver offer distinct characteristics that influence the sound profile and overall typing experience of the switches. The Dustproof Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly well-suited for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper, more muted sound. While both materials have their own unique sound qualities, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Dustproof Purple incorporates a nylon material known for generating a deeper and fuller sound. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver uses a POM bottom housing, contributing to a similarly deep and muted sound profile. While both switches share this characteristic, the use of different bottom housing materials allows for a subtle variation in the typing experience and sound produced between the two switches.
When examining the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are distinct yet complementary. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of carefully selecting housing materials to achieve the desired sound profile and typing experience in mechanical switches, showcasing the unique characteristics of the Dustproof Purple and Smoothie Silver.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Purple requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. The Dustproof Purple offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, while the Smoothie Silver may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it can be seen that the Dustproof Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 4mm compared to the Smoothie Silver's 3.4mm. This means that the Dustproof Purple offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those who prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key press depth 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 Dustproof Purple 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 Dustproof Purple clicky switch is known for its sharp clicky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is famous for its thocky sound, which is deep and muted, offering a quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Purple switch offers a tactile and clicky typing experience with a noticeable feedback as you press down on the keys. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch provides a smooth and linear feel, allowing for quick and consistent keystrokes without any tactile bump or audible click. The Dustproof Purple switch may feel more engaging and tactile, while the Smoothie Silver switch offers a smoother and more fluid typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Purple switch is ideal for those who prefer a tactile and clicky typing experience, while the Smoothie Silver switch caters to individuals looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile clicky switch with a satisfying feedback and a distinct sound, then the Dustproof Purple would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light linear switch with a short travel distance, lightning-fast actuation, and a thocky sound, then the Smoothie Silver would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and actuation style.
Mentioned in this article
