Outemu Gold vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch. The Outemu Gold switch is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience with audible feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is renowned for its smoothness and thocky sound signature, providing a quieter and more buttery typing experience. While the Outemu Gold switch offers a classic clicky feel, the Gateron Smoothie excels in providing a silky and subdued typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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 Gold's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a unique combination of sharp, higher-pitched sound profiles due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, and a deeper, fuller sound profile from the softer nylon. This results in a switch that provides a variety of tones and textures as you type. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie's POM top and bottom housing both contribute to a deeper, more muted sound profile overall. While both switches aim for a pleasing sound experience, the Outemu Gold's mix of polycarbonate and nylon creates a more dynamic range of sounds.
However, both the Outemu Gold and the Gateron Smoothie share similarities in that they both utilize materials known for producing pleasing and unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate and POM housings used in both switches contribute to their distinctive sound characteristics, whether it be the sharp and crisp sound of the Gold or the deep and relatively muted sound of the Smoothie. The translucent nature of the polycarbonate top housing in the Gold also allows for RGB lighting effects to enhance the overall aesthetic of the switch, a feature not found in the Smoothie. Overall, while there are differences in the materials used, both switches prioritize providing an enjoyable typing experience through their housing materials.
In terms of feel and sound distribution, the differences in top and bottom housing materials in the Outemu Gold and the Gateron Smoothie will result in varying tactile experiences. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with the softer nylon in the Gold producing a duller and rounder sound compared to the more muted sound of the POM in the Smoothie. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate in the Gold creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the deeper sound produced by the POM in the Smoothie. These nuances in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold switch is 60 grams, while the bottom out force for the Smoothie switch is unknown. This means that the Gold switch requires a slightly heavier touch to activate a keypress and also requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the Smoothie switch. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gateron Smoothie switch more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Gold switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Gold switch being on the longer side and the Smoothie switch being on the shorter side. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Outemu Gold clicky switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch is known for providing a unique sound experience that is not easily described based on the available information. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is well-known for its thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound profile. The Smoothie offers a deep and satisfying thud-like sound, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is more subtle compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Gold switch lacks a specific descriptor for its typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and uniform typing experience. Meanwhile, a creamy switch offers a silky sensation, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The silky switch enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance during typing, ensuring a comfortable typing feel.
Overall, for those seeking a unique sound experience with the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the specific sound profile may need to be explored through hands-on testing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is praised for its thocky sound and buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel. Both switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between the two switches, as individual tastes in sound and typing experience vary.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a clicky sound, the Outemu Gold switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no bottom out force and a smooth, thocky sound signature, the Gateron Smoothie switch could be the perfect fit. Consider how you like your switches to sound and feel when making your decision, and remember that both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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