Outemu Peach (V3) vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach (V3) 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 Peach and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Peach is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its lightweight and silenced nature, providing a gentle typing experience for those who prefer linear switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is also a linear switch, but it stands out for its all-POM construction, short travel distance, thocky sound, smoothness, and feather-light touch. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Peach and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Peach utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing that produces a more unique and pleasing sound with deeper tones and a relatively more muted profile. Despite these differences, both housing materials offer a similar level of sound customization that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Peach and the Smoothie Silver share a nylon material for this component. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and sound experience. While the Smoothie Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, the overall sound profile may vary slightly due to the unique characteristics of the POM top housing in this switch.
In terms of overall impact on sound and feel, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing the key. Therefore, the choice between nylon and POM housing materials in the Outemu Peach and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches will ultimately determine the depth, tone, and overall sound profile of each keystroke. Despite these differences, both switches offer a customizable and enjoyable typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Peach linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Peach requires 50 grams while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Peach, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver may appeal to individuals who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Peach linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. The Peach has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Smoothie Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches cater to users who prefer a quicker response time with their keys, making them popular choices among gamers. However, the minimal difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant enough to notice a substantial difference in feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and depth of the keystrokes.
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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 Peach linear switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike. This switch provides a softer and quieter typing experience, ideal for shared spaces or quiet environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound, which is characterized by a deep and satisfying tone. This unique sound profile, combined with unparalleled smoothness, enhances the typing experience and provides a distinct auditory feedback for users. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Peach linear switch provides a mild and subtle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. With its gentle resistance and polished finish, this switch offers a smooth and refined key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The lightweight nature of the Peach switch contributes to a feathery light touch, making it suitable for users who prefer a light typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is not available.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Peach switch is praised for its lightness, muted sound, and gentle typing feel, the Smoothie Silver switch stands out for its lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, and unparalleled smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and key feel. However, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience for users seeking a high-quality linear switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a feather-light typing experience with a silent operation, the Outemu Peach switch with its 50-gram bottom out force may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you value lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, and unparalleled smoothness, the Gateron Smoothie Silver may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lightweight typing feel or a fast actuation with a unique sound profile. Choose wisely based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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