Outemu Red vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a linear typing experience, making them ideal choices for gamers and typists seeking consistent keystrokes. The Outemu Red switch is known for its reliable performance, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out for its lightning-fast actuation due to its all-POM construction. The Smoothie Silver also boasts a unique thocky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a feather-light touch that sets it apart from other linear switches. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 housing materials of the Outemu Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver differ in terms of their top housing materials. The Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. Moreover, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switch. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver has a POM top housing that produces a more pleasing and deeper sound profile that is relatively muted compared to polycarbonate. Both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, but they offer distinct tonal qualities.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, the Outemu Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Gateron Smoothie Silver also features a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both nylon and POM offer unique tonal characteristics that impact the overall typing experience on these switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Red and the Gateron Smoothie Silver differ, each contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches in their own way. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it can be seen that both switches have a relatively light actuation force. The Outemu Red has an actuation force of 46 grams, slightly heavier than the Gateron Smoothie Silver's 45 grams. However, the Outemu Red requires a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie Silver is unknown. This means that the Outemu Red provides a more consistent typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver offers a lighter overall typing experience, which may be suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver can provide a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Red may feel more substantial and provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and desired typing feel. Both switches offer different benefits, so it is important to consider what factors are most important to you when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
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 Red 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
The Outemu Red linear switch is known for offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible click, making it a popular choice for gamers who want a quieter experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is recognized for its thocky sound, which provides a satisfying auditory response with each keystroke. The Smoothie Silver also boasts a feather-light touch due to its short travel distance, allowing for rapid actuation during fast-paced gaming sessions.
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red switch is typically quieter compared to the thocky sound produced by the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch. The Smoothie Silver switch offers a unique auditory experience that adds an extra dimension to typing or gaming sessions, while the Red switch provides a simple and quiet keystroke that may be more suitable for a work environment or shared space.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch is known for its smooth linear action, providing a consistent and comfortable typing experience. The Gateron Smoothie Silver switch, on the other hand, offers unparalleled smoothness and a light touch thanks to its all-POM construction and short travel distance. This can result in a more responsive and effortless typing or gaming experience for users who prefer a lighter key feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Red switch and Gateron Smoothie Silver switch both offer linear actuation, they differ in sound and feel. The Smoothie Silver switch provides a thocky sound and feather-light touch, making it ideal for those who enjoy a unique auditory experience and rapid actuation. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch offers a quieter keystroke and smooth linear action, which may be preferred by users looking for a more understated typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific use case.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should choose the Outemu Red if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a reliable switch that is known for its smooth linear feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Gateron Smoothie Silver if you are seeking a switch with a unique all-POM construction, short travel distance, thocky sound, and feather-light touch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, switch characteristics, and desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
