Outemu Silver vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Silver and the Gateron Smoothie. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is also a linear switch, but is praised for its thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and lightweight feel. While the Silver offers a standard linear typing experience, the Smoothie provides a unique combination of buttery smoothness and a low-pitched thocky sound. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Gateron Smoothie, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound profile and aesthetics. The Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Despite their differences in sound profile, both switches' top housings are designed for optimal performance with RGB lighting, making them equally suitable for users looking to enhance their typing experience with colorful lighting effects.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Silver's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing offers a similar deep and muted sound profile, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users who value a quieter keyboard. While the bottom housing of a switch primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, both the Silver and the Smoothie feature materials that contribute to a well-rounded typing experience, with a focus on producing pleasing and unique sound profiles.
Overall, while the Outemu Silver and the Gateron Smoothie may differ in their specific housing materials, both switches aim to provide users with a premium typing experience that prioritizes sound quality and aesthetics. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile like that of the Silver's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper and more muted sound like that of the Smoothie's POM top housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Silver and the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie ensure a consistent typing experience that is focused on delivering a rich and satisfying sound profile for users to enjoy.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver requires 65 grams while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The Silver switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Smoothie's force is unavailable for comparison. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Smoothie switch for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may prefer the Silver switch for a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Silver's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional category, providing a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Smoothie's 3.6mm travel distance is shallower, appealing to those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie for its fast actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, with slight variations in travel distance to cater to different user preferences.
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 Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for providing a sound that is not particularly distinctive. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is renowned for its thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound profile. The thocky sound signature of the Smoothie switch offers a deep, rich, and satisfying tone, creating a unique auditory experience. While the sound produced by the Silver switch may be more neutral, the Smoothie switch stands out for its pleasing and distinct sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have any specific descriptors provided, making it challenging to pinpoint its exact tactile qualities. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky. A buttery switch delivers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The creamy and silky attributes of the Smoothie switch further enhance the typing feel, providing a silky and effortless glide across the keys. This emphasis on smoothness and uniformity in keypresses sets the Smoothie switch apart in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Silver linear switch and Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silver switch may provide a more neutral sound and tactile experience, the Smoothie switch excels in delivering a thocky sound profile and a buttery-smooth typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between the more subdued sound of the Silver switch or the rich, deep tones of the Smoothie switch for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality options that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Silver switch would be a suitable option for you. The Silver switch is also known for its specific characteristics, which may align with your preferences. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force, the Gateron Smoothie could be a great choice. The Smoothie switch offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, which may cater to your desired typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific attributes and qualities that best suit your typing style and preferences.
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