Outemu Tom vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, a linear switch, offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference. The Tom is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is renowned for its lightning-fast actuation due to its short travel distance, smoothness, and feather-light touch. While the Tom offers a tactile typing experience, the Smoothie Silver provides a smoother and quieter operation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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 Tom and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Tom's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a visually appealing element with their translucent housing - the polycarbonate of the Tom for RGB lighting and the POM of the Smoothie Silver for a sleek and modern look.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Tom utilizes a nylon material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to the deeper and muted sound profile that is characteristic of this material. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, highlighting the importance of both materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Tom and the Gateron Smoothie Silver differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate and POM top housings create distinct sound characteristics - sharp and high-pitched for the Tom, and deep and muted for the Smoothie Silver. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings contribute to a fuller sound experience with their softer properties. Despite these differences, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience with their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Smoothie Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to directly compare in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Smoothie Silver may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for more effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Tom may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In terms of actuation force, users can expect similar results from both switches if they prefer a lighter touch, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Tom. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. However, some users may find the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Smoothie Silver to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the extra depth of the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Tom. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Tom 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 Tom switch is known for its undefined sound profile, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is praised for its thocky sound that is smooth and satisfying. When it comes to feel, the Tom switch offers a tactile bump while the Smoothie Silver switch provides a feather-light touch with its linear design. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Tom switch giving tactile feedback and the Smoothie Silver switch focusing on a fast and smooth actuation.
Considering all the available information, if you prefer a switch with a tactile bump and are indifferent to sound, the Outemu Tom switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and fast typing experience with a thocky sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch would be the more favorable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a tactile switch with no bottom out force and are looking for a switch best known for specific qualities, the Outemu Tom may be the right choice for you. However, if you value lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch may be more suitable. Remember to consider the sound and feel preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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