KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, a linear switch. The Phalaenopsis switch is praised for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue. With a tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke provides a satisfying feedback. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver is known for its lightning-fast actuation due to a short travel distance and all-POM construction. This switch offers a thocky sound, unmatched smoothness, and a feather-light touch. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Smoothie Silver offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics based on their composition. The Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top and bottom housing, creating a more muted and deeper sound that is still pleasing and unique. This difference in sound profiles between the two switches highlights the impact of housing material on the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Phalaenopsis and the Smoothie Silver, they both offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience in different ways. While the polycarbonate housing of the Phalaenopsis provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver offers a deeper and more muted sound. These contrasting qualities cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts, allowing for a customized typing experience based on individual preferences. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an extra aesthetic dimension to the keyboard.
The impact of housing materials on the sound profile and typing feel of a switch is evident when comparing the Phalaenopsis and the Smoothie Silver. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as stiffness and impact on the bottom-out sound, will affect the typing experience when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials demonstrates the importance of considering both components when selecting a switch for a keyboard, as they work together to create a cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 gram actuation force. The Phalaenopsis also requires a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Phalaenopsis make it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as in office settings or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. It is important to consider individual preferences when choosing between the two switches, as weight plays a significant role in determining the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users will achieve similar results based on their specific needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie Silver. The Phalaenopsis's 4 mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, providing a balance of depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Phalaenopsis may provide a slightly more satisfying tactile feedback due to its longer travel distance, while the Smoothie Silver may offer quicker key presses with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound during key presses, providing a rich audio feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided. However, considering the all-POM construction and smoothness of the Smoothie Silver, it is likely to produce a quieter and smoother sound compared to the Phalaenopsis.
In terms of feel, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as having a "stepped" feel, meaning it offers a tactile bump in two distinct stages during the keystroke. This can provide a unique typing experience with defined feedback at different points of the key press. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel descriptor provided for the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch. However, based on its short travel distance and feather-light touch, it is likely to offer a consistent and smooth typing experience without a pronounced tactile bump.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a satisfying and deep sound profile along with a distinct tactile feedback, the KTT Phalaenopsis would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and lightning-fast actuation, the Gateron Smoothie Silver would be more suitable. Both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should choose the Phalaenopsis if you value a light actuation force, a satisfying tactile bump, and a beautiful translucent design. This switch is perfect for those looking for a smooth typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, opt for the Smoothie Silver if you prefer a feather-light touch, lightning-fast actuation, and a unique thocky sound. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize speed and smoothness in their typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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