Jerrzi Poseidon vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Jerrzi Poseidon, a linear switch, and the Gateron Smoothie, also a linear switch. The Poseidon is best known for its smooth action and is categorized as a high-quality linear switch. On the other hand, the Smoothie has garnered attention for being an all-POM switch that breaks the price barrier while maintaining quality, delivering a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch. It falls under categories like buttery, thocky, low-pitched, creamy, subdued, and silky. Each switch has its unique strengths and characteristics that make them stand out, appealing to different preferences and usage scenarios. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch suits your needs best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
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
The Jerrzi Poseidon and the Gateron Smoothie both feature POM top and bottom housings, which create a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to other housing materials. This allows for a more refined and subtle typing experience, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. However, despite the similarities in their housing materials, there may still be slight differences in the sound and feel of the switches due to variations in manufacturing and design.
One of the key differences between the two switches lies in the design and construction of their top and bottom housings. While both switches utilize POM material for both components, the way in which they are engineered may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel. For example, the Poseidon may have a slightly different sound profile when pressing down on a key compared to the Smoothie, as the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing of each switch may have a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Gateron Smoothie offer a premium typing experience characterized by their POM housing materials. The unique sound profile created by these housings contributes to a satisfying and tactile typing experience that is favored by many keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you choose the Poseidon or the Smoothie, you can expect a similar level of performance and quality due to their shared use of POM material for both top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to initiate a keystroke. When considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Poseidon for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for a heavier switch like the Smoothie for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. This means that the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Poseidon. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Poseidon a good option for those looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Smoothie's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and deliberate key feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches offer slightly different tactile experiences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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.
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 Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a unique thocky sound signature that is deep, rich, and satisfying. Additionally, the Smoothie switch is low-pitched and produces a subdued sound, adding to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Poseidon switch does not have specific descriptors available, indicating that its typing experience may be more neutral or standard. On the contrary, the Gateron Smoothie switch is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience. These descriptors suggest that the Smoothie switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
Considering all the available information, the Jerrzi Poseidon and Gateron Smoothie linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Poseidon switch provides a quiet typing experience and a standard feel, the Smoothie switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It's important to test out both switches to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a switch with a lightweight touch and a thocky sound signature at an affordable price point, the Gateron Smoothie may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of None grams and other unique characteristics, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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