KTT Rose vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique benefits for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Rose switch is praised for its progressive springs that provide a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, accompanied by a calming sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, short travel distance for quick actuation, thocky sound profile, smoothness, and feather-light touch. While the Rose switch is known for its low-pitched and polished feel, the Smoothie Silver remains neutral in its categorization. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is clear that the Rose utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, while the Smoothie Silver opts for POM. The Rose's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a different typing experience altogether. While both materials offer their own unique sound profiles, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of which sound you prefer while typing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Rose features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, which, like its top housing, offers a unique sound profile on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to nylon. Both housing materials offer their own advantages in terms of sound output, giving users the opportunity to choose based on their preferences for typing sound.
When considering the overall typing experience, it is important to recognize that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Rose offers a balance of sharp and deep sound profiles, whereas the use of POM in both the top and bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver provides a consistent and unique typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of POM, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The KTT Rose has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Rose switch offers a substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Smoothie Silver provides a lighter actuation force for a smoother keystroke. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between a lighter or heavier typing experience based on these differences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Rose linear switch is 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Smoothie Silver has a shorter distance compared to the Rose. The 3.4 mm travel distance of the Smoothie Silver may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances are becoming more popular. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Rose may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press 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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When comparing the sound of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, the Rose provides a low-pitched, bassy raindrop sound, while the Smoothie Silver offers a thocky sound that is accompanied by unparalleled smoothness. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Rose providing a more mellow tone and the Smoothie Silver offering a distinct thocky sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Rose linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is not available. However, based on its all-POM construction and short travel distance, users can anticipate a fast and lightweight typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Rose provides a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished typing feel, the Smoothie Silver offers a thocky sound and a fast, lightweight typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, a unique typing experience with progressive springs, and a low-pitched sound profile, the Rose switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound with unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch might be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics you prioritize in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
