Everglide Sakura Pink vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Sakura Pink is ideal for those who prefer a light and delicate typing experience, with its 35g actuation force and smooth, frictionless operation. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is perfect for those looking for lightning-fast actuation and a thocky sound, thanks to its all-POM construction. 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, we can see that both switches feature unique properties that affect the sound profile and feel of the switch. The Sakura Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles can influence the typing experience and preference of the user. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Sakura Pink allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches also showcase distinct characteristics. The Sakura Pink's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile, while the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing creates a more pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side. The choice of material for the bottom housing can impact the overall typing experience, especially when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Users who prefer a sharper sound may lean towards the Sakura Pink, while those who enjoy a more muted sound may choose the Smoothie Silver.
Overall, while the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a combination of characteristics that influence both the pressing down and letting go of keys. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches provide distinct options for a personalized typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, which requires 45 grams of force to actuate. This means that the Sakura Pink switch is easier to activate with a lighter touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Sakura Pink switch also requires 45 grams of force, similar to the Smoothie Silver switch. In terms of weight, the Sakura Pink switch may be more suited for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Sakura Pink offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for users looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a deeper keystroke, opt for the Sakura Pink, while those seeking a quicker response may lean towards the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, so you can expect similar results regardless of the travel distance you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is often described as producing a playful and poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a unique touch to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch's sound profile is not specified, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Sakura Pink is known for providing a buttery, creamy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation with minimal resistance, making typing a comfortable and low-impact activity. The frictionless operation of the Sakura Pink adds to its appeal by providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. Conversely, details about the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch are not available, making it challenging to contrast the two directly.
Overall, both the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Sakura Pink stands out for its light actuation force, smooth gliding feel, and distinctive poppy sound, making it ideal for delicate typists looking for a playful typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's characteristics, such as short travel distance, thocky sound, and feather-light touch, cater to those seeking fast actuation and a smooth keystroke experience. While direct comparisons on sound and feel may be challenging due to the limited information available for the Smoothie Silver switch, both switches are likely to provide satisfying results based on their individual features.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your typing preferences. If you enjoy a super light actuation force and a playful sound like popping bubble wrap, then the Sakura Pink may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style and the experience you want to achieve. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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