Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh the unique qualities of various switches. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and Gateron Type L both fall into the linear category, yet they cater to different typing experiences. The Sea Salt Smoothie is celebrated for its medium-weight feel and a thocky sound profile that delivers exceptional smoothness, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback without any tactile bump. In contrast, the Type L stands out as the lightest switch in Gateron’s lineup, requiring just 45g to bottom out. With its more subdued and deeper sound signature, it appeals to users seeking a feather-light keystroke with contemporary factory lubing benefits. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your typing preferences and desired feedback; the Smoothie excels in sound quality and tactile satisfaction, while the Type L shines in effortless key presses and modern enhancements. 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
48g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Gateron Type L, one can observe distinct differences between the POM and nylon compositions. The Sea Salt Smoothie's POM top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. POM, known for its durability and density, has acoustic properties that make typing feel satisfying while creating a unique sound experience. In contrast, the Type L features nylon top and bottom housings, which evoke a classic switch experience and present a deeper yet fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder sound that significantly alters the overall auditory experience while typing.
Despite these differences, both switches strive for a sound profile that leans towards deeper tones. While POM brings a subtlety and unique character to the Sea Salt Smoothie, nylon enhances the richness of the Type L's sound. This fundamental similarity lies within the shared goal: both materials aim to provide a pleasant auditory experience that enhances typing satisfaction. The choice between them may ultimately depend on personal preference—whether one favors the muted subtleties of POM or the fuller resonance of nylon. Thus, both may evoke similar results in terms of user engagement, but the nuances between the two are celebrated through their material properties.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings further distinguishes these switches. The POM construction of the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a solid base, lending a particular feel to the switch that is different from the Type L's softer nylon build. While both switches are designed to deliver a deep tonal quality, the Type L's softer approach means that users may experience a more rounded and cushioned feel. Ultimately, while presentations of sound and texture vary between the two switches, users can expect that both housing choices deliver gratifying typing experiences. The combination of housing materials is essential in defining the unique characteristics of each switch, showcasing the significant impact that even slight variations in composition can have on performance and user satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces. The Sea Salt Smoothie features an actuation force of 48 grams, while the Type L has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams. This difference indicates that the Type L switch is easier to press, making it a more suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, particularly for extended typist use or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie's heftier actuation force may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel during typing. Regarding the bottom-out forces, the Type L has a known bottom-out force of 45 grams, whereas the bottom-out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown; thus, we cannot directly compare it. If both switches had the same bottom-out forces, users might expect a similarly consistent experience when bottoming out. However, with the Type L being lighter in terms of actuation force, it stands out as the more forgiving option for those seeking comfort over prolonged use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch measures 4 mm. This makes the Sea Salt Smoothie the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its more responsive and less abrupt feel. In contrast, the Type L with its longer travel distance caters to those who prefer a more substantial depth when typing, providing a more tactile experience. While the difference is only 0.3 mm, it can significantly influence user preference based on how one perceives the switch's feedback and responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on the user's personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Sea Salt 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 Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
The Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a thocky sound profile that provides a satisfying auditory feedback when typing, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L presents a more neutral sound signature that veers towards subdued, resulting in a dampened sound upon keypresses. This quieter characteristic makes the Type L a suitable choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check, though it still provides enough auditory response for a satisfying typing experience. Both switches’ sound characteristics can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, meaning the actual sound can vary based on these factors.
When it comes to feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie switch is known for its exceptional smoothness, making each keystroke fluid and effortless. Unfortunately, the exact details regarding the feel of the Sea Salt Smoothie aren't specified. In contrast, the Type L is recognized for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring only a light touch to actuate. This lightweight feel minimizes finger fatigue during long usage sessions, enhancing comfort whether you're gaming, typing, or working. Its gentle resistance allows for an effortless typing experience, ensuring a responsive interaction with each keypress that is particularly appealing for extended tasks.
Overall, both the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and Type L linear switches cater to distinct preferences but share the goal of providing comfort and quality. While the Sea Salt Smoothie excels in delivering a deeper sound with a smooth feel, the Type L offers a quieter experience paired with an incredibly light actuation force, fostering a comfortable typing environment. Depending on individual user preferences regarding sound and feel, either switch can be an excellent addition to a mechanical keyboard setup, promising an enjoyable typing experience tailored to different environments and typing styles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Gateron Type L linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you find value in a smooth, medium-weight switch that offers a unique thocky sound profile, the Sea Salt Smoothie may be the ideal choice for you. Its unknown bottom-out force adds an element of mystery but is tailored for users who appreciate a more tactile auditory feedback during use. In contrast, if you prefer a lighter feel combined with a more subdued and neutral sound signature, the Type L is likely to suit your needs better. Its 45-gram actuation force makes it wonderfully light and easy to press, minimizing finger fatigue and making it a great option for long sessions of typing, gaming, or work. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific typing style, whether you desire a more dynamic audio experience or a feather-light touch with every keystroke.
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