Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, each catering to different tactile preferences. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is a medium-weight linear switch made from all-POM materials, known for its exceptional smoothness and a distinct thocky sound profile that gives a satisfying auditory feedback without the interruptions of tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch that balances medium tactility with a light touch, offering a more nuanced typing experience often described as the "Goldilocks" switch—neither too intense nor too soft, complemented by a neutral sound signature that keeps it versatile for various environments. For those who appreciate a fluid, uninterrupted keystroke, the Sea Salt Smoothie is an enticing option, whereas the Violet Gold Pro caters to users seeking a balanced tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, the differences in housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. The Sea Salt Smoothie features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper, more muted sound. This characteristic is attributed to POM's inherent properties that contribute to a warm auditory experience. Conversely, the Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This distinction in material composition is substantial; while the Sea Salt Smoothie's sound is enveloping and quelled, the Violet Gold Pro's sound is bright and clear, making it ideal for users who prefer an articulate auditory feedback during typing.
Delving deeper into the bottom housing, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing similarly creates a cohesive sound profile that resonates with a unique and pleasing auditory quality. Both of these POM components work together to reproduce a richer, muted sound. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which is characterized by its fuller, deeper sound due to nylon's tendency to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. This differentiation means that the Sea Salt Smoothie's switching experience leans towards warmth, whereas the Violet Gold Pro tends towards a sharper and crisper performance. Users opting for the Violet Gold Pro will notice that the nylon bottom housing accentuates the switch's muffled, deep sounds with an overall trend towards clarity and resonance.
In summary, the combination of materials used in each switch's housing significantly defines their respective acoustic properties. While both switches aim for an engaging typing experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie relies on its consistent POM material to produce its unique sound, whereas the Violet Gold Pro takes advantage of polycarbonate and nylon to yield a more varied aural landscape. However, since the bottom housing's impact on sound is undeniable, both switches can achieve a balanced experience when engaged properly. When utilizing switches like the Sea Salt Smoothie and the Violet Gold Pro, one can expect distinct auditory feedback depending on user preference—be it the warmth of POM or the clarity of polycarbonate and nylon combinations, thus catering to diverse tactile and auditory requirements of any typist.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, one notable difference lies in their actuation forces. The Sea Salt Smoothie requires an actuation force of 48 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro is slightly lighter at 45 grams. This indicates that users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Violet Gold Pro to be a more comfortable option for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, both switches have unknown bottom-out forces, making it impossible to directly compare their overall key travel experience in that regard. In terms of actuation force, the Sea Salt Smoothie is the heavier switch, appealing to those who desire a more substantial typing feel. Meanwhile, the Violet Gold Pro, being the lighter option, may offer a faster response for users who favor a more sensitive keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the Sea Salt Smoothie measures 3.7 mm, while the Violet Gold Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Sea Salt Smoothie the shorter option, providing a slight advantage for those seeking responsiveness in their keystrokes, which is often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel and deeper keystrokes. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Sea Salt Smoothie will deliver a faster response, whereas the Violet Gold Pro offers a deeper experience, catering to different user preferences.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 exploring the sound profiles of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, we find distinct characteristics that cater to different auditory preferences. The Sea Salt Smoothie is noted for its thocky sound profile, which is often sought after for its satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This deeper, fuller sound enhances the overall typing experience for users who appreciate a resonant acoustic presence. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound signature. This means it produces a moderate sound level that is versatile enough to suit various environments, whether in quiet offices or at home. The combination of these attributes ensures that, while the Sea Salt Smoothie may appeal more to those looking for a pronounced sound, the Violet Gold Pro will serve well for individuals who prefer a more subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie provides an exceptionally smooth keystroke, creating a seamless typing experience that is both enjoyable and effortless. This smoothness can make it particularly appealing for extended typing sessions, allowing fingers to glide with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro exhibits a stepped tactile feel, which introduces a subtle distinction during actuation. This stepped sensation means users can experience a mild tactile bump, creating a sense of feedback at the actuation point without overwhelming the typing experience. This contrast provides options for users depending on whether they prefer the sleekness of the Sea Salt Smoothie or the responsive, tactile feedback offered by the Violet Gold Pro.
In summary, both the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer unique benefits that cater to different typing preferences. The Sea Salt Smoothie stands out for its thocky sound and ultra-smooth feel, ideal for those who enjoy an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro achieves a balanced typing experience with its neutral sound and mild tactile feedback, making it suitable for a wide audience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, as both will deliver satisfying results depending on the type of feedback and sound a user seeks.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it's important to consider your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you're seeking a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a thocky sound, the Sea Salt Smoothie will likely suit you well. Its smooth action makes it an excellent choice for gaming or fast typing tasks where you want to achieve quick key presses without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more nuanced typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump, the Violet Gold Pro would be the better option. Its stepped tactile design provides a satisfying feedback that can enhance your typing rhythm, making it a great choice for typists who enjoy a bit of resistance as they type. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you value the seamlessness of a linear switch or the tactile satisfaction of a more textured typing experience.
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