Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both of which are linear switches. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is renowned for its innovative design that provides a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts lightning-fast actuation due to its short travel distance, along with a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. While the Semi-Silent Linear is described as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', the Smoothie Silver's categorization is not directly provided. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences, 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, the most prominent difference lies in the top housing material. The Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver boasts a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles is essential for users who have specific preferences for the type of typing experience they seek.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Semi-Silent Linear and the Smoothie Silver share the use of nylon and POM respectively. Nylon, as seen in the Semi-Silent Linear, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller yet rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing in the Smoothie Silver adds to its deeper and muted sound profile. Despite the switch in materials from top to bottom, the impact on the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel remains consistent, emphasizing either the sharpness or depth of the sound produced.
However, it is worth noting that despite the differences in housing materials between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both switches are designed to provide a satisfactory and enjoyable typing experience. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear or the softer POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality, albeit with subtle variations in pitch and depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Semi-Silent Linear has a lighter actuation force of None grams, while the Smoothie Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Semi-Silent Linear is 62 grams, which is a medium weight, whereas the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unavailable. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear for a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. If you prioritize a quicker response, the Smoothie Silver may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and feedback in your key presses, you may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear to be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and neutral sound profile, producing a dampened sound while maintaining a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is known for its thocky sound, though specific details on sound characteristics are unknown. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience, with the Semi-Silent Linear being quieter and more subtle, while the Smoothie Silver likely offers a more distinct and satisfying sound for enthusiasts. Ultimately, the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with super responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a refined finish for reduced friction. The Gateron Smoothie Silver switch's feel characteristics are not detailed, but as an all-POM switch with a short travel distance, it likely provides a unique and fast actuation experience. Both switches likely offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Semi-Silent Linear having a more diverse range of feel characteristics compared to the Smoothie Silver.
In conclusion, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches offer different but equally intriguing qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Semi-Silent Linear is quieter with a subtle sound profile and a smooth feel, while the Smoothie Silver likely provides a distinct thocky sound and lightning-fast actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience. However, if one prefers a more subdued sound and gentle typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear may be the preferred choice, while the Smoothie Silver may appeal to those looking for a unique and fast actuation experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a semi-silent sound profile that is both subdued and neutral, opt for the Semi-Silent Linear. This switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force that is non-existent and a thocky sound profile, go for the Smoothie Silver. This switch provides a snappy and polished typing experience with lightning-fast actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound, feeling, and typing experience. Choose wisely based on what suits your preferences best.
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