TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie offer two distinct typing experiences. The Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that provides a medium tactile feel, offering a satisfying level of resistance while remaining quiet, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch made entirely of POM material, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Silent Bluish Whites are categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Muted', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Smoothie switches are categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make it appealing for different preferences and situations; 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
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie, we see that the Silent Bluish White (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing while the Smoothie has a POM top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie produces a deeper and more muted sound. Interestingly, both materials offer unique sound profiles but cater to different preferences in terms of pitch and resonance. Despite these differences, they both excel in enhancing the overall typing experience with their distinctive characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, while the Smoothie features a POM bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. It's evident that both housing materials have their own strengths in shaping the sound profile of the switch, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the deeper sound produced by POM.
Overall, while the housing materials of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie may differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles, they both play crucial roles in determining the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate and nylon housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) provide a sharper and fuller sound, while the POM housing of the Smoothie creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these distinctions, both switches excel in their ability to enhance the typing experience by offering unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each material plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of the switch when in use.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we see that the Silent Bluish White has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Bluish White is heavier at 50 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Silent Bluish White requires a slightly lighter touch to activate a keystroke, but exerts more pressure when fully pressed. The Smoothie's weight is unknown but seems to be a lighter option. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Bluish White for longer typing sessions, while others who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the same switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's desired typing experience and preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we find that the Silent Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference between the two distances is minimal, it can still impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. The Smoothie is slightly longer in travel distance, which may provide a slightly deeper and more deliberate keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches fall within a similar range of travel distance, so choosing between the two would likely result in comparable results in terms of typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
The Gateron 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 Smoothie 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for shared spaces or office environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound that is rich and satisfying, creating a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Silent Bluish White being more subtle and the Smoothie providing a more pronounced and bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth, gentle typing experience with a refined finish. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is also described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Both switches offer a seamless typing experience with a light touch, but the Smoothie may have a slightly creamier feel due to potential factory lubrication or specific materials used in its construction.
Overall, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Bluish White excels in providing a quieter typing experience with medium tactility, while the Smoothie stands out for its thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs. Ultimately, whether you choose the Silent Bluish White or the Smoothie, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with similar levels of smoothness and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your priorities in typing experience. If you value a medium tactile feel with quiet operation, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switches may be the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a precise and comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile, making them perfect for office or shared living spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie switches offer a different typing experience with a buttery, creamy feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing smoothness.
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