TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, one must consider factors such as tactility, sound level, and overall typing experience. The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility, providing a satisfying resistance when pressed for a precise and comfortable typing experience. What sets these switches apart is their quiet operation, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver is a linear switch known for its lightning-fast actuation due to its short travel distance. With a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch offers a unique typing experience. While the Silent Bluish White switch may be preferred for its tactile feedback and quiet operation, the Smoothie Silver switch may appeal to those looking for speed and smoothness in their typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Silver, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles with their respective top housing materials. The Silent Bluish White (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While the two materials offer distinct sound profiles, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a satisfying acoustic feedback to the user.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, we see a difference in the Silent Bluish White (V2) with its nylon bottom housing compared to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver also produces a deeper sound profile, adding to the overall unique typing experience. Despite the difference in housing materials, both switches offer a similar goal of enhancing the sound quality of typing while providing a comfortable and satisfying keystroke feel.
In considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that each material brings its own qualities to the switch. The split between the bottom and top housing allows for a dual effect on the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both the Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Smoothie Silver excel in providing a unique and pleasing typing experience through the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it can be seen that the Silent Bluish White (V2) is lighter in both aspects. The Silent Bluish White (V2) has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The actuation force of the Silent Bluish White (V2) is slightly lighter than the Smoothie Silver, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Silent Bluish White (V2) is also lighter, providing a gentler typing experience overall. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, with the Silent Bluish White (V2) being lighter and the Smoothie Silver potentially offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we can see that the Silent Bluish White (V2) has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Smoothie Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Silent Bluish White (V2) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key responsiveness and 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 $5.35.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a muted experience, producing softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes them ideal for environments where noise needs to be minimized, such as in an office or shared living space. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Smoothie Silver is not specifically described, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard's build and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is characterized by a buttery and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and gentle keystroke that is approachable to most users. These switches provide a uniform and effortless typing sensation, making them comfortable for extended use. Additionally, the stepped and polished nature of these switches adds to their overall appeal. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver's feel is not detailed, but it is known for its unparalleled smoothness, feather-light touch, and short travel distance for quick actuation.
Considering all the available information, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie Silver offer distinct subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a quiet and comfortable typing experience with a medium tactile feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, speed, and a thocky sound in a linear switch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver would be a suitable option. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different focuses on sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when making the decision between the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a medium tactile feel with a precise and quiet typing experience, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switches are the way to go. They provide a satisfying level of resistance without the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switches are the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing needs.
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