Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique advantages to users. The Smoothie Silver is praised for its lightning-fast actuation due to its short travel distance, along with a thocky sound, smooth operation, and a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is favored for its fast and precise typing experience, featuring a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. While the Smoothie Silver may appeal to those looking for speed and smoothness, the Speed Silver caters to individuals seeking a tactile typing experience with quick actuation. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the TTC Speed Silver, one notable difference is in their top housings. The Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Speed Silver allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially beneficial for those who prefer RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite these differences, both housing materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Gateron Smoothie Silver incorporates a POM bottom housing, which maintains the deep and muted sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch, catering to those who prefer a specific sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the TTC Speed Silver plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While the Smoothie Silver emphasizes the unique sound created by POM materials, the Speed Silver focuses on a crisper and sharper sound profile through the use of polycarbonate. Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches, whether POM or nylon, contribute to the overall sound and feel when typing. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and TTC Speed Silver linear switches is the same at 45 grams, making them equally light to press down. However, the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown, while the Speed Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier when fully pressed. This means that the Speed Silver switch requires a bit more force for a more solid typing experience compared to the Smoothie Silver, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the TTC Speed Silver linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when you press down on either key, you will feel the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This makes both switches ideal for those who prefer a consistent feel and response when typing or gaming. With their equal travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and performance. Whether you choose the Gateron Smoothie Silver or the TTC Speed Silver, you can be confident in the consistent travel distance and tactile experience they provide.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Smoothie Silver switch is known for its thocky sound, offering a unique and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The choice of keycaps and keyboard housing can also play a role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is recognized for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, providing a seamless typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver switch is considered to offer a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Speed Silver switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing feel with reduced friction.
Overall, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and TTC Speed Silver switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Smoothie Silver switch is preferred for its thocky sound and smooth touch, perfect for users looking for a lightning-fast and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is a versatile option with a neutral sound profile and mild feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users and typing scenarios. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, the Speed Silver would be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on your desired typing feel and sound preference.
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