Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the KTT Strawberry are both excellent options to consider. The Smoothie Silver is known for its all-POM construction, short travel distance for quick actuation, thocky sound, smoothness, and feather-light touch. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry stands out for its attractive pink and clear housings, smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the Smoothie Silver is best categorized as a linear switch, the Strawberry falls under the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished". Both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing, 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie Silver and the KTT Strawberry both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Smoothie Silver utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound experience, but the choice between POM and polycarbonate will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics.
Although the Smoothie Silver and the KTT Strawberry have different housing materials, they both offer benefits in terms of sound quality. POM housings in the Smoothie Silver create a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side, while the polycarbonate housings in the Strawberry offer a sharper and crisper sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Both switches showcase the impact housing material can have on sound profile and overall typing experience.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Smoothie Silver and the KTT Strawberry play a significant role. The bottom housing material of a switch can impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material can influence the sound when releasing a key. In the case of these two switches, the choice between POM and polycarbonate will result in distinct differences in sound profile and typing feel. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the Smoothie Silver and the Strawberry offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Smoothie Silver has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Strawberry has a heavier force at 62 grams while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Smoothie Silver, while the Strawberry may provide a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Strawberry switch is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance of the Smoothie Silver is shorter, making it preferred by gamers for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Smoothie Silver providing a quicker key press and the Strawberry offering a more substantial feel. Ultimately, your preference for a shorter or longer travel distance will determine which switch is the better option for you.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky sound, providing a satisfying and deep tone during typing. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is characterized as having a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the typing experience, but ultimately the choice between them will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is recognized for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, offering a seamless typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches prioritize smooth key travel and reduced friction, ensuring a comfortable and consistent typing feel for users. Again, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that can enhance the typing experience. While the Smoothie Silver is known for its thocky sound and smooth actuation, the Strawberry is praised for its low-pitched sound profile and frictionless typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, with both switches aiming to provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the KTT Strawberry linear switches, you should consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom-out force for a light and quick typing experience, along with a thocky sound and feather-light touch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force for more stability, and enjoy a low-pitched sound along with a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, the KTT Strawberry would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you.
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