Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Huano Strawberry Latte represent two distinct options in the linear switch category. The Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a remarkably short travel distance and lightning-fast actuation, making it an ideal choice for gamers seeking rapid response times. Users also enjoy its thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness, contributing to an enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte employs advanced mold technology, offering a smooth keystroke with a balanced sound profile that is neither too quiet nor excessively resonant. This makes the Strawberry Latte appealing for those who value a harmonious auditory feedback while typing. Both switches provide unique benefits, with the Smoothie Silver excelling in speed and lightness, while the Strawberry Latte focuses on a balanced combination of smoothness and sound. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Huano Strawberry Latte utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influence the sound profile and overall performance of each switch. The Smoothie Silver features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and more muted sound. This material's acoustics foster a unique auditory experience that can be described as pleasing and refined. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing, which, while also smooth, delivers a clacky sound profile. The POK material is characterized by its low coefficient of friction, making it one of the smoothest available. Although both materials provide smooth performance, they generate different soundscapes, appealing to different tactile preferences.
Examining the bottom housings reveals another layer of contrast between the two switches. The Smoothie Silver is equipped with a POM bottom housing similar to its top, contributing to a cohesive sound profile that is muted yet pleasant. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte employs a nylon bottom housing, which tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper, fuller auditory experience. The nylon material's softer nature emphasizes the richness of the sound when typing, providing a more rounded note compared to the POM's subtle resonance. While both bottom housings play a critical role in the overall typing experience, the differences in material composition lead to distinctive auditory outcomes.
When considering how the distinct housings contribute to the overall performance of each switch, it's essential to understand the separation of qualities between the top and bottom materials. The POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver enhances the muted sound profile, while the POM bottom housing constrains the overall resonance. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte’s combination of a POK top and nylon bottom allows for a balanced interaction where the smoother top complements the deeper, fuller sound from the nylon base. Users can experience desirable typing sensations through both switches, yet the nuances offered by different materials yield a diversified experience. Even if the top and bottom housings differ, those interested in achieving a smooth typing experience can find satisfaction in both switches, as each harmonizes the characteristics of their respective materials to create unique, yet enjoyable, outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Smoothie Silver requires an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Strawberry Latte has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Strawberry Latte may be the more suitable choice. Additionally, while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is not specified, the Strawberry Latte's bottom out force is confirmed at 45 grams. This indicates that the Strawberry Latte is designed to be lighter overall, making it easier to press down and providing a less strenuous typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver, with its higher actuation force, would appeal to users seeking a heavier and more substantial feel when typing. Thus, if you desire a lighter switch, the Strawberry Latte is the clear choice, while those preferring more resistance would find the Smoothie Silver more fitting.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches, a notable difference emerges. The Smoothie Silver features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option of the two. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which provides a slightly deeper feel. This difference in travel distance can affect the overall typing experience; those who favor quicker response times may prefer the Smoothie Silver for its shorter actuation, while others who enjoy a more substantial keypress might find the Strawberry Latte more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences regarding responsiveness and depth.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 produces a thocky sound that many enthusiasts find appealing. This provides a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic quality. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers a balanced sound profile, sitting comfortably between quiet and overly resonant. This makes the Strawberry Latte versatile, catering to users who prefer a more subdued typing sound without the risk of being too silent or too loud. Ultimately, both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, and the outcome is further influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Smoothie Silver shines with its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light actuation, making it very responsive and enjoyable for fast typists. The short travel distance ensures that each keystroke feels effortless, which can be particularly advantageous during long typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte is also recognized for its super smooth operation, likely attributed to the advanced molds used in its manufacturing. While the exact tactile feedback may vary, both switches are designed to deliver a pleasant and fluid experience, with the Smoothie Silver potentially feeling lighter in action due to its feather-light touch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches cater to different preferences while maintaining high standards of performance. The Smoothie Silver offers a pronounced thocky sound and an extremely light touch, while the Strawberry Latte presents a more balanced auditory profile with impressive smoothness. For enthusiasts looking for similar results, both switches are capable of delivering satisfying typing experiences, albeit with their own unique characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between them will come down to individual preferences regarding sound and feel, as well as the specific keyboard setup you choose to use them with.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you desire. If you value incredibly fast actuation with a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver is the ideal choice, especially for gaming where quick responses can make all the difference. Its thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness offer a unique typing experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a tactile sensation without the weight. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light bottom-out force that still delivers a balanced sound and feel, the Strawberry Latte is a solid option. Ideal for those who appreciate a smooth keystroke without being overly quiet or resonant, it strikes a nice balance for general typing and casual gaming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize speed and lightness or a harmonious typing experience with moderate sound—each switch caters to differing needs and preferences.
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