Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX SU both offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences, despite both falling into the linear switch category. The Smoothie Silver is celebrated for its all-POM construction, characterized by a short travel distance that facilitates lightning-fast actuation. This design not only ensures quick key presses but also provides a thocky sound coupled with an unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivers a subtle, deeper sound profile that appeals to those who appreciate a more tactile auditory feedback during their typing experiences. While both switches cater to the linear enthusiast, they bring distinct qualities to the table, allowing users to choose based on their preferred feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX SU reveals both similarities and differences that ultimately shape the typing experience. The Smoothie Silver utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top and bottom housings, which is known for producing a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. This is attributed to POM's properties as a denser material that offers a clean and pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU features nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, characterized by its softer nature that allows it to absorb sound more effectively than POM. Consequently, the sound produced by the SU is described as deeper and rounder, but it may not have the same clarity and uniqueness found in the POM housings of the Smoothie Silver.
While both switches produce a deeper sound profile, the nuances between POM and nylon are distinct, impacting the overall sound experience. The Smoothie Silver, with its POM materials, leans towards a more muted auditory presence, potentially providing a more subdued typing experience. Conversely, the HMX SU, with its nylon construction, offers a fuller sound that is less sharp and more rounded. These material differences indicate that users can expect a variation in feel as well; the softer nylon of the HMX SU can contribute to a slightly different tactile sensation during typing compared to the firmer feel of POM in the Smoothie Silver. Ultimately, these compositional variations suggest that while the switches may both offer a deeper sound profile, they present unique auditory and tactile experiences.
However, if you are looking for a certain acoustical quality that both the Smoothie Silver and HMX SU offer, you can achieve similar results through strategic housing customization. By understanding that the impact of sound is divided between the top and bottom housings, one can particularly focus on the characteristics of the bottom housing, which plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound. Users may consider hybridizing their switches or testing different housings to find a preferred combination that aligns with the more muted yet unique sound of POM from the Smoothie Silver and the fuller tone of nylon from the HMX SU. In doing so, one can effectively fine-tune their typing experience to achieve that desired sound quality, regardless of the initial materials used.
Weight
The Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX SU linear switches have comparable actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke. This means users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how hard they need to press to activate the switch. However, the bottom out force differs significantly: while the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unavailable, the HMX SU has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the HMX SU switch provides a more pronounced feel when the key is fully depressed, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Smoothie Silver can be seen as slightly lighter in total force feedback due to its unknown bottom out force, while the HMX SU is comparatively heavier due to its added resistance when bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Smoothie Silver, while users who enjoy a firmer feel may find the HMX SU more appealing.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that pressing down on the Smoothie Silver will feel a bit more responsive due to its shorter actuation distance, making it particularly suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and satisfying feel for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences, whether one values speed and responsiveness or a more pronounced and tactile experience during key activation.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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, which is generally regarded as pleasing and reminiscent of higher-end switch profiles. This distinctive audio feedback can enhance the typing experience, offering a satisfying auditory cue with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch has a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. While not as pronounced as the Smoothie Silver's, this deeper sound can be quite enjoyable for users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches can yield satisfying sound results depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, allowing for a range of tonal experiences.
When it comes to feel, the Smoothie Silver is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, making it a favorite among users looking for rapid actuation and an effortless typing experience. This switch's short travel distance further enhances its responsiveness, catering to those who favor speed during intense typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch, utilizing a T5 stem, may offer a different tactile sensation that some users might find to be slightly more substantial or controlled. However, the exact nuances of the feel are relatively less defined compared to the Smoothie Silver's remarkable smoothness. Both switches provide a linear experience, meaning users can look forward to smooth keystrokes, but the degree of that smoothness may vary.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX SU linear switches cater to users who appreciate linear characteristics, they offer distinct auditory experiences and tactile feedback. The Smoothie Silver is celebrated for its thocky sound and exceptional smoothness, ideal for rapid typing, while the SU provides a deeper sound with a more subdued profile and an unspecified feel that may appeal to users looking for something different. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, one could find comparable enjoyment from either switch, making them both solid choices for a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Smoothie Silver may be your best choice with its feather-light actuation, making it ideal for rapid key presses and gaming. Its all-POM construction ensures not only durability but also an incredibly smooth keystroke experience, paired with a distinctive thocky sound that adds character to your typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance and a deep auditory experience, the HMX SU switch might suit you better. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, this switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback that many typists enjoy, making it a great option for long typing sessions. Additionally, its full PA12 housing and T5 stem contribute to a deeper sound profile that many may find more pleasant. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs—whether that be the agile performance of the Smoothie Silver or the solid, reassuring feel of the HMX SU.
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