Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two excellent options to consider are the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Bsun Taichi, both of which are linear switches. The Smoothie Silver is celebrated for its all-POM construction and short travel distance, allowing for lightning-fast actuation that is perfect for gamers and typists seeking speed and precision. With its thocky sound and feather-light touch, it offers an unparalleled smoothness that enhances the typing experience without a lot of resistance. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi is designed for those who appreciate stability and a distinctive auditory experience, featuring a long-pole stem and extended springs that contribute to a high-pitched bottom-out sound. Its walled stems provide exceptional smoothness, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy a controlled yet satisfying keystroke. While both switches have their unique advantages, your choice will ultimately hinge on your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience; 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
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches and the Bsun Taichi switches, notable differences emerge that impact their overall sound profile. The Smoothie Silver features a polyoxymethylene (POM) top housing, which contributes to a deeper and more muted sound experience. POM is renowned for its unique acoustic characteristics, allowing for a pleasing yet subtle auditory feedback. This is in stark contrast to the Taichi's polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness enhances resonance and clarity, creating a brighter and more defined auditory experience. Therefore, if a user prioritizes a deeper sound with softer nuances, the Smoothie Silver may be a more appropriate choice.
The bottom housing of these switches further showcases the contrasting effects of material choices on sound. The Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM bottom housing, which, like the top, maintains that unique, deeper sound profile, contributing to a fuller typing experience. Meanwhile, the Taichi opts for a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch material that produces a deeper and rounder sound due to its softer nature. The nylon's sound-absorbing characteristics ensure that the overall acoustic feedback is less piercing than that of the polycarbonate top housing. This divergence in sound profiles means that the user experience will be distinctly shaped by each switch's unique material blend, with the Taichi focusing more on resonance and clarity, especially at the bottom-out stage.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Bsun Taichi switches use materials that create enjoyable auditory experiences, the differences between POM, polycarbonate, and nylon contribute to unique sound profiles. The Smoothie Silver leans toward a soft, muted experience, while the Taichi offers a brighter and crisper tone. Despite these differences, both switches provide satisfying feedback and sound that can be appealing in varied contexts. Users who appreciate a blend of deeper sounds may find the Smoothie Silver to be fitting, while those who prefer a sharper articulation might lean toward the Taichi. Understanding these distinctions allows users to make informed choices based on their personal typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces. The Smoothie Silver requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Taichi is slightly lighter at 40 grams, making it the more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter touch that can facilitate prolonged typing sessions or lengthy gaming marathons. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so we cannot compare their bottoming out characteristics. However, given the actuation differences, users can expect a similar typing experience when it comes to their actuation; thus, those who favor a more substantial feel would lean towards the Smoothie Silver due to its heavier actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy lighter pressure with their keystrokes might find the Taichi more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the Smoothie Silver features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Taichi has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference suggests that the Smoothie Silver offers a snappier response, which may appeal to gamers seeking quick actuation for faster performance. In contrast, the Taichi's longer travel distance could provide a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a deeper keystroke and a more tactile experience. Overall, if you're inclined towards a more responsive touch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, whereas the Bsun Taichi is ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 profile, which gives a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued audible response while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switch produces a high-pitched bottom-out sound that can be captivating, especially for users who appreciate a sharper auditory note when they bottom out a key. The contrast in sound profiles between these switches highlights the importance of personal preference, as both options cater to different auditory tastes.
When it comes to feel, the Smoothie Silver is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, providing an effortless typing experience. The short travel distance allows for rapid actuation, making it particularly appealing for fast-paced typing and gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Taichi switch features a long-pole stem and extended springs, contributing to its own smoothness and stability, although the specifics of its feel may vary slightly due to its construction. Both switches deliver a gratifying tactile experience, but the Smoothie Silver leans more toward a light and fluid sensation, while the Taichi offers a blend of smooth operation with a slightly more pronounced structure due to its design.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Bsun Taichi linear switches cater to enthusiasts looking for smoothness, but they diverge in sound and feel. The Smoothie Silver provides a thocky sound with a very light touch that can enhance agility in typing, making it especially suitable for rapid keystrokes. In contrast, the Taichi offers a high-pitched auditory delight with its long-pole construction, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced sound. The decision between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile experience, but either option guarantees a level of quality that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for both sound and feel during keyboard use. If you're seeking extremely fast actuation with a light touch and appreciate a "thocky" sound, the Smoothie Silver is likely the best option for you. Its all-POM construction ensures a remarkable smoothness, making it ideal for gamers or typists who prioritize quick responses and a highly tactile experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more pronounced auditory experience from your keyboard, with a high-pitched bottom-out sound and an emphasis on stability, the Bsun Taichi switch may be your best bet. The long-pole design and extended springs not only provide a distinctive acoustic profile but also enhance the overall smoothness, catering to users who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while they type. Ultimately, your decision should factor in whether you value speed and a softer touch or sound and stability in your typing experience.
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