Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Twilight, both celebrated for their linear characteristics. The Smoothie Silver stands out with its incredibly short travel distance and feather-light actuation, designed for lightning-fast response times, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists seeking speed and precision. With an all-POM construction, this switch delivers a thocky sound and a remarkably smooth keystroke, contributing to an enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight offers a more extended travel distance of 3.85mm, allowing for a slightly quieter operation while still maintaining the signature clacky sound that HMX switches are known for. This combination makes the Twilight a fantastic option for those who prefer a more deliberate typing feel without sacrificing fluidity or responsiveness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Twilight switches, the differences in their compositions play a significant role in shaping the overall acoustics and typing experience of each switch. The Gateron Smoothie Silver features a top and bottom housing crafted from POM (polyoxymethylene) plastic, known for its ability to produce a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. In contrast, the HMX Twilight utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material recognized for generating a deeper and fuller sound. This nylon composition, being softer, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. These fundamental distinctions in materiality suggest that while both switches aim for richer sound profiles, the POM housings of the Smoothie Silver tend to deliver a more subtle acoustic quality compared to the fuller resonance of the nylon housings in the HMX Twilight.

In analyzing the sound characteristics further, the differences between POM and nylon become more pronounced. The Smoothie Silver’s POM material contributes to a muted sound that can feel refined and less intrusive, which is particularly appealing for users who prefer a subdued typing experience. Conversely, the nylon housing of the HMX Twilight is designed to produce a rounder sound that can resonate more through the keystrokes, adding depth and character to each press. This differentiation is magnified both in the bottom-out sound—the sound produced when the key is pressed all the way down—and on the release, as the top housing largely influences the auditory feedback when a key is lifted. Despite their differing materials, the shared goal of achieving a satisfying auditory feedback remains evident.

Ultimately, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX Twilight switches utilize different materials, their design choices lead to somewhat similar desired outcomes in terms of sound profile. The POM housing's capability of producing a pleasing sound aligns with the nylon's goal of creating a rich auditory landscape, albeit through different methodologies. Similarly, both designs offer a satisfying typing experience, with the characteristics attributed to the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing's qualities come into play more pronouncedly during key release. Therefore, despite their contrasting materials, users of either switch can expect an engaging auditory interaction that enhances their typing experience—just through distinct pathways.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there are notable differences. The Smoothie Silver features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Twilight has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Smoothie Silver requires a bit more pressure to register a keystroke, making it potentially less suitable for extended typing sessions for those who prefer lighter switches. In terms of bottom out force, the Twilight has a specified bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a tactile feedback point when the key is fully pressed down. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver is not available, making a direct comparison difficult. However, due to its heavier actuation force, the Smoothie Silver is likely to provide a more substantial typing experience, while the Twilight is the lighter option that may appeal to users who prioritize comfort over a strong push feel during long usage.

Travel distance

The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that users of the Smoothie Silver will experience a shorter and potentially more responsive keystroke, which is often favored by gamers looking for quick actuation. In contrast, the Twilight's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial typing experience, as it allows for more pronounced feedback with each key press. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Smoothie Silver may be the better option, while the HMX Twilight caters to those who enjoy a heftier feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch produces a thocky sound that can be both satisfying and immersive, while its overall smoothness contributes to a pleasant auditory experience during typing. The HMX Twilight switch, on the other hand, features a quieter sound profile due to its extended travel distance, which results in a less pronounced clack compared to the Gateron switch. The inherent characteristics of both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard they are used in and the type of keycaps, but the Smoothie Silver is generally noted for a more resonant, thocky output, while the Twilight maintains a subtler sound signature.

When it comes to feel, the Smoothie Silver switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light actuation, making it very responsive and easy to type on, ideal for rapid typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Twilight boasts a longer travel distance of 3.85mm, which may provide a slightly different typing experience with a more deliberate stroke needed to bottom out or actuate. This extended travel may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback, even if it requires a bit more force than the exceptionally light Smoothie Silver.

Overall, while both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX Twilight linear switches offer unique attributes tailored to different preferences, the Smoothie Silver impresses with its smoothness and thocky sound, making it a great choice for those seeking speed and auditory satisfaction. Conversely, the HMX Twilight, with its longer travel and quieter output, caters to users who prefer a subtler and potentially more controlled experience. Depending on the user's typing style and preference for sound, both switches can deliver a satisfying experience, but they each possess distinct qualities that may sway one's choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for tactile feedback, actuation speed, and sound profile. If you prioritize an incredibly smooth and fast typing experience, the Smoothie Silver might be your ideal option. Its feather-light touch and short travel distance make it perfect for gaming or rapid typing, where quick actuation is crucial. You’ll enjoy the thocky sound that adds a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more resistance and a noticeable tactile feel during your typing sessions, the HMX Twilight is a great choice. With its extended travel distance and slightly heavier bottom-out force, it provides a balanced experience that accommodates both typing and gaming, all while delivering a somewhat quieter performance characteristic of HMX switches. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs and preferences—speed and smoothness versus a more traditional typing feel and a mild auditory profile.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more