Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, users often find themselves torn between linear and tactile options. On one hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver offers a lightning-fast actuation with its short travel distance and thocky sound, making it a favorite among gamers and fast typists. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx provides a luxurious typing experience with its sharp tactile bump and refined sound profile, appealing to those who prioritize a satisfying typing feel. While the Smoothie Silver excels in smoothness and lightness, the U4Tx offers a blend of deep, resonant thocks and quiet keystrokes. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx both have unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver creates a pleasing and deep sound that is relatively more muted, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both materials aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their sound profiles, but the Smoothie Silver might offer a slightly quieter typing experience compared to the U4Tx.
In terms of the bottom housing, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver and the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx both aim to enhance the overall sound profile of the switches. The POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver creates a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both materials play a role in the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, despite having different housing materials, both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The POM and Gazzew blend materials each bring their own qualities to the switches, whether it be creating a deep and rich sound profile or a more muted and pleasing sound. These differences in housing materials give users the option to choose a switch based on their preference for sound and typing feel, with both switches offering a similar level of quality and satisfaction in typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, the actuation force of the Smoothie Silver is 45 grams, while the U4Tx has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the U4Tx is 62.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unavailable. In terms of weight, the Smoothie Silver is lighter with its actuation force of 45 grams compared to the U4Tx's bottom out force of 62.5 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Smoothie Silver makes it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the U4Tx provides a more substantial typing experience. It is important to consider these factors when choosing a switch based on personal preference for typing feel and keypress force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Smoothie Silver. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular among users looking for quicker key response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference - those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance may opt for the U4Tx, while those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may choose the Smoothie Silver. Overall, both switches offer a relatively similar typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may be a deciding factor for some users.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for having a thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience with a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a cleaner, refined sound profile that combines a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. The U4Tx switches deliver a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile, thanks to their unique design.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and short travel distance, providing a lightning-fast actuation that is perfect for quick typing or gaming. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a sharp and distinct tactile bump with each keypress, giving users a high feedback intensity that is crisp and prominent. This ensures that every keystroke is satisfying and precise, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different sound and feel qualities, both provide excellent performance in their respective categories. Those who prefer a linear switch with a thocky sound and smooth actuation may lean towards the Smoothie Silver, while individuals looking for a tactile switch with a cleaner sound profile and sharp feedback intensity may prefer the U4Tx. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fast and smooth typing experience with a feather-light touch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer lightning-fast actuation and a thocky sound that is unparalleled in smoothness. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined and satisfying tactile feedback with a cleaner sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be the better option. With a sharp tactile bump and a luxurious typing experience that combines deep "thock" bottoming out with whisper-quiet topping out, the U4Tx switches provide a satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Smoothie Silver and the U4Tx will depend on your preference for linear vs. tactile switches and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
